Keyboard shortcut keys offered
Standardised shortcut key strokes are important for many users and there must be no interference from other applications to these features. An example would be keys used for copying text or graphics, Ctrl + C for Windows or Command (Apple Key) + C for Mac OS. These keystrokes can speed access and data entry and where a program has its own access keys or shortcuts they must be clearly stated. (CEUD 1.4, IBM 1.2, VPAT section 1194.21 (b)).
Testing Techniques
These techniques may be used to perform the test.
Method
Manually check to see what options have been provided for keyboard shortcut keys or Access keys. Test for standard keyboard shortcuts and the options offered when using a screen reader. There may also be occasions when the assistive technology keyboard shortcut keys clash with those offered by the software application. It should be possible to map new shortcuts in the application if this is the case.
Criteria for this Test
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No instructions, short cut keys override standard keyboard shortcuts and those of the assistive technology used. |
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No instructions but some shortcut keys are used, they do not affect standard keyboard shortcuts but clash with assistive technology and no option to change them is offered. |
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Some instructions available and shortcut keys work well with standard keyboard shortcuts and assistive technology. |
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Good instructions with keyboard shortcut keys list and shortcut keys on menus plus works well with standard keyboard shortcuts and assistive technology. |
