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How to bind dynamic data to aria-label?

javascript
aria-label
angular
accessibility
Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Oct 18, 2024
TLDR

The quick fix utilizes JavaScript's setAttribute function or a framework's built-in data binding mechanism:

// Pure JavaScript way (also known as "Vanilla ice-cream style") document.querySelector('.your- CSS-selector').setAttribute('aria-label', dynamicData);

In the above example, replace .your-CSS-selector with the actual CSS selector of your element, and dynamicData is the variable containing your dynamic content.

// React.js way (more like a "Strawberry sundae style") <div aria-label={dynamicData}>...</div>

Same goes for React: dynamicData here needs to reflect the variable containing the updated content for the accessibility label.

Framework-specified methods: A slice of Angular

For those hooked on the Angular framework, there's a built-in solution just for you. Instead of aria-label, Angular uses attr.aria-label to bind dynamic data:

<!-- Angular binding ("Mint chocolate chip style") --> <div [attr.aria-label]="'Product details for ' + productDetails?.ProductName">...</div>

This cheeky snippet combines static text with a dynamic variable. Remember: some components, like Angular Material's mat-select, have their own interchangeable aria-label inputs.

Handling null values: A taste of reality

There might be instances where the value might be null or undefined. You know, sort of like hoping for a vanilla ice cream and getting an empty cone. So, always have a fallback:

<!-- Angular binding with a fallback ("Cookies and cream style") --> <div [attr.aria-label]="userName || 'Guest'">...</div>

Detours and potholes: Avoiding common pitfalls

While you journey through the land of dynamic aria-label binding, here are some things to steer clear of:

  • Mixing Angular interpolation ({{ }}) with aria attributes is like trying to mix oil and water: it simply doesn't work well.
  • The attr.aria-labelledby is a different beast and should not be used within aria-label bindings. It's like expecting a banana split and receiving a fruit salad. Still good, but not the same.
  • Lastly, Angular expects you to use square brackets for data binding. Not using them? Well, you're still stuck in the parking lot.

Extra toppings: Making aria-label usage effectively sweet

When it comes to using aria-labels, here's some cherry-on-the-top advice:

  • Test your dynamic aria-labels not just on one, but multiple screen readers. It's like taste-testing every flavor to make sure they all rally together for that perfect scoop.
  • When writing aria-labels, make them clear and descriptive. It's like labeling your ice cream flavors: "Sugary Cold Delight with Brown Crunchy Bits" sounds a lot tastier (and more informative) than "Sweet Stuff".

Hands on: A live demonstration

Enough with the theory, let's serve up some actual ice cream. Here's a working example of binding dynamic data to aria-label in an Angular application:

🔗Angular Aria-Label Dynamic Binding Demo

Extra scoops: A deeper dive into ARIA practices

If you're looking for an even deeper dive into creating accessible components within Angular Material, @Simon_Weaver has the scoop:

🔗Simon_Weaver's Answer on Angular Material mat-label Accessibility

Quality Control: The importance of continuous testing

Just when you think you've scooped the perfect cup, think again. It's essential to regularly test our dynamic aria-labels to ensure they adapt to content changes effectively. Remember, our "flavors" need to remain delicious for all our fellow screen reader users.