2.4 Acronyms could be expanded initially (Observation)

2.4.1 Acronyms could be expanded initially

While the service generally expands acronyms before using them, there are some, such as LAA and HM, that have not been expanded. It is recommended to avoid using acronyms without expanding and explaining them, since some users, such as some neurodivergent users or users not familiar with the system, may not easily identify what the term stands for.

Additionally, screen readers announce these particular acronyms as “la” and “hmm” which can be confusing. Identifying and expanding these acronyms when they first appear would help screen reader users to understand these announcements when encountering them again.

WCAG AAA criterion 3.1.4 states that users should be provided with the expanded form of abbreviations. Since the audit is being conducted against Level AA, so this will not affect the system’s compliancy rating. However, this issue is still worth noting.

FIGURE 2.4: Acronym on the Start page

2.4.2 Recommendation

Acronyms, particularly ones that might not be immediately obvious to users of the system, should be expanded and explained to users before using them.

While it is understandable to use abbreviations to avoid the page looking too cluttered, it would be helpful for users to know what the abbreviation stands for before continuing. While this service is meant to be used by those familiar with the system, providing this information would still be useful.

2.4.3 Spot check: April 2024

This issue is unresolved. Acronyms have not been explained fully. Please refer to the above recommendation.

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