Step by Step Guide for Creating Accessible Forms

Creating online forms is a common practice for gathering user information and feedback. However, it's crucial to ensure these forms are accessible to all individuals. Website accessibility is a key aspect of inclusive design, and by creating accessible forms, you contribute to making the online experience equitable for everyone.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of creating forms, keeping in mind the principles of digital accessibility. Additionally, we'll discuss the importance of accessibility services, accessible videos, document remediation, and finding the right accessibility service provider to assist you in this journey.

Understanding Digital Forms Accessibility

Many websites, applications, and online services depend heavily on forms. They are used for many things, including submitting the official documents, signing up for products or services, subscribing to newsletters, registering for events, making purchases, and responding to surveys. However, filling out documents can be difficult and irritating for those with impairments. Several obstacles can impede people with disabilities from effectively completing forms, such as poor instructions and complex layouts.

Website accessibility has become a crucial aspect of designing and developing online platforms. Assuring that everyone, including individuals with disabilities, can access and interact with your content is not only a legal condition but also a moral obligation. One significant component of creating an inclusive digital experience is designing accessible forms.

Why do Accessible Forms Matter?

Before we delve into the steps, let's understand why accessible forms are important. Imagine a visually impaired user attempting to fill out a form without proper structure or alternative text for form elements. It's an incredibly frustrating experience that could lead to the abandonment of the process altogether. By making your forms accessible, you open up your website to a wider audience and improve user satisfaction, engagement, and conversion rates.

Steps to Create Accessible Forms

Accessible forms are designed to be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users, including those with disabilities. It involves considering screen readers, keyboard navigation, color contrast, and clear instructions. Here are some steps to help you create accessible forms:

1. Choose a Clear and Concise Layout

Start by selecting a simple layout for your form. Use headings, labels, and appropriate spacing to structure the form. It will help users navigate through the form more easily.

• Structure your form using semantic HTML elements (form, fieldset, legend).
• Arrange form fields logically, following the sequence of information flow. 

2. Use Descriptive Labels

Labels are crucial for form fields. They provide context and instructions for users to understand what information is required. Ensure that each label is associated with its corresponding input field using the for attribute in HTML.

• For each form field, provide a label element that clearly describes the purpose of the field.
• Use the for attribute to link the label with its corresponding input using the id of the input element.

3. Provide Placeholder Text Thoughtfully

While placeholder text can offer hints about the required input, it's not a label substitute. Users with visual impairments might not be able to see placeholder text, so always include explicit labels.

• Use placeholder text to offer supplementary guidance but avoid using it as a label substitute.
• Ensure that placeholder text doesn't disappear when users start typing.

4. Implement Proper Fieldset and Legend Elements

Use the fieldset and legend elements to clearly structure grouped or related form fields. It is particularly important for longer forms with multiple sections.

• For related groups of fields, use the fieldset element to group them.
• Include an legend element within the fieldset to concisely and informally describe the field group.

5. Optimize for Keyboard Navigation

Ensure that users can navigate through the form using only the keyboard. It is vital for individuals who cannot use a mouse. Test tab order and focus styles to guarantee a seamless keyboard experience.

• Ensure that all form elements, buttons, and links are keyboard focusable.
• Establish a logical tab order using the tab index attribute through the form elements.
• Avoid using elements that can't receive focus, like div or span, as interactive elements.

6. Provide Clear and Concise Instructions

Include concise instructions at the beginning of the form. Use plain language and keep sentences short. If there are any specific formatting requirements, mention them.

• At the beginning of the form, provide concise instructions that guide users through the form-filling process.
• Consider the needs of all users, including those who might rely on screen readers or other assistive technologies.

7. Ensure Color Contrast

Maintain a sufficient color contrast between the text and background to aid users with visual impairments. Use tools to check and adjust contrast ratios according to accessibility guidelines.

• Choose color combinations that offer sufficient contrast between text and background.
• Color should not be the sole means of conveying information; use text labels and other cues.

Read Also: Basics of Color Contrast in Web Accessibility

8. Choose Accessible Input Types

Select the appropriate input types for each field. For instance, use radio buttons for exclusive choices, checkboxes for multiple selections, and select lists for dropdowns. It enhances usability for screen reader users.

• Select appropriate input types (type text, type email, etc.) to trigger appropriate keyboards on different devices.
• Use select and textarea elements when they better suit user input.

9. Add Error Messages and Validation

When users make errors while filling out the form, provide clear error messages near the problematic field. Assistive technologies should be able to detect and announce these errors.

• Implement form validation to provide real-time feedback on incorrect or missing input.
• Include descriptive error messages explaining the issue and how to correct it.

10. Test with Assistive Technologies

Regularly test your form with screen readers and other assistive technologies to identify and rectify accessibility issues. This iterative process is essential for refining your form's accessibility.

• Regularly test your form using screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies.
• Address any issues that arise during testing to ensure a smooth experience for all users.

Read Also: Core Benefits & Features of Automated Accessibility Testing

Advantages of Designing Accessible Forms

1. Improved usability: Accessible forms make it simpler for all users to complete the forms without difficulty or frustration, enhancing the website's or application's usability.
2. Better user experience: Accessible forms give users with disabilities a better experience, enabling them to carry out tasks quickly and independently. For example,
3. Increased conversions: By ensuring users can complete the form quickly and properly, accessible forms can increase conversions and lower form abandonment rates.

The Importance of Accessibility Services

Creating accessible forms is just one aspect of overall website accessibility. To ensure that your entire website is inclusive, consider employing the services of a professional website accessibility service provider, such as

Video Accessible

Videos are an integral part of modern web content. Ensuring that video accessibility involves providing captions, audio descriptions, and transcripts. It makes video content usable for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or blind.

Document Remediation

PDF documents are commonly used for sharing information. However, they can pose accessibility challenges. PDF accessibility or remediation involves modifying PDFs to ensure compatibility with screen readers and other assistive technologies.

Consultation and Audits

Website accessibility service providers offer consultations and audits to assess your website's current level of accessibility. They identify issues and provide recommendations for improvement, helping you achieve compliance with accessibility standards such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).

Ongoing Maintenance

Accessibility is not a one-time task; it requires continuous attention. Accessibility service providers can help you maintain compliance over time by monitoring your website, conducting regular audits, and implementing necessary updates.

Finding the Right Accessibility Service Provider

Selecting the right accessibility service provider is crucial for achieving a truly inclusive digital presence. Consider the following factors when choosing a provider:

Expertise:

Look for providers with a strong track record in web accessibility. Check their experience, certifications, and client testimonials.

Range of Services:

Choose a provider that offers a comprehensive suite of website accessibility services, including website audits, remediation, training, and ongoing support.

Custom Solutions:

Every website is unique. Ensure the provider can tailor their services to meet your specific accessibility needs.

Compliance Knowledge:

The chosen provider should be well-versed in accessibility standards and guidelines, such as WCAG, ADA, and Section 508.

Collaboration:

Effective communication and collaboration are essential. Find a provider willing to work closely with your team to implement accessibility solutions.

Long-Term Support:

Accessibility is an ongoing commitment. Select a provider that offers ongoing support to ensure your website remains accessible as technologies evolve.

Conclusion

Creating accessible forms is integral to designing an inclusive online experience. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can ensure that your forms are user-friendly for everyone. Remember that website accessibility goes beyond forms; it includes videos, PDFs, and overall website design. Engaging with a reputable digital accessibility service provider can help you address these broader accessibility challenges, making your website a welcoming space for all users, regardless of their abilities. Embrace the principles of digital accessibility, and contribute to a more inclusive online world.