FileMaker - Accessible User Interface

ITAG Standard #7: Applications must be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Accessibility and FileMaker databases

Server/client systems

We most often associate accessibility with web sites, but as database developers we must also be mindful of interface design when no web browser is involved. Though FileMaker is not fully compatible with screen readers, it does have some features in support of accessibility. FileMaker provides fairly extensive keyboard shortcuts for many of its features and navigation. It also works compatibly with Windows and Mac built-in accessibility features.

When designing your layouts, particularly those that are part of interface rather than function, be sure to be mindful of your vision-impaired users. Choose high contrast color elements. Do not use color alone to indicate important functions or features in your application.

FileMaker-driven web sites

If you have enabled Instant Web Publishing and are sharing (non-sensitive) data via this method, your FileMaker web site will be fairly compatible with the JAWS screen reader product for Windows Internet Explorer or VoiceOver on Mac OSX. If you use more traditional technologies like php or xml for web-enabling your FileMaker database, then the usual guidelines and options are available to you. A wealth of information on accessibility can be found on the web, starting with W3C.

Resources:

• FileMaker and Accessibility
• FileMaker and Section 508 and developer guidelines
• MIT's ATIC Lab's checklist for developers and web accessibility guidelines