Overview
This article is for university faculty, staff, and students to create and share accessible forms. It explains why forms may pose accessibility challenges and provides options to help create forms that work for everyone.
Making Forms Accessible
It is required that all digital content meet digital accessibility standards. Forms are often required for participation (e.g., surveys, registrations, course feedback). If a form is not accessible, it becomes a barrier to participation and can create compliance risks. Before sharing a form, always test for accessibility by using automatic checkers and manual review.
Accessible forms:
- Support screen readers and keyboard navigation
- Present clear, understandable questions
- Reduce errors and confusion
- Improve response rates and data quality
Recommended Form Solutions
IT Solutions can help you choose the best option for your needs and get you set up. Submit a ticket to request a consultation.
HTML forms provide the highest level of accessibility and flexibility when implemented correctly.
Best for:
- Web developers
- Department or program websites
- Public-facing forms
Microsoft Forms is generally accessible by default and easy to use.
Best for:
- Classroom surveys and quizzes
- Internal data collection
- Quick, simple forms with minimal customization
Qualtrics is a robust survey tool with strong accessibility capabilities.
Best for:
- Research surveys
- Complex logic or branching
- Institutional surveys
TeamDynamics (TDX) Forms
TeamDynamix forms are commonly used for service requests and internal workflows For help creating a TDX form, see Request Assistance with TeamDynnamix.
Best for:
- IT or service request submissions
- Internal university processes
- Structured intake forms tied to workflows
PDF Form Considerations
PDF forms can be difficult to use because many are not set up correctly, which can make them confusing or unusable for some people. They can also be hard to use on mobile devices and may require special software, creating extra barriers. However, sometimes PDF forms are necessary.
PDF Forms Best Practices:
- Tag and label each form field clearly so screen readers can identify them.
- Ensure the tab order follows a logical reading sequence.
- Provide clear instructions for completing the form, along with an email address or phone number to call for assistance.
- Avoid using visual cues alone (like color or placement) to indicate required fields.
- Test the form using both keyboard navigation and a screen reader.
For assistance repairing an inaccessible PDF form, complete the Request Accessible Technology Services form.
More Resources
Still Need Help?
IT Solutions can recommend the best tool for your needs, get you set up, help you build or convert forms into an accessible format, and create digital workflows where appropriate. Submit a ticket to request IT Solutions services.