Getting tactile diagrams at University is often not as easy as it should be. However, the Open University has an excellent reputation for accessibility, and has developed robust processes for students to request diagrams and for those diagrams to be designed and produced.



This session was presented jointly by Jeff Bashton, former Visual Impairment Adviser at the Open University; and Andrew Whitehead, Graphics Media Developer within the OU’s Learner and Discovery Services. It briefly outlined what the Open University is, before explaining what gave rise to the tactile diagrams initiative and how it was developed.



Andrew illustrated how diagrams are prioritised, and described the tools and techniques he uses to design and produce them. We learnt how these techniques are applied to standard graphs and charts, as well as more complex images such as a cross-section of part of the brain!



If you are currently studying at University, or thinking of starting a University course soon, this session serves as a case study of how Universities can provide effective support in this area. We gave details of DSA funding models at the end of the presentation.



If you are interested in tactile diagrams in general, this session offered valuable insights into the tools and techniques available and the reasons for choosing them.



Decision Tree: Deciding if a Tactile Diagram is Necessary




Start



Is the information a repeat of the facts?
Yes: go to 5.
No: go to 3.



Would the information be more meaningful in text form?
Yes: go to 6.
No: go to 4.
Return to 2.



Does the graphic require the reader to use visual discrimination or visual perception?
Yes: go to 7.
No: go to 8.
Return to 3.



Do not produce graphic.
Return to 2.



Create a figure description. Do not produce a graphic.
Return to 3.



Modify the graphic.
Return to 4.



Is the actual object unavailable, too small, too large, or too dangerous to examine by touch and perceived details?
Yes: go to 11.
No: go to 9.
Return to 4.



Does the reader need the information from a map, figure or graph to complete an assessment/task or to participate in discussions and/or answer questions?
Yes: go to 11.
No: go to 10.
Return to 8.



Do not produce graphic.
Return to 9.



Produce graphic.
Return to 8.
Return to 9.




Tactile Diagram Transcribers




A2I



All Formats



Pia



RNIB Business Services



RNIB Personal Transcription Services



Scottish Braille Press



Swansea University Transcription Centre



University of Leeds Equality and Inclusion Unit




Sources of Tactile Diagrams




RNIB Bookshare - Accessible Images



APH Tactile Graphic Image Library (TGIL)



National Braille Press (NBP)



Tactile Images and Maps from the Lighthouse for the Blind, San Francisco




Sources of Swell Paper and Heat Fusers




HumanWare Swell Form Machine



Sight and Sound PIAF Tactile Image Printer



HumanWare Swell Touch Markers



HumanWare Swell Touch Paper A4 100 sheets



HumanWare Swell Touch Paper A3 100 sheets



Sight and Sound PIAF Swell Paper



Braillists Consumables page




Other Links of Interest




Guidelines and Standards for Tactile Graphics from the Braille Authority of North America (BANA)



Inkscape



Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment



Tactile Reading Conference 2025



Visio Tactual Profile and Feel Free

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