WCAG 2.2.1: Timing Adjustable

How to

• Adjusting time limits

  If a time limit exists on a website, users should have the option to extend that time limit by a factor of ten. This can be done through a dialog or a button.

  Technique(s):

  • G180: Providing the user with a means to set the time limit to 10 times the default time limit
  

• Pausing or disabling time limits

  Even better than adjusting the time limit would be allowing the limit to be paused or completely disabled.

  Technique(s):

  • G198: Providing a way for the user to turn the time limit off
  

• Warning before the time limit expires

  Display a clearly visible warning before a time limit expires.

  This warning should appear at least 20 seconds before the limit is reached so that users still have enough time to extend the time limit.

  In addition, the user must have the option to extend the time up to 10 times.

  Technique(s):

  • SCR16: Providing a script that warns the user a time limit is about to expire
  • SCR1: Allowing the user to extend the default time limit
  

Notes

• Exception: A time limit is essential

  If a time limit is required for security reasons, it is exempt from this criterion. Example: payment processes or the protection of sensitive data.

  This also applies when the time limit is an essential part of a real-time event, such as an auction or an exam.

  

• Exception: Alternative for time-limited status messages

  Status messages often disappear automatically after some time. This is problematic when they contain important information that the user cannot find elsewhere on the website.

  If status messages disappear on their own, the information must be available again in another place on the website.

  Example: An online shop shows a temporary toast message saying that you successfully added a product to your cart. You also receive this information in another way, because the number “one” appears next to the cart icon.