Understanding SC 1.4.3 - application of contrast requirements to logos

Dear WCAG WG,

"Contrast (Minimum): Understanding 1.4.3" has an exception for logos but 
the current text is not terribly clear, especially as it mixes the 
requirement for providing alternative text with contrast requirements:

   "Stylized text, such as in corporate logos, should be treated
   in terms of its function on the page, which may or may not
   warrant including the content in the text alternative.
   Corporate visual guidelines beyond logo and logotype are not
   included in the exception."

 
http://www.w3.org/TR/UNDERSTANDING-WCAG20/visual-audio-contrast-contrast.html
   http://url.ie/e4hc

The last sentence quoted seems to imply that everything *not* beyond 
logo and logotype - i.e., the logo - actually qualifies for an exception 
from SC 1.4.3, but this message would be clearer if the text would just 
state:

"SC 1.4.3 does not apply to corporate logos. Logos are established as 
part of corporate or organizational histories. Their faithful 
reproduction is essential for the recognition of the entity represented."

...or similar - *if* that is the actual position of the WCAG working 
group. I believe that it is, but I am not certain. Please comment.

One may add a 'nice to have' statement that new organisations or those 
overhauling their corporate identity should strive to meet SC 1.4.3 (or 
even SC 1.4.6?) in the desgin of their corporate logos.

Regards,
Detlev

Received on Monday, 13 February 2012 10:53:21 UTC