Whether you’re running a dental office or an e-commerce retailer, ensuring proper form accessibility allows individuals with disabilities to interact more effectively with your website. Either stand-alone or using a combination of assistive technologies, such as screen readers and keyboard-only navigation, adopting best practices like clear and concise labels for accessible forms is essential for processing information.
With around 15% of the world living with a partial or total disability, now is an excellent time to learn about form accessibility best practices.
Continue reading to discover the importance of form accessibility, including its definition, significance, impact on web design, and user experience, as well as how tools like Accessibly can help your website meet ADA and WCAG compliance standards.
What is Form Accessibility?
Accessibility refers to the practice of designing and coding web forms that enable individuals with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments to interact more effectively with them.
For example, websites could employ assistive technologies like screen readers to announce form fields, apply keyboard navigation to navigate form elements, and apply high-contrast texts, form input field/labels, and error messages for the visually-impaired.
For example, a job application form with poor form accessibility (such as non-labeled fields or low-contrast images) may prevent users from applying for the role. Likewise, an online order form without proper error messages could lower average session time and increase bounce rates, leading to dropped revenue and fewer orders.
Plus, an accessible form helps to promote overall usability for everyone. By ensuring compatibility with assistive technologies, intuitive navigation, and clear, concise layouts, you can expect conversions to increase, errors to be reduced, and more.
Another benefit of form validation is creating a truly digital-inclusive environment. By maintaining an accessible design, organizations demonstrate to users a commitment to diversity and equity, enhancing their brand reputation, revenue, and other key performance indicators that contribute to business strength.
Best Practices for Form Accessibility
Here are several best practices for form/input form field accessibility that you can incorporate into your website:
Using Clear and Concise Labels
All form fields should use clear and concise labels to prevent cognitive overload. Try to avoid using placeholder text and use explicitly associated labels, which allow users to understand what each field stands for, making it straightforward to distinguish between inputs. Failure to use clear and concise labels could cause visually-impaired users using screen readers, such as VoiceOver, to miss the correct field description, ultimately forcing them to leave the page.
Providing Error Messages and Validations
Another area to pay attention to regarding form accessibility is giving error messages and validations. We recommend using inline error messages, applying ‘aria-describedby’ to correct errors, and relying on text rather than simply color, such as the ultra-popular red border, to indicate mistakes. Using these principles ensures that screen readers understand the error in real-time, providing instant feedback.
In short, providing error messages and validations lowers your bounce rate on the site and prevents users from abandoning the form entirely.
Keyboard Accessibility
All online forms should be easily navigable without requiring a mouse, so that individuals with cognitive and mobility impairments can scroll in the same way as those without disabilities. Therefore, websites must effectively utilize the tab and arrow keys to navigate through elements, such as transitioning from a first name to a last name on an address form. We also highly recommend using voice-to-text tools to provide instructions, such as Dragon NaturallySpeaking and Accessibly, to ensure compliance in this area.
Apply the Right Color Contrast
Another critical aspect of creating accessible forms is using the right color contrast.
According to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, the minimum contrast ratio for standard text should be 4.5:1, whereas large text should have at least a 3:1 ratio. One of the best ways to ensure contrast is by using contrast-checking tools, such as WebAIM’s Contrast Checker, which is particularly helpful for individuals with visual impairments, especially those with color blindness.
Utilizing ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) Roles and Properties
Compatible with assistive technologies, the use of ARIA roles and properties allows screen readers to discern what elements on a web page are for. It helps connect fields to a series of prompts or error messages, providing additional context. Remember, ARIA does not replace semantic HTML; rather, it enhances the content on the page with additional, helpful information.
Can Support Multiple Input Methods
Form accessibility is all about allowing users to choose the input method that works best for them. A sound accessible form can be managed using your keyboard, mouse, or even voice input.
For example, individuals with cognitive impairments can benefit from voice-to-text functionality, along with touch-friendly methods for those with limited dexterity. Providing multiple input options improves overall satisfaction and completion rates.
Proper Use of Fieldsets and Legends
Two popular elements include ‘fieldset’ and ‘legend’, which work very well with forms that have multiple sections. These tags enable forms to organize related inputs in a logical manner, which is especially useful for screen reader users, making it easier for them to scan and complete complex forms.
Benefits of Accessible Forms
Here are six benefits of an accessible form:
Improved User Experience
By providing clear guidance and consistent navigation, users have an easier time following step-by-step instructions and finding error messages quickly. Additionally, an accessible site features real-time validation and confirmation messages that inform users they’re on track to complete their intended task.
For example, breaking large chunks of information into smaller paragraphs for those with cognitive disabilities (while using plain language) assists individuals with mental disabilities. At the same time, visually-impaired users can rely on screen readers to navigate form input labels, text, and fields more easily when correct semantic HTML and ARIA protocols are in place.
One of the best examples of a stellar UI is Apple’s online store. There are several accessibility upgrades that enable individuals with disabilities to shine, including the proper use of ARIA labels, distinguishable error messages, and proper structure, which allow users to purchase their new iPhones with ease. Its checkout process is especially notable, known for its proper heading hierarchy and labels. This is especially useful for those with cognitive disabilities, helping to reduce cognitive load for even faster purchases. By making accessibility a core focus, Apple is demonstrating its commitment to inclusive principles.
Achieving Compliance
Accessible forms help achieve compliance with accessibility standards. In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies, while in Canada, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is in effect, along with WCAG guidelines.
Another example of a website meeting ADA compliance is Target. After a 2006 lawsuit by the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), citing inability to access product pages and checkout forms, Target paid out a $6 million settlement (followed by NFB compliance monitoring for several years) and started introducing changes to its website, such as alternative text for images and properly labeled form fields. The company also conducted ongoing training for web developers to ensure they were up to date with the latest standards.
Remember, failure to create accessible forms can cause significant damage, including triggering accessibility lawsuits, tarnishing brand reputation, and falling behind in promoting accessibility in emerging technologies, such as voice interfaces and AR/VR.
Reach More People
The more accessible your form, the easier it is for those with visual, motor, and cognitive impairments to complete forms. For example, visually-impaired users can utilize screen reader technology instead of keyboard navigation, and clear, well-organized information can be provided for individuals with cognitive impairments (e.g., those with ADHD and dyslexia).
Improve Conversion Rates
A fourth benefit of creating accessible forms is improved conversion rates.
Poor labeling or low contrast can cause frustration, forcing users to abandon their purchase or avoid signing up for a newsletter. Additionally, accessible forms improve trust by demonstrating that a brand is reliable, encouraging users to return. Users are more likely to provide positive reviews and establish long-term loyalty, leading to repeat visits and increased revenue.
Improve Brand Reputation
Showing that you value inclusivity and are committed to serving all users builds goodwill among your website visitors and customers. Users understand that inclusivity is a crucial responsibility, so it’s a win when users recommend businesses based on accessibility.
Future-Proofing
By focusing on accessible forms, you’re also future-proofing your website by staying up-to-date with the latest accessible form practices. It will be much easier to adapt to future technologies, such as smart wearables and AR/VR platforms, which will reinvent the way your users interact with your website. Avoid expensive retrofits and keep your accessibility up to date today.
Tools and Resources for Testing Form Accessibility
Many tools on the market can help businesses test form accessibility to better meet WCAG and ADA guidelines.
Popular options include WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool), Axe Accessibility Checker, NVDA (Non-Visual Desktop Access) & VoiceOver, and Accessibly’s website accessibility overlay widget. These tools highlight accessibility issues on your forms, from a lack of radio buttons to improper aria attributes. Some, like Axe, can run automated accessibility tests and provide remediation steps with guidance.
Another useful tool is the Color Contrast Analyzer (CCA), which checks foreground and background colors for readability, especially useful for visually-impaired users or those with color blindness.
JAWS (Job Access With Speech), a Windows-based screen reader, allows visually-impaired users to navigate forms easily with readout labels and error messages. This tool is essential for testing accessibility thoroughly.
Lastly, Accessibly’s overlay can scan your entire website and identify form issues, including missing label tags or low-contrast text. It provides suggestions for inline remediation, showing how to structure ARIA error messages and place labels correctly. Plus, it is offering a 7-day free trial where you can test drive all features before committing to a monthly plan. Take advantage of it today!
Importance of Continuous Accessibility Checks
Accessibility audits are not a one-time event. Website elements are continually updated (e.g. discontinued radio buttons), requiring ongoing checks. Even small adjustments, like changing a color scheme or form field, can create incompatibility with screen readers or other assistive technologies. Frequent testing ensures accessibility is maintained.
Regular accessibility checks are now mandated as legal standards evolve. As new technologies emerge, WCAG guidelines are updated periodically. Failure to comply can result in reputational damage, lawsuits, and fines. Ongoing accessibility reviews ensure compliance and future-proof your website.
In short, creating accessible forms has an immeasurable impact on the overall user experience. They empower users, prevent litigation, and expand key performance indicators like reach and revenue. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about making every interaction with your brand meaningful and valuable. By providing accessible experiences, the better your business and brand reputation will be.
