Long-form report design & accessible PDFs

Complex information deserves clear communication.

Neglia Design specializes in designing long-form reports, publications, and accessible PDFs for organizations with complex information to communicate.

We combine structure, visual hierarchy, consistency, and accessibility from the very beginning of every project. The result is a publication that is easier to read and navigate, works across digital and printed formats, and can be delivered as a PDF/UA-compliant accessible PDF.

Planning a long-form publication? We’d love to discuss your project.

More than graphic design

Designing a 150-page report is very different from designing a brochure.

Long-form publications involve complex content, multiple contributors, changing drafts, charts, tables, recurring elements, accessibility requirements, and production deadlines. Success depends on more than attractive page layouts—it requires a carefully planned publication system.

We organize information so readers can quickly understand the document, move confidently between sections, and find the information they need. Behind the scenes, we build flexible design systems that help keep large publications accurate, consistent, and easier to update.

The result is a publication that looks professional, communicates clearly and remains manageable throughout production and future revisions.

Long-form design with accessibility built in

Accessible publications work best when accessibility is considered throughout the design process. We plan the structure, hierarchy, navigation, tables, images, links, and recurring content, so the document works visually while providing a strong foundation for the final accessible PDF.

Once the content and design are approved, we prepare and test the PDF against the accessibility requirements established for the project, which may include PDF/UA compliance and applicable AODA and WCAG requirements.

This integrated approach creates a publication that communicates clearly for all readers while also working effectively with screen readers and other assistive technologies.

Publications we design

Our team regularly designs:

  • Annual Reports
  • Research Reports
  • Strategic Plans
  • Government Reports
  • Environmental Reports
  • Policy and Procedure Manuals
  • Employee Handbooks
  • Training Guides
  • Educational Resources
  • Technical Publications
  • Accessibility Reports
  • English, French and Bilingual Publications

Whether the publication is produced once, updated annually or forms part of a larger series, we build a system that supports both the current project and future editions.

Complex information made easier to understand

Large publications often include charts, tables, diagrams, and other technical information. We design these elements to improve clarity and help readers quickly understand key messages while supporting the accessibility requirements of the final publication.

Why organizations choose Neglia Design

For nearly 40 years, we’ve helped organizations communicate complex information through well-designed publications.

Clients value our ability to bring together strategy, visual communication, and technical production into a single integrated process.

When you work with Neglia Design, you benefit from:

  • Nearly four decades of publication design experience
  • Expertise in complex, information-rich documents
  • Accessibility integrated into the design process
  • Experience with bilingual and multilingual publications
  • Professional production for both print and digital distribution
  • One experienced team from concept through final delivery

Information-rich reference books for Carson Dunlop

Designed for digital and print

We plan digital and printed editions together while accounting for the different requirements of each format. Digital publications may include bookmarks, linked navigation, descriptive hyperlinks, and accessibility features, while printed editions are prepared for the intended production and physical use.

Whether the final publication is distributed digitally, printed, or produced in both formats, the design remains clear, consistent, and appropriate for how readers will use it.

Learn more about long-form document design

This page provides an overview of our publication design services.

If you’d like to understand the thinking behind successful long-form publications—including document hierarchy, visual systems, accessibility planning and production best practices—read our in-depth article: Long documents require more than good design.


FAQ

What types of long-form documents do you design?

We design annual reports, research and environmental publications, government and corporate reports, strategic plans, policy manuals, employee handbooks, training materials, accessibility reports, and other complex publications for digital and printed use.

Can you design our publication to be PDF/UA compliant?

Yes. We consider accessibility throughout the design process and prepare the approved PDF in accordance with the project’s requirements. These may include PDF/UA compliance and applicable AODA and WCAG requirements.

When should we involve Neglia Design?

Most clients come to us with a completed or nearly completed manuscript, and that works well. We can begin once the content is approved and ready for design. When there is flexibility to involve us earlier, we can also help identify accessibility, navigation, translation, and production considerations before layout begins.

Can you update an existing publication?

Yes. We can assess and redesign an existing publication when a new accessible edition is required. Our focus is on complete publication design and accessible PDF production, rather than on standalone PDF remediation.

Can you produce bilingual publications?

Yes. We design English-, French-, bilingual-, and multilingual publications. Language requirements are considered early because they can affect page length, navigation, tables, charts, and the overall document system.


Let’s Create a Publication That Works for Every Reader

Your publication represents significant expertise and investment. We help ensure that work is presented clearly, professionally and accessibly—creating a document that’s easier to read, easier to navigate and built to stand the test of time.

Contact Neglia Design to discuss your next long-form report, publication or accessible PDF.