[wp-trac] [WordPress Trac] #61979: Proposal: Improve Accessibility of WordPress Admin Dashboard for Screen Reader Users in Version 6.6.1

[WordPress Trac]

#61979: Proposal: Improve Accessibility of WordPress Admin Dashboard for Screen
Reader Users in Version 6.6.1
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 Reporter:               |      Owner:  (none)
  agencedetectivenord    |
     Type:  enhancement  |     Status:  new
 Priority:  normal       |  Milestone:  Awaiting Review
Component:               |    Version:  6.6.1
  Administration         |   Keywords:  accessibility screen readers ARIA
 Severity:  normal       |  focus management keyboard shortcuts WordPress
  Focuses:               |  6.6.1
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 Context: WordPress version 6.6.1 has made significant improvements in
 terms of user experience and functionality. However, there is still room
 for enhancement regarding accessibility, particularly for users who rely
 on screen readers. The current WordPress admin dashboard has certain
 elements that are challenging for screen reader users, affecting their
 ability to navigate and interact with the admin interface effectively.

 Issue: Screen reader users have reported difficulties with:

 Inconsistent ARIA landmarks, which hinder smooth navigation.
 Lack of proper focus management when modals (pop-up windows) are opened or
 closed.
 Missing or inadequate ARIA labels for several buttons and links, leading
 to confusion or ambiguity in content interpretation.
 Overlapping keyboard shortcuts, causing unintentional actions.
 Proposal: I propose the following enhancements to address these issues in
 WordPress version 6.6.1:

 Standardize ARIA Landmarks: Ensure that all main sections (e.g.,
 navigation menus, content areas) have consistent and meaningful ARIA
 landmarks.
 Improve Focus Management: Implement a mechanism to manage focus
 appropriately when modals are triggered, ensuring that focus returns to
 the triggering element once the modal is closed.
 Add Comprehensive ARIA Labels: Review all interactive elements (buttons,
 links, etc.) and add descriptive ARIA labels to improve clarity for screen
 reader users.
 Re-evaluate Keyboard Shortcuts: Examine existing keyboard shortcuts for
 potential overlaps and conflicts, ensuring they are user-friendly for
 those relying on keyboards.
 Benefits:

 Enhances accessibility, aligning with WordPress's mission to democratize
 publishing.
 Improves the user experience for people with disabilities, making
 WordPress more inclusive.
 Reduces potential accessibility-related issues, which can be beneficial
 for site owners from a legal compliance perspective.

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Ticket URL: <https://core.trac.wordpress.org/ticket/61979>
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