Role application
Description
The role="application"
attribute is used in web development to identify an element as a web application rather than a standard web document. This ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) role signals to assistive technologies, such as screen readers, that the content within the element is interactive and requires application-like behavior, offering users more control and interaction options.
Disabilities impacted
- Visual impairments: users with visual impairments who rely on screen readers benefit from the
role="application"
as it enables more interactive and dynamic content handling, akin to desktop applications. - Motor impairments: users who navigate using keyboards or other assistive devices can interact with application-like interfaces more effectively if the role is correctly applied.
- Cognitive disabilities: users with cognitive disabilities may find application-like interactions more predictable and easier to use if the interface is properly marked up.
Why it matters
Using role="application"
appropriately enhances the accessibility of web applications by allowing assistive technologies to switch into application mode, providing a richer set of interactions. It can improve the user’s experience by offering a more intuitive and manageable interface. However, misuse of this role can lead to confusion and accessibility issues.
Coding problems and solutions
Common coding problems
- Overuse or misuse: applying
role="application"
to non-interactive content or entire web pages, which can confuse users and hinder the functionality of assistive technologies. - Lack of proper role application: not using
role="application"
for interactive sections of web applications where it would enhance the user experience. - Incorrect context: using
role="application"
in contexts where standard document interaction is more appropriate.
How to fix it
Apply to interactive regions
Use role="application"
only for sections of the web application that are highly interactive and behave like desktop applications.
<div role="application">
<p>This is a paragraph of text.</p>
</div>
<div role="application">
<!-- Interactive elements here -->
</div>
Avoid full page application role
Do not apply role="application"
to entire web pages unless the entire page is an interactive application.
<body role="application">
<h1>Welcome to the site</h1>
<p>This is some introductory text.</p>
</body>
<div role="application">
<button>Save</button>
<button>Cancel</button>
</div>
Ensure proper role context
Use role="application"
in contexts where it clearly improves interaction, such as within a rich text editor, interactive game, or dynamic form interface.
<div role="application">
<ul>
<li>Item 1</li>
<li>Item 2</li>
<li>Item 3</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div role="application">
<textarea aria-label="Rich text editor"></textarea>
<button>Bold</button>
<button>Italic</button>
</div>
Known limitations
- Assistive technology variability: different assistive technologies might interpret
role="application"
in various ways. Testing across multiple tools is necessary. - Complexity of interaction: overusing this role can add unnecessary complexity, making simple interactions harder for users to navigate.
- User experience: misapplication can degrade the user experience, making navigation and interaction more difficult than easier.