An important aspect of an accessible website is providing different ways for users to find what they need. Site maps and site search are two helpful tools for achieving this.
Sitemaps
Although an HTML sitemap is not required to comply with WCAG 2.1 AA, it is often recommended to help users navigate your website without clicking from menu to menu.
HTML sitemaps should provide a clear overview of the website's structure. A well-designed sitemap would consist of a list or outline format of discernible text links. This allows users of assistive technology to more easily navigate through different sections of the website without relying on the main navigation menu or other page elements that may create an accessibility barrier.
Users with cognitive impairments also benefit from a website with a clear structure and easy-to-identify text links.
Site Search
Providing a site search function is another optional technique for giving users multiple ways to find information without the need to understand or navigate your website's structure.
A site search allows users of assistive technology to quickly find information by searching with specific words or phrases, thus bypassing navigation menus.
A well-designed search capability would include features such as auto-complete, filters, and relevant search results. By tracking past searches, you can tailor suggestions and prioritize results most relevant to each user's needs.
Update and Test
If you use one or both of these techniques to boost your website's accessibility, make sure site maps and site searches are part of your regularly scheduled website audits and maintenance.
- Manually review your sitemap to ensure it is built with semantic HTML, uses discernible link text, can be navigated with a keyboard only, and is up-to-date.
- Regularly test and refine your site search functionality, search filters, and search results.
