Accessible online forms – the key to digital inclusion

Imagine that you want to fill out an application, subscribe to a newsletter or arrange an appointment online, but the form doesn’t work properly, the error messages don’t make any sense or you can’t seem to find the submit button. Would be frustrating, right? For many people with disabilities, this is often their day-to-day reality.

In our increasingly digital world, online forms are typically the first and most important point of contact between users and businesses. So, it is all the more important that these forms are designed to be accessible for all users – regardless of their physical, sensory or cognitive limitations. This is what digital accessibility is all about.

Why accessibility is more than just ‘nice to have’

Many countries have now introduced corresponding legislation that specifically requires businesses to ensure the accessibility of their digital services. The European standard EN 301 549, which is based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and the German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) are just two examples of this. But how can we be sure that online forms really have been designed to be accessible?

Key features for accessible online forms

1. Structure and layout – keep it simple!

A streamlined, logical structure forms the cornerstone of every accessible form. Avoid the use of nested layouts and complex designs. Instead, make sure that your form is clear, consistent and user-friendly. Make sure that the labels are clearly assigned to their respective input fields – this will help all of your users and not just people using screen readers.

2. Guide your users – keep them ‘on the same page’

No one wants to get cryptic error messages or vague instructions. Make sure that everything is clear and easy to understand, so that filling out the form is as easy as possible. Real-time validation and accurate error messages can help users to spot and correct mistakes before it’s too late. User-friendly options for correcting mistakes not only improve user satisfaction but also make it more likely that they will complete the form.

3. Technical implementation – access all areas

To be truly accessible, a form needs to

1. support easy navigation with a keyboard
2. be compatible with screen readers, to make content discoverable
3. use a high-contrast design with legible fonts that boost readability
4. be responsive and adapt automatically to fit a wide range of screen sizes

This ensures that all users will encounter no difficulties when filling out your form, regardless of their individual needs and requirements.

4. Test and improve – Rome wasn’t built in a day

Accessibility is a continuous process. Regular testing with the participation of people with different kinds of disabilities will help to identify and remove potential barriers.

What can accessibility do for your business?

Accessibility not only offers advantages for your users but also benefits your company in a number of ways:

1. Legal compliance: you minimise the risk of legal disputes.
2. Better reach: you can address new target markets.
3. Improved user experience: clear-cut structures improve the user experience for everyone.
4. Positive image: you demonstrate corporate citizenship.

How we are helping to improve digital inclusion

At Formcentric, we take accessibility seriously. Our forms are regularly updated to ensure they meet the latest standards:

1. Full keyboard control? Check!
2. Screen reader support? Naturally!
3. Adjustable contrast levels and font sizes? Of course!

We work with experts and the International Association of Accessibility Professionals to make improvements wherever and whenever we can.

Summary: accessibility is an investment in the future

In an inclusive digital world, accessible online forms are not merely ‘nice to have’ but in fact a must-have for your business. Accessible features also improve the user experience not only for people with disabilities but for all of your customers.

Ready to take the step towards greater digital inclusion? We’re here to help you!

Get started today with optimising your forms for accessibility and register for your free trial of Formcentric.