One of the core principles of digital accessibility is understandability. If users can’t predict how a website will operate, you’ve probably made a design mistake — and you may be introducing barriers for people with disabilities.
Major changes in content can impact understandability. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) refers to these major changes as changes of context, rather than changes of content; not all content changes are significant enough to create a potential issue.
For instance, if your website has a dynamic menu with links, that’s a change of content, but it’s not a change of context. It’s a relatively minor change, and most users will understand why the change occurred.
A change in context is more substantial and might affect one of the following:
Rather than focusing on the strict definition of a “change of context,” think about the user. You don’t want to take control from users unless they understand what’s happening — that’s basic web design. If a change of context occurs without the user’s awareness or permission, the user might be disoriented or confused.
Related: What Are the Four Major Categories of Accessibility?
Unfortunately, many websites try to take too much control over the user experience. Selecting a page from a drop-down menu might automatically navigate to that page, or tapping a checkbox might activate a pop-up window.
For users who don’t have disabilities, this is frustrating — and for people that use assistive technologies, unexpected changes of context can prevent them from operating the website. If you’re browsing with a screen reader and a new window pops up without warning, you might not understand how to find the content you need.
WCAG addresses this in WCAG 2.1 Success Criterion (SC) 3.2.2, “On Input,” which reads:
“Changing the setting of any user interface component does not automatically cause a change of context unless the user has been advised of the behavior before using the component.”
WCAG 2.1 SC 3.2.1, “On Focus,” is another relevant requirement:
“When any user interface component receives focus, it does not initiate a change of context.”
To fulfill these criteria, you’ll simply need to avoid changes of context unless it’s clear that the change will occur as a response to the user’s behavior. If possible, you should also give them a way to control major changes.
Some quick examples:
Related: Accessibility Tips: Be Cautious When Using Autofocus
Most web designers understand the importance of giving users control, but poor markup or code can make your content unpredictable. Third-party widgets may also create keyboard traps or unexpected changes of context, so it’s important to test your website carefully.
A simple way to test for keyboard accessibility: Unplug your mouse (or, at least, set it to the side). Use the Tab and Shift-Tab commands to browse through your content, paying close attention to forms and interactive controls.
This is also a great time to make sure that your keyboard focus indicator remains visible when browsing through content. For more detailed guidance, read: Give Yourself an Accessibility Test: Don't Use a Mouse.
While a quick keyboard test can highlight opportunities for improvements, it’s a good idea to have a regular testing strategy. Auditing your content against WCAG helps you provide a better experience for all visitors, including keyboard users, screen reader users, and people who don’t have disabilities.
To learn more, get started with a free automated website analysis or download our free eBook: The Ultimate Guide to Web Accessibility.