Aria Dialog Name
Minor - WCAG LEVEL AAA
What the Issue Is:
The issue arises when ARIA dialogs (using role="dialog") and alert dialogs (using role="alertdialog") lack an accessible name. An accessible name is crucial for assistive technologies, such as screen readers, to convey the purpose or title of the dialog to users. Without it, users may be confused about the content or action required within the dialog, leading to a frustrating experience.
Why It Matters:
For users who rely on screen readers, the accessible name provides context and clarity. When a dialog opens, the screen reader announces the dialog's name, allowing users to understand its purpose immediately. If the dialog lacks a proper name, users may not know what the dialog is about, which can hinder their ability to interact with the content effectively. This is particularly important for users with visual impairments who depend on auditory cues to navigate web content.
How to Fix It:
Identify the Dialog: Locate the ARIA dialog or alert dialog in your HTML code.
Add an Accessible Name: Use one of the following methods to provide an accessible name:
Using
aria-label: Directly specify the name of the dialog.Using
aria-labelledby: Reference an existing element (like a heading) that contains the name of the dialog.
Ensure Unique Naming: Make sure that the name is unique and descriptive enough to convey the dialog's purpose clearly.
Best Practices:
Prefer using
aria-labelledbyto link to a heading element within the dialog, as it provides a more semantic approach and allows for better screen reader support.Ensure that the dialog is focusable and that focus is moved to the dialog when it opens, enhancing usability.
Common Mistakes:
Omitting the accessible name altogether, which leads to confusion.
Using generic names that do not provide context (e.g., "Dialog" or "Alert").
Forgetting to update the accessible name if the dialog content changes dynamically.