WebAIM - Web Accessibility In Mind

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Re: Popup windows and JAWS

for

From: ckrugman
Date: Oct 28, 2009 11:25AM

This is a valid point. As a screen reader user I find this being too much
information that is unnecessary. The browser settings can be set
accordingly.
Chuck
----- Original Message -----
From: "Simius Puer" < <EMAIL REMOVED> >
To: "WebAIM Discussion List" < <EMAIL REMOVED> >
Sent: Wednesday, October 28, 2009 3:02 AM
Subject: Re: [WebAIM] Popup windows and JAWS


...or simply don't open new windows in the first place - it's a dreadful
practice!!

The "opens in a new window" title text added to a link only helps screen
readers. Most sighted users never see the title text on a link as it takes
a moment or two before it appears - usually long after they have already
clicked. Yes, you can use an icon to indicate a new window, but that can be
equally as confusing (and not always visually pleasing).

This is not just a question of accessibility but one of usability. I know
many people representing a wide age and ability range (all without any
significant disabilities) who get very confused, or annoyed, by new windows
or tabs opening without their permission. I've seen people walk away from
making purchases or using information sources simply because of this reason.

At the end of the day, if the user wants to open links in a new window they
can choose to do so themselves. Forcing their browser to behave as you want
it to is impolite, confusing and a poor user experience.

Anyone working with XHTML Strict will also discover that target="_blank" is
depreciated for this very reason (and just because you can do a hack-around
using JavaScript doesn't mean that you should).