Designing a Variable Typeface for Dyslexia-Friendly Reading

Abstract

This paper presents the study, design and testing of Dixi, a variable typeface family developed to support readers with dyslexia. Dyslexia affects reading and writing processes, and can impact broader communication abilities, making the improvement of reading accessibility essential. The study analyses cognitive reading processes, symptoms of dyslexia and existing dyslexia-friendly typographic guidelines. A review of related studies indicates that while certain design features may enhance legibility, findings regarding specialised dyslexia typefaces remain inconsistent due to individual differences among readers. Based on these insights and user-centred considerations, the Dixi typeface family was developed and empirically tested. The results suggest that not all characteristics of existing dyslexia-friendly typefaces necessarily improve reading performance. Instead, highly legible sans-serif characteristics in character shape tend to yield stronger results. The variable nature of Dixi, allowing adjustment between simpler and more complex letterforms, enables individual adaptation to reader needs, representing its primary contribution.