Scrollbars are becoming a problem (artemis.sh)

Article summary

The article discusses the issue of scrollbars becoming increasingly smaller and less usable, particularly for people with fine motor control problems or those who use assistive technologies. The author argues that this trend is problematic and that designers should prioritize accessibility and usability. The article also explores ways to customize scrollbar sizes in various software applications, including GTK, Qt, and Firefox. The author concludes that the war on scrollbars is being lost, with many applications prioritizing modern design principles over accessibility.

Main themes

• accessibility
• usability
• design principles
• scrollbar size
• assistive technologies
• jargon and technical terms

What commenters say

• The use of abbreviations like 'a11y' can be alienating for those who are not familiar with them, and clearer language should be used to promote accessibility.
• The trend of making scrollbars smaller is a symptom of a broader lack of consideration for accessibility in design.
• Some argue that using abbreviations like 'a11y' is not a significant issue, as they can be easily looked up, while others believe that it is important to use language that is accessible to all.
• The use of jargon and technical terms can be a barrier to understanding and participation, and should be avoided in favor of clearer language.
• Designers should prioritize accessibility and usability when creating software applications, rather than prioritizing modern design principles.
• The issue of scrollbar size is not just a matter of personal preference, but also has significant implications for people with disabilities.
• There is a need for more consideration and awareness of accessibility issues in the design community, and for designers to engage with users who have different needs and abilities.