Color Usage Documentation | mysimulator.uk

Map colors to semantics and contexts so teams apply them consistently

Define semantic tokens: brand.primary, brand.secondary, accent, success, warning, error, info, surface, border, text (primary/secondary/muted), overlay, scrim. Map each to base tokens for light/dark.

Navigation & CTAs: brand primary.

Data viz: rotate through primaries then secondaries; avoid semantic co

Feedback: use semantic success/error/warning/info only for status.

Backgrounds: neutral/surface tokens; keep text tokens aligned to ensure contrast.

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Do: Use semantic tokens, test contrast, keep saturation balanced, limi

Don’t: Use brand colors for destructive actions; place text on images without scrims; mix too many hues in one view; rely on color alone for meaning.

Define chart palettes (primary series, secondary series, high-contrast variant). Add rules for backgrounds, gridlines, and annotations. Provide patterns/markers for color-blind safety. Include semantic overlays for thresholds cautiously.

Frequently asked questions

What are the key considerations when ensuring accessibility through color usage?

Accessibility & Contrast

How should contrast ratios be enforced to meet accessibility standards, specifically for text and UI elements?

Link to contrast matrix; enforce AA for text/UI, 3:1 for borders and focus rings. Document approved combinations per surface. Ensure color-independent cues for status (icons, text).

What processes should be followed regarding the governance and delivery of color usage documentation?

Delivery & Governance

How should color usage documentation be maintained and shared across design and development teams, including Figma and code repositories?

Publish usage docs in Figma and code. Provide examples/snippets and a living gallery of approved patterns. Version color changes with changelog and announce to designers/devs.

▶ Try it live

Everything above runs in your browser — open Hash Function Avalanche Visualizer and change the parameters while it is running. Nothing is installed, nothing is uploaded, the whole model lives in one tab.

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