How can you create an inclusive and accessible search function?

1 Use semantic HTML

Semantic HTML is a way of writing HTML code that describes the meaning and structure of your content, rather than just its appearance. Semantic HTML helps search engines and assistive technologies, such as screen readers, to understand and navigate your website. For example, you should use the <label> element to associate a text label with an input field, such as a search box. This way, users who rely on keyboard navigation or voice commands can easily identify and interact with the search function.

2 Provide clear and consistent labels

Labels are the text that tell users what the search function does and how to use it. Labels should be clear, concise, and consistent throughout your website. For example, you should use the same term, such as "search" or "find", for the search button or icon on every page. You should also use the placeholder attribute to provide a hint or example of what users can type in the search box, such as "Search by keyword, category, or product name". Labels should also be visible and readable, using a suitable font size, color, and contrast.

3 Offer multiple ways to search

Different users may have different preferences or needs when it comes to searching for information or products on your website. Therefore, you should offer multiple ways to search, such as by keywords, categories, filters, or tags. You should also provide autocomplete, suggestions, or spell-check features to help users find what they are looking for faster and easier. Moreover, you should allow users to adjust or refine their search criteria, such as by adding or removing filters, sorting by relevance or popularity, or changing the number of results per page.

4 Display relevant and useful results

The quality and usability of your search results can make or break the user experience of your website. You should display relevant and useful results that match the user's query and expectations. You should also provide clear and informative titles, descriptions, and images for each result, as well as links to more details or actions. Furthermore, you should indicate how many results are found and how they are organized, such as by relevance, date, or category. You should also provide feedback and guidance if no results are found or if the query is invalid, such as by suggesting alternative keywords or offering to contact customer service.

5 Ensure keyboard and screen reader accessibility

Keyboard and screen reader accessibility are essential for users with visual, motor, or cognitive impairments, or those who prefer not to use a mouse or touch screen. To ensure your search function is keyboard and screen reader accessible, you should use the <form> element to wrap your search box and button, specifying the action and method attributes. The <input> element with the type="search" attribute should be used for the search box, with the name and id attributes identifying it. The <button> element with the type="submit" attribute should be used for the search button, and the aria-label attribute should provide a text alternative for the button icon. The tabindex attribute should control the order and focus of elements in your search function, using the :focus pseudo-class to style the focused element. Additionally, utilize role and aria-* attributes to define role, state, and properties of your search function and results. Finally, use <ul> and <li> elements to create a list of search results with <a> elements creating links to result pages. Also, utilize <h1> to <h6> elements for headings of search results, while using <p> elements for result descriptions.

6 Test and evaluate your search function

The last step to create an inclusive and accessible search function is to test and evaluate it with real users and tools. You should test your search function with different browsers, devices, and screen sizes, as well as with different input methods, such as keyboard, mouse, touch, or voice. You should also test your search function with different assistive technologies, such as screen readers, magnifiers, or switch devices. You should also use tools such as WebAIM's WAVE or Google's Lighthouse to check your search function for accessibility errors or issues. Finally, you should collect and analyze user feedback, such as surveys, interviews, or analytics, to measure the effectiveness and satisfaction of your search function and to identify areas for improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?