Designing Accessible Web-Based Chatbots

Environment

Web-based chatbot design

Issue

How to ensure that a web-based chatbot is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.

Resolution

If you are developing or implementing a chatbot at U-M, ensure that the chatbot is accessible by following accessibility guidelines and best practices.

See the following best practices that may be useful:

• Chatbot Accessibility Playbook, Mitre Corp
• Patterns for accessible webchat, UK Gov
• Best practices for a chatbot, Orange

To design an accessible web-based chatbot, follow these guidelines:

• Ensure that all controls can be accessed from the keyboard (not using a mouse)
• Implement ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) so that controls are labeled and dynamic content is communicated to screen reader users
• Provide text alternatives for non-text content
• Ensure sufficient color contrast between text and background

Additional Information

See more guidance on accessible design and development.

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.