Forms

Forms are a fundamental tool for collecting information and interacting with users online. However, inaccessible forms can create barriers for individuals with disabilities, hindering their ability to participate fully. Here's a quick reference guide to creating accessible forms, with specific considerations for different form types:

General Tips for Accessible Forms

• Clear and concise language: Use simple and straightforward language throughout your forms.
• Consistent layout: Maintain a consistent layout and visual hierarchy to aid navigation and comprehension.
• Sufficient spacing: Provide adequate spacing between form elements to avoid crowding and improve readability.
• Error prevention: Design forms to minimize errors and provide clear instructions to guide users.
• Testing and feedback: Conduct thorough testing with assistive technologies and gather feedback from users with disabilities to ensure your forms are accessible and usable.

Microsoft Forms for Internal Audiences

• Use built-in accessibility features: Microsoft Forms offers built-in accessibility features like keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, and color contrast options. Leverage these features to enhance the accessibility of your forms.
• Provide clear instructions and labels: Use clear and concise language for instructions, questions, and labels. Avoid jargon and ensure that each form field has a descriptive label.
• Logical order and grouping: Arrange form fields in a logical order and use grouping or sections to organize related questions, improving navigation and comprehension.
• Error handling: Provide clear and informative error messages that help users identify and correct mistakes.

REDCap Forms for HIPAA Compliant Forms

• Prioritize accessibility in design: While REDCap offers flexibility, ensure accessibility is prioritized from the initial design phase. Consult accessibility guidelines and resources to guide your form creation process.
• Leverage REDCap's accessibility features: REDCap provides features like customizable field labels, skip logic, and branching logic, which can be utilized to enhance accessibility.
• Thorough testing: Rigorously test your REDCap forms with assistive technologies and diverse user groups to identify and address any accessibility barriers.

Custom HTML Forms

• Semantic HTML structure: Use semantic HTML elements to create a well-structured and accessible form.
  Examples: <fieldset></fieldset>, <label></label>, <input>, <button>
• ARIA attributes: Utilize ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) to provide additional context and information for assistive technologies.
• Keyboard navigation: Ensure all form elements can be navigated and interacted with using only a keyboard.
• Focus management: Implement proper focus management to guide users through the form and indicate which element is currently active.
• Client-side validation: Incorporate client-side validation to provide immediate feedback to users and help them correct errors before submitting the form.

PDF Forms (Not Recommended)

• Accessibility challenges: PDF forms present significant accessibility challenges due to their complexity and inconsistencies across different browsers and devices.
• Limited assistive technology support: Screen readers and other assistive technologies may struggle to interpret and interact with PDF forms effectively.
• Alternatives: Consider using HTML forms or other accessible form solutions whenever possible to ensure a seamless experience for all users.

By following these guidelines and considering the specific requirements of different form types, you can create accessible forms that are inclusive and user-friendly for everyone. Remember, accessibility is not an afterthought; it should be an integral part of your form creation process.

Remember: Accessibility is an ongoing commitment. Continuously evaluate and improve your forms to ensure they remain inclusive and accessible to all users.