How Order and Omission of Web Content Can Vary Unintentionally Across User Cohorts: A Review

Abstract

Information has become more accessible than ever due to web technologies, standards, and assistive technologies. Still, here are unresolved issues that can hinder equal access to all. This study reports on work-in-progress that explores how various implementation choices can affect what information, and the order information is presented to different user groups. First, potential situations are reviewed where content is rendered differently for different users. Three user groups are considered, namely default browser users, low vision users that rely on browser magnification, and screen reader users. Potential consequences of different content and presentation orders are discussed. Implications of this study include raising awareness of the importance of presentation order and the potential risk of multiple presentation orders; stakeholders should be encouraged to strive for consistent and meaningful content for all users.