The Chicago Lighthouse     

View this website (Note: Page will open in new browser window)

The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired is one of the oldest social service agencies in Chicago. Founded in 1906, it offers programs for children with multi-disabilities, job training and placement, a low vision clinic, and a manufacturing facility that boasts the nation's sole contract to supply clocks to the U.S. government. Helen Keller was a keynote speaker at the dedication of their new building in 1956, as well as a common visitor to the Lighthouse's annual dinners during the 1940s and 1950s. The Lighthouse is regarded as the most comprehensive agency of its kind in the Midwest and a model agency nationally.

When they decided to upgrade the face of their website, Eyetopia Design was chosen to provide the design. Unlike many websites we have created, The Chicago Lighthouse has unique needs when it comes to accessibility for vision-impaired users. Eyetopia responded with a design which maintains the usability for these persons, while at the same time is visually pleasing to those with unimpaired or slightly disadvantaged sight. Subtle background imaging was employed to enhance the display of the left navigation field in such a manner that it would not interfere with the usability of the site or be noticed by those with a vision impairment. The navigation links are large and easy-to-read. The ability to reverse the background colors and change the size of text was maintained, an important factor for those with a vision impairment. The ability to expand the width of the site to any size of browser window was also maintained. Secondary interfaces were provided for the Lighthouse staff which they could easily and quickly update with new information, so that they can maintain the site themselves. Overall the site is clear, easy to read and navigate, and is usable for both visually impaired and unimpaired visitors.

The secondary interface contains a sub-navigation bar, and is easy for Lighthouse staff to update. The website maintains the ability for users to change text size, font and background color.