Startquestion supports digital accessibility in compliance with the WCAG 2.2 Level AA standard. The structure and layout of the survey questionnaire, all question types, additional settings, and the default color template are designed to allow people with disabilities to complete surveys comfortably — including those using assistive technologies, keyboards, or mobile screens.
However, accessibility is something we build together. As the survey creator, you're responsible for the content — and that content largely determines whether your survey will truly be accessible to everyone.
Below are the most important rules to help you create accessible surveys — clearly, practically, and without unnecessary technical complexity.
1. Adding an Image? Add Alternative Text Too
If you're inserting an image, illustration, or icon into your questionnaire, remember that some users — such as people with visual impairments using screen readers — may not see them.
What to do:
Add a brief description that explains what the image shows and its purpose.
Example:
“Two people shaking hands in a friendly business atmosphere, with two others smiling in the background.”
Tips for writing alt text:
Think about why you chose this specific image and what message it’s meant to convey.
Keep it short — usually 1–2 sentences.
Consider the context in which the image is used. If there is text nearby, it may influence which parts of the image are most important to describe. The same image used in different contexts usually requires different alternative text.
Indicate whether it’s a logo, illustration, photo, or cartoon.
End the alternative text with a period.
How to add alternative text in Startquestion:
In the Create > Questions section, select your question type and insert the image in the preferred spot. Then click “Insert image” and fill in the “Alternative text” field. Done!
2. Adding Video or Audio? Include Captions or a Transcript
Video and audio materials should have a text alternative presenting the same content. This is crucial for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or using the internet without sound.
What to do:
If your video is from YouTube – ensure captions are enabled. Depending on the video, captions should include not only speech or dialogue but also meaningful sounds relevant to the context.
If you’re using audio or a video without captions – include a transcript (a written version of the spoken content).
3. Links — Make It Clear Where They Go
Screen reader users may skip between links — so link text should be clear and informative on its own, without requiring the full paragraph for context.
What to do:
Instead of: “Click here” use: “Learn more about our satisfaction survey.”
To add accessible link text in Startquestion, go to the appropriate section in the survey builder (e.g., additional content/answer options or the thank-you page), click “Insert link,” and enter the descriptive text in the “Display text” field.
4. Be Careful with Colors — Contrast Matters
If you're creating a custom color scheme, make sure there’s sufficient contrast between text and background. Text or text-based images must have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1.
WCAG standards also state that non-text graphics must have a minimum contrast ratio of 3:1 with surrounding colors. They should stand out clearly from nearby elements.
What to do:
The default Startquestion color theme meets these requirements — if you're using it, no extra steps are needed.
If you're designing your own theme, check contrast using one of these recommended tools:
Rating questions tip:
The default setting uses monochrome icons to ensure contrast. You can use a multicolor version, but in many cases, it may not meet contrast requirements — especially with non-white backgrounds. We recommend using the monochrome version, or if using colors, test it with one of the tools above.
5. Clarity, Simplicity, and Readability
Use clear and plain language. Avoid complex jargon. If any question or field may be unclear to respondents, provide a short comment or instruction.
What to do:
Instead of: “Indicate your NPS index preferences”
Use: “How likely are you to recommend our company to a friend?”For open-ended fields, use labels that are specific and easy to understand.
Instead of: “Address”
Use: “Full mailing address: street, building number, apartment number, ZIP code, and city.”If you want to ask for an email address, use the email question type – it includes the appropriate “autocomplete” attribute to assist users.
6. Consider Mobile Users
Your survey may be completed on a smartphone screen. Avoid overly long lines of text or complex grid layouts.
What to do:
Preview your survey on a mobile device before sending it. Check if it’s easy to complete with just one finger.
7. Conducting a Knowledge Test? Adjust the Settings
If your knowledge test may be taken by users who rely on screen readers, consider the following adjustments — either in the same questionnaire or a separate version:
What to do:
Display all questions on a single page, or enable the Back button so users can review previous pages. This allows users with disabilities to verify and confirm their answers before submission.
Avoid time limits for survey pages or the entire survey. If necessary, set a time limit that accommodates the needs of users using assistive technologies.
Make It Accessible for Everyone – Even Those Temporarily “Excluded”
Accessibility isn’t just for people with permanent disabilities. We can all encounter situations where using the internet becomes harder, like:
A broken arm,
Temporary vision problems,
Loud environments making audio hard to hear,
Weak internet connection.
A well-designed, accessible survey works for everyone — no exceptions