But for some users, time limits aren’t just an inconvenience—they can make entire sections of a site inaccessible.
No Timing ensures that users aren’t forced to race against the clock, giving them all the time they need to complete their tasks without pressure.
Who this impacts
- People with cognitive impairments: Users who need extra time to process information or perform tasks shouldn’t feel rushed or risk losing progress.
- People with motor impairments: Those who navigate or input information at a slower pace need the freedom to take their time on tasks.
- Everyone: Anyone can be impacted by distractions or interruptions (or even just a slow connection), and flexible timing ensures users can interact with content at their own speed.
How to meet No Timing
- Eliminate time limits: Wherever possible, design your site or app without time-based requirements for completing tasks.
- Allow tasks to be completed at any pace: Make sure users can interact with the content at their own pace, without feeling pressured by time constraints.
- Test without time limits: Make sure all tasks and interactions work smoothly without any timing restrictions, giving users control over their experience.
Practical example
Kitty Cache’s “Budget Your Treats” feature used to log users out after inactivity, making them re-enter calculations. Now, users can purr over their finances as long as they like without interruptions.
Exceptions
In rare cases where time limits are essential to the function (e.g., real-time bidding), the timing must be minimized and justified.
Top tips
- Eliminate time-based barriers: Avoid time limits unless absolutely necessary for the functionality of the site.
- Warn users where time limits exist: If timing is unavoidable, provide clear warnings and allow users to extend the time if necessary.