Time Limits - Get 'A' Certified

Time Limits Should be Adjustable

People need varying times to complete tasks.
Follow these guidelines to give enough time to your users, and make your Web App 'A' Certified.

UX examples of where its needed:

• Situation:
  Text is scrolling across the screen
  Solution:
  Add a pause button
  


• Situation:
  User is taking an Online test
  Solution:
  A moderator should be able to extend the time to complete the test
  


• Situation:
  User is using Online Banking
  Solution:
  If a the user is inactive for a while, give the user 20 seconds to press any key to extend the session.
  


• Situation:
  User is trying to by a concert ticket online (With limited tickets)
  Solution:
  Warns user 20 seconds before the time limit is going to end. Also let the user input all of information and banking information before the time limit starts. It would be unfair to allow time extensions in this case.
  

The Checklist - One of the below should be true:

1. Turn off:
   The user can to turn off the time limit before it even starts
2. Adjust:
   The user can change the time limit by at least ten times the default length
   (It's 10 extension times because of clinical experience.)
   
   Essential Exception:
   Where the time limit is essential. Eg. granting double time on a test
   If it would invalidate the outcome to give all users the ability to change the time limit, a moderator must be able to change time for them (Eg. the teacher)
3. Extend:
   If the time limit is ending, give the user 20 sec to do something simple (like pressing the space bar). The user should be able to extend the time limit at least 10 times.

Other Exceptions

1. Real-time Exception:
   The time limit is a required part (eg, an auction) And it would be unfair to give more time to some and not others
2. 20 Hour Exception:
   If the default time limit is longer than 20 hours, you don't have to have any of the above features.

Who this Benefits:

• People who are reading/listening to content that is not in their first language
• People with physical disabilities often need more time to react
• People with low vision need more time to locate things on screen and to read
• People with blindness using screen readers may need more time to understand screen layouts
• People who watch sign language interpreters

References: Time Limits Required Behaviours