Why is an Accessibility Audit Needed for a VPAT?

Why an Accessibility Audit is Essential for a VPAT

When creating a VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template), it’s crucial to have an accurate accessibility audit in place. The audit ensures that your VPAT is filled out completely and correctly, reflecting the true accessibility status of your digital asset. Here’s why the audit is key to completing a VPAT and an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR).

1. The Role of the Accessibility Audit

  • Thorough Evaluation: An audit involves a detailed assessment of your digital asset against a technical accessibility standard, such as WCAG 2.1 (Level AA). The audit identifies all accessibility issues by using various testing methods like screen reader and keyboard testing, visual inspections, and code analysis.
  • Comprehensive Scope: A full audit ensures that the scope of your product or service is accurately represented. It provides a clear and detailed report, listing accessibility issues, their locations, relevant WCAG criteria, and recommended fixes.

2. How the Audit Leads to a Complete VPAT

  • VPAT Template: The VPAT itself is a structured document where the accessibility status of your digital asset is recorded. It includes columns for conformance levels (supports, partially supports, does not support, etc.), and may include remarks for areas of non-compliance.
  • Creating the ACR: The VPAT data is a foundational part of the Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR), which includes details like product name, version, and a summary of accessibility findings. The audit helps ensure that the VPAT reflects an accurate, comprehensive assessment of your product’s accessibility.

In conclusion, an accessibility audit is vital for completing a VPAT and ACR. It ensures that your accessibility report is thorough, transparent, and compliant with standards.

Key Takeaways

  • The audit provides the detailed data needed to accurately fill out a VPAT.
  • It ensures that your ACR reflects the true accessibility status of your product.