Complex image
Definition
A complex image is a visual that combines multiple graphic formats or detailed data and cannot be fully communicated through a short alternative text description. This can include graphs, charts, diagrams, maps, and infographics. Complex images should be avoided when a simpler visual or a text‑based presentation can communicate the same information clearly and accessibly.
Related Terms
hybrid image, group of images, collage, composite image, photo collage
Example Image
Writing Alternative Text
Start with a brief alt description that identifies the image and points people to a full explanation. Then, provide a text or HTML version that describes every visual or data element. This longer description can appear on the same page or on a separate page, and you can link to it in several ways, such as placing it in a figure with a figcaption, using the longdesc attribute along with a visible link, or connecting the image to on‑page text with ARIA. If the image includes a lot of data, include a labeled table with the numerical values, and make sure any visual cues (such as colors, icons, or symbols) are explained. For additional information, see Complex Images from the Web Accessibility Initiative. Link: https://www.w3.org/WAI/tutorials/images/complex/
Example Alt Text
"Six-panel dashboard analyzing Weibo travel data among Kunming, Dali and Lijiang: a daily/hourly activity timeline; a scatter plot of time versus geographic distance colored by post counts; a circular map showing directional flows between the three cities; paired flow diagrams linking origins to destinations; stacked histograms comparing location-pair distributions; and a settings panel with adjustable parameters and a color legend."