What is accessibility, and why does it matter in Zoho CRM?

For most of us, using software like CRM becomes second nature as we interact with data, navigate interfaces, and perform tasks. But for users with disabilities, these interactions can be filled with obstacles.

Just like physical spaces can challenge wheelchair users, software interfaces often hinder people with disabilities. Overcrowded screens, small text, reliance on color, or mouse-only navigation create barriers that make work unnecessarily difficult.

When accessibility is overlooked, these barriers grow, limiting users instead of enabling them. That’s where accessibility steps in—to break down these barriers and provide equal opportunities for everyone to thrive.

Small changes can make a big difference. For instance:

1. Readable text: Larger fonts and better spacing make content easier to consume for everyone, especially those with vision challenges.
2. Color alternatives: Highlighting key information with symbols or text ensures clarity for users with color blindness.
3. Keyboard-friendly navigation: Allowing full keyboard control ensures smooth usage for users who can’t use a mouse.
   

Making Zoho CRM More Accessible  

For the millions of people who rely on Zoho CRM, especially those with disabilities, accessibility tools open new doors. With 18 customizable controls, users can now adapt Zoho CRM to meet their specific needs instead of adjusting to a standard setup.

Here’s what we’ve introduced:

Accessibility Features  

Vision Support  

Screen reader compatibility: Zoho CRM now works seamlessly with popular screen readers, making navigation and task completion easier for users with vision impairments.

Zoom-friendly interface: You can now zoom up to 150% without distorting the layout, ensuring clarity for all users.

Text magnification on hover: Zoom in on specific text elements by holding the Alt (Windows) or Option (Mac) key.

Motion control: Reduce or eliminate animations to avoid discomfort for users with vestibular sensitivities.

Switch labels and strikethroughs: These visual aids ensure toggle states and disabled buttons are easy to identify for everyone.

Customizable form display: Simplify forms by focusing only on mandatory fields.

Personalized mandatory fields and error messages: Mark these fields with text, symbols, or custom colors for better visibility.

Notification flash: Enable screen flashes to ensure you never miss an update.

ARIA landmarks: Organize the interface into clear sections, making navigation with assistive devices more efficient.

Mandatory field appearance: To save records, users often have to deal with mandatory fields, which are typically marked with red accent lines. However, this can be problematic for those with color vision challenges. Thankfully, users can now personalize the presentation of mandatory fields, such as by denoting them with an asterisk or a "Required" label.

Personalized mandatory fields and error messages: Mark these fields with text, symbols, or custom colors for better visibility.

Notification flash: Enable screen flashes to ensure you never miss an update.

ARIA landmarks: Organize the interface into clear sections, making navigation with assistive devices more efficient.

Motor Support  

Keyboard shortcuts: Create and use shortcuts to complete tasks faster and more easily.

Zia voice assistant: Users with severe motor disabilities can navigate and operate Zoho CRM using voice commands.

Interaction Enhancements  

Reading focus: Block distractions and focus on specific areas of the screen.Underline links: Clearly identify clickable links, even without relying on color.Standard navigation order: Navigate through elements in a logical and predictable pattern.