When it comes to accessibility audits, it’s crucial to understand that automated audits are a myth. If an audit is automated, it’s not truly an audit — it’s a scan. An audit, by definition, is a manual process that requires human involvement. Scans are helpful tools for flagging issues, but they are limited in scope and only catch about 25% of accessibility issues based on WCAG 2.1 AA standards.
Why Automated Audits Don’t Work
- Automation Can’t Replace Manual Work: While automated scans can identify some accessibility problems, they can’t catch everything. They’re useful for flagging obvious issues but miss complex or context-dependent problems. Manual checks, including screen reader testing, are needed to identify the full range of accessibility issues.
- Scans Are Limited: Scans can only flag a small subset of issues. They’re not a replacement for a full manual audit. Using scans as part of the process is fine, but they should never be considered a standalone solution.
Understanding Scans vs. Audits
- Scans are Everywhere: There are numerous free tools available (like WAVE or AXE) that can give you an overview of some accessibility issues. However, scans only provide a partial picture and should never be confused with a complete audit.
- The Truth About “Automated Testing”: Some companies try to sell automated audits by softening the truth. They may claim that scans can flag up to 50% of accessibility issues, but combining scans with manual testing, like screen reader reviews, doesn’t turn it into a full audit. It’s still just a scan with some extra steps.
Ultimately, an accessibility audit is a manual process that requires expert analysis to ensure full compliance with accessibility standards. If you’re looking for an actual audit, don’t rely on automated tools alone.