Implementation of Skip Links for Enhanced Accessibility Navigation

[jeromehardaway]

Description:
In an effort to improve the accessibility and navigation of our web application for keyboard and screen-reader users, we have identified the need to implement "skip links" on every page. Skip links are hidden navigational links that become visible when focused (e.g., through keyboard navigation) and allow users to bypass repetitive content blocks, directly jumping to main landmarks such as the main content, menu, or footer. This enhancement is crucial for providing a more inclusive and efficient browsing experience for users relying on assistive technologies.

Action Required:

• Audit all web pages within our application to identify the main landmarks (e.g., main content, menu, footer).
• Implement hidden skip links at the beginning of each page that allow users to directly jump to these main landmarks. Ensure these links are accessible via keyboard navigation and are recognized by screen readers.
• The skip links should be visually hidden but must become visible when they receive focus (e.g., when tabbed to by keyboard users).
• Test the implementation thoroughly to ensure compatibility across different browsers and assistive technologies, confirming that the skip links improve navigation without introducing any layout or functionality issues.

Additional Information:
Skip links should be strategically placed and coded to ensure they are the first focusable elements when navigating a page using a keyboard or screen reader. This feature is particularly important for users who navigate sequentially through content, as it allows them to quickly access different sections of the page without having to tab through every link or button in the navigation.

By prioritizing this task, we reaffirm our commitment to making our digital content accessible to all users, aligning with accessibility standards and best practices. This initiative not only enhances the user experience for individuals using assistive technologies but also contributes to our broader goals of inclusivity and accessibility compliance.

It is essential that this task is approached with care and thorough testing to ensure the skip links function as intended across all pages and do not interfere with the existing design and functionality of our web application.