name: accessibility description: Implement accessibility for the .NET 8 WPF widget host app. Use when improving keyboard navigation, screen reader support, focus states, and color contrast in XAML and styles.

Accessibility

Overview

Make the shell and widgets usable with keyboard navigation and assistive technologies.

Core areas

• Keyboard navigation and focus order
• Screen reader semantics
• Color contrast and focus visuals

Definition of done (DoD)

• All interactive controls are keyboard-accessible (Tab/Enter/Escape)
• AutomationProperties.Name set on buttons/controls without visible text
• Focus visuals visible in both Light and Dark themes
• No reliance on color alone to convey information
• Tested with Windows Narrator or similar screen reader

Workflow

1. Validate tab order and keyboard interactions.
2. Add automation properties for screen readers.
3. Ensure focus visuals are visible and consistent.
4. Check color contrast in Light/Dark themes.

Guidance

• Use AutomationProperties.Name and HelpText where needed.
• Avoid removing focus outlines without replacement.
• Test with high contrast mode if possible.

References

• references/keyboard.md for keyboard nav patterns.
• references/screen-readers.md for automation properties.
• references/color-contrast.md for contrast rules.