The struggle with access keys

I've been involved in testing various websites which have implemented access keys and brief guides on how to use access keys on their website.

I struggle with the reasoning behind access keys, and I often think they cause more harm than good!  The idea in principle seems great, but the reality is different.

My issues are:
-Though there is recommended guidelines, they are not always accurately followed, nor are they the same between countries.
-Different access keys for different sites, means that users have to second guess access keys being used, find out details of access keys, and/or remember what access keys are being used.
-Access keys can conflict with assitive technologies.

It would be interesting to understand other people's views and experiences on this issue.

Rosie Sherry
QA Consultant
www.drivenqa.com