Using Form Controls

Make the form for the user, not for us.

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Best Practices

Louisiana government agencies will get the best data possible from the user if the forms are planned from the user’s point of view. Users don’t know the legislative or administrative structure. Arrange the forms for their understanding.

  • Don’t omit form labels.
  • Put labels above the field so that the label appears higher up on the page than the field.
  • Use a single column form if possible. This is the easiest form reading experience for users.
  • Consider Label Guidance.
  • Refrain from using the placeholder attribute.
  • Verify that the appropriate input type is being used, such as using <input type=”tel”> for telephone numbers.
  • Make for and id value match.
  • Change any IDs for your project’s requirements.

Theming

Unlike other Design System elements, Pelican discourages agency theming of forms and their controls. If an agency does theme forms and controls, ensure maximum compliance with Section 508 and WCAG guidelines.

Please read about Status colors, UI colors, and Agency Theming for more information.

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