Ask users forInformation on a document

Using guidance images can help users to understand a complex message, show a user how to perform an action or guide a user to complete a task.

When to use this pattern

Only use guidance images to enhance the information being conveyed, when research indicates a real user need. Used correctly, guidance images can help users understand:

• complex guidance when completing a task
• how to perform an action
• what information you’re asking from them
• where to find specific contextual information, such as a reference number on a document or the relevant side of an identity document

When not to use this pattern

Do not use guidance images:

• as decoration
• when there is no real user need

How it works

If the image represents something physical, such as a document, you should use the aspect ratio of that object. Follow our guidance on the use of images.

The examples above have been used in public-facing services.

Accessibility

All images must have an alternative text description that describes its meaning. See the images guidance for more information.

If your service uses this pattern, let us know of any insights you have on accessibility considerations.

Research

This pattern is used by:

• EU settlement account recovery
• Generic identity verification
• Update your EU settlement scheme details
• Refugee integration loan
• Registered traveller
• Passport renewals

Research has shown that guidance images can help to guide a user through a sequence of steps and clarify what information is required from them. It has been shown to work well when representing something physical, such as a letter or an ID document, to help point users to a specific area of it.

Help us improve this pattern

This pattern needs improving. We need evidence about:

• how to write for this pattern

To contribute, add your thoughts and research findings to our GitHub discussion, or follow our contribute guidance.