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Re: Accessible Form Validation Errors

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From: Mike Moore
Date: Sep 3, 2004 8:31AM

"The question then is, can users of screen readers work with pop-ups and
other JS features. Not always, especially if the JS functions, such as
menus, require the use of a mouse. Pop-up alerts, such as those encountered
during form validation may not be problematic for screen reader users but I
would prefer someone with more experience to comment on that."

When using java-script it is necessary to make all features keyboard
accessible - not just for those on screen readers but for anyone who must
depend upon keyboard navigation, this includes people with motor/physical
disabilities as well. This is a requirement of both WCAG guidelines and sec
508.

Next turning to the question of pop-ups - unrequested pop-ups are very
disorienting for people using screen readers as well as those with cognative
disabilities. If the error message opens in a new window the user should be
warned that a new window will be opening - difficult to do in the context of
an error message - and then must have an easy method for closing the window.
If the error message "pops up" on the existing page then a screen reader
will start reading the item over again - this behavior is best tested using
a screen reader.

All client side error checking must be backed up with server side
verification. I prefer to complete error checking, client and server side,
once the form is completed and the submit button is activated. I then
provide the user feedback that indicates either successfull submission, or
an indication of specific errors which must be corrected prior to
resubmission. This provides a clear flow of action without any surprises to
the user. Testing with users using a variety of assistive technologies has
indicated that this method works well for everyone.

Mike