1.3.5: Identify Input Purpose
The Identify Input Purpose guideline requires web pages to clearly specify the purpose of input fields, particularly those collecting personal information. This ensures that assistive technologies can provide appropriate suggestions and enhancements for users with disabilities, enhancing their interaction with web forms.
Importance of 1.3.5: Identify Input Purpose Success Criterion
Proper identification of input purposes is crucial for accessibility as it allows users with disabilities to understand the context and purpose of each input field. This helps in reducing errors, improving efficiency, and enhancing user experience. It also ensures compliance with accessibility standards, promoting inclusivity and equal access to digital content. Moreover, it aids in the seamless interaction of assistive technologies with web forms, ensuring that users receive accurate and relevant suggestions. This not only improves usability but also fosters a more user-friendly environment for all individuals.
Primary Use Cases and Requirements Under Guideline 1.3.5: Identify Input Purpose (Level AA)
Screen Reader Users
Scenario: A user with visual impairments relies on a screen reader to navigate web forms.
Example: An online registration form where each input field has a clear label and purpose, such as "First Name," "Email Address," etc. The screen reader announces the purpose of each input field, making it easier for the user to complete the form accurately.
Implementation:
<label for="fname">First Name</label>
<input type="text" id="fname" name="fname" autocomplete="given-name">
Elderly Users
Scenario: An elderly user may have difficulty remembering what information is required in each field.
Example: A checkout form that uses clear labels and input purposes to guide the user through the process. This reduces cognitive load and helps the user fill out the form with confidence.
Implementation:
<label for="email">Email Address</label>
<input type="email" id="email" name="email" aria-labelledby="email-label" autocomplete="email">
Mobile Users
Scenario: A user on a mobile device benefits from autofill and input suggestions.
Example: A login form where the username and password fields are clearly identified, allowing the device to suggest stored credentials. This enhances usability and speeds up the login process.
Implementation:
<label for="username">Username</label>
<input type="text" id="username" name="username" autocomplete="username">
People with Cognitive Disabilities
Scenario: A user with cognitive disabilities may struggle with understanding the purpose of each input field.
Example: An employment application form with descriptive labels and input purposes, such as "Full Name," "Contact Number," "Email Address," etc., helps the user understand what information is required.
Implementation:
<label for="fullname">Full Name</label>
<input type="text" id="fullname" name="fullname" autocomplete="name">
International Users
Scenario: Users from different countries may need to fill out forms with varying data formats and field names.
Example: A registration form that uses globally recognized input purposes like "Street Address," "City," "Postal Code," and "Country" to ensure users understand what information is needed, regardless of their location.
Implementation:
<label for="country">Country</label>
<input type="text" id="country" name="country" autocomplete="country">