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  • How to Conduct Accessibility User Testing

    You can pass every automated test and still fail your users. That’s the uncomfortable truth behind many accessibility initiatives. True accessibility goes far beyond technical compliance—it’s about how people actually experience your product. Accessibility user testing isn’t a last-minute box to check; it’s a powerful way to build digital experiences that work for everyone.

    In this article, we’ll walk you through how to conduct accessibility user testing in a way that’s respectful, strategic, and truly impactful. Whether you’re a UX professional, web developer, or product manager, you’ll leave with clear, practical guidance to take your testing process from good intentions to real results.

    What Automated and Manual Testing Miss

    Accessibility tools like Google Lighthouse and WAVE are fantastic for catching code-level issues—missing alt text, low contrast, missing labels. But that’s just the surface. These tools don’t understand user intent. They can’t tell if your focus order makes sense, or if a screen reader user can actually make sense of your modal flow.

    Manual testing helps fill some of those gaps. Keyboard-only navigation, zoom testing, and screen reader simulations can uncover a lot—especially when done by experienced testers. But even this falls short of the lived experience.

    Take a modal dialog as an example. You might trap focus correctly, label everything with ARIA, and pass every automated check. But in practice? A screen reader user may still struggle because the modal doesn’t announce in the expected order or re-focus correctly on close. That’s the kind of thing only accessibility user testing with real people can reveal.

    Why User Testing with People with Disabilities Is the Game-Changer

    No simulation can match the perspective of someone who uses assistive tech every day. People who rely on screen readers, switch devices, or voice navigation uncover friction and failure points that even seasoned accessibility professionals can overlook.

    Here’s the shift: stop thinking of users with disabilities as edge cases. They’re not. They’re part of your audience—your customers, students, patients, or users. Designing for them improves your product for everyone.

    Accessibility user testing isn’t just about catching bugs. It’s a critical feedback loop that improves usability, product-market fit, and even innovation. When you integrate it early and often, you don’t just “fix accessibility”—you build better experiences from the ground up.

    Planning Your Accessibility User Testing Program

    Define Clear Objectives

    Start with real-world tasks. Instead of running a general audit, design your tests around meaningful user journeys:

    • Is it possible for a blind user to complete a purchase from start to finish?
    • Someone with low dexterity—can they successfully submit your job application form?
    • And what about users with cognitive differences—can they easily locate your support content?

    Clear, task-based goals help you focus your sessions and gather actionable insights.

    Build a Representative Participant Pool

    Many teams fall into the trap of testing only with blind screen reader users. That’s important—but not enough.

    To make your testing inclusive:

    • Include participants with motor impairments, cognitive disabilities, low vision, and voice input users.
    • Recruit from diverse sources and advocacy organizations.
    • Pay your testers. Always. Accessibility user testing is specialized work and should never rely on free labor. Follow ethical compensation practices and provide flexible scheduling and support.

    Pre-Test Logistics and Respectful Setup

    Before the session, send a tech-check checklist to participants. This might include browser compatibility, assistive tech setup, and ensuring a quiet space.

    Also, ask about accommodations in advance:

    • Do they prefer screen sharing or phone interviews?
    • Do they need additional time?
    • Would they like the questions in advance?

    Offering flexible formats—remote, hybrid, or in-person—ensures participants can engage comfortably. Respect starts with planning.

    Running Meaningful and Inclusive Testing Sessions

    Session Structure That Works

    Start with a warm-up task or small talk to ease anxiety and build trust. Remember, this isn’t a test of the participant—it’s a test with them.

    Structure your session around a few focused tasks. Example:

    • “Please use the site to find and register for a webinar.”
    • “Try to contact customer support using your preferred method.”

    Observe closely—but don’t interrupt unless necessary. Let participants narrate their thought process if they’re comfortable. This gives you insight into confusion points, workaround strategies, and breakdowns in usability.

    Accessibility user testing is about listening. Often, the most valuable insights come not from what users can or can’t do, but from the effort it takes them to do it.

    Ask Thoughtful, Open-Ended Questions

    Instead of “Did that work for you?” try:

    • “How did that process feel?”
    • “What was easy or hard about that task?”
    • “Was there anything that surprised or confused you?”

    Create space for honest feedback, and resist the urge to jump in with fixes. Your goal is to understand, not defend.

    From Feedback to Action

    Once your accessibility user testing sessions are complete, consolidate your notes into themes. What barriers kept coming up? Were there recurring moments of friction?

    Tag issues by severity and impact. Some will be quick fixes—labeling buttons, adjusting tab order. Others may require bigger design shifts. Either way, track them in your product backlog and prioritize them alongside other critical bugs.

    Also, share findings with your team. Make video clips or quotes part of your sprint reviews or design critiques. Seeing real users struggle—or succeed—can be a powerful motivator for accessibility buy-in across your organization.

    Make It Part of Your Process

    Accessibility user testing isn’t a one-off effort. Integrate it into every major phase of development:

    • Early design prototypes
    • Beta versions before release
    • Major feature updates

    The earlier you involve users, the more you catch—and the less expensive it is to fix. Consider building an accessibility testing panel you can tap into regularly. Make it part of your QA cycle, not just a compliance afterthought.

    User-Tested, People-Approved

    Automated tools and manual audits are important—but they only take you so far. To build truly inclusive experiences, you need to go deeper. Accessibility user testing gives you something no tool ever will: real human insight.

    By listening to and designing with people with disabilities, you move from compliance to compassion. From checking boxes to opening doors. From good enough to genuinely excellent. And that’s not just better accessibility—it’s better UX, period.

    If you’re ready to elevate your accessibility strategy with meaningful user feedback, 216digital can help. Schedule an ADA briefing with our accessibility team to discuss how user testing fits into a comprehensive, long-term solution. Together, we’ll help you build experiences that work for everyone—starting now.

    Greg McNeil

    June 13, 2025
    Testing & Remediation, Uncategorized
    Accessibility testing, Manual Testing, User Experience, user testing, Users experience, Web Accessibility Remediation

  • Are Accessible Websites More Expensive to Develop?

    Let’s get one thing out of the way: making your website accessible does not mean doubling your budget or dragging out your timeline. One of the biggest misconceptions we hear from clients is that accessible websites are more expensive to build. But when done right, accessibility isn’t some extra layer you slap on later—it’s a smarter way to build from the beginning.

    Accessibility isn’t about adding bells and whistles. It’s about giving everyone a fair shot at using your site—no matter how they access it. And when accessibility is baked into your planning, design, and development phases, it actually saves you money. On the flip side, skipping it now often leads to expensive fixes, rework, or even legal issues later.

    Bottom line: accessible websites aren’t more expensive to develop—inaccessible ones are.

    What Accessibility Actually Requires

    If you’re picturing accessibility as a mountain of custom features and complicated coding, let’s pump the brakes. Most accessibility best practices are about making smarter choices early in the process, not reinventing the wheel.

    Let’s look at a few low-effort, high-impact things your team can do:

    • Add alternative (alt) text as you upload images. It takes seconds and provides screen readers with essential context.
    • Use semantic HTML (like proper headings, lists, and buttons) instead of just styling with divs and spans.
    • Structure navigation so users can tab through with a keyboard.
    • Check your color contrast in early design stages—this small choice determines readability for millions of users.

    Accessibility isn’t about building entirely new tools. It’s about ensuring your site plays nicely with existing assistive technologies—like screen readers, screen magnifiers, or voice navigation tools.

    That means you don’t have to build special versions of your site for users with disabilities. You just need to support the way they already navigate the web.

    Building Accessibility from the Ground Up Saves Time and Money

    Now here’s where the real costs come in: retrofitting. When accessibility isn’t part of the original plan, fixing issues after launch becomes much more expensive.

    Let’s say you skipped writing alt text during image uploads. Going back to write descriptions for 1,000+ images after the fact? That’s hours—if not weeks—of work.

    Or maybe you used complex JavaScript widgets without thinking about keyboard access. Retrofitting those components to be screen reader-friendly may mean rewriting large sections of your code.

    In other words, fixing inaccessible websites costs more than doing it right the first time. And those fixes often introduce technical debt—clunky workarounds, inconsistent updates, and ongoing maintenance headaches.

    Accessible websites, when built with care from the start, are easier to update, scale, and maintain. They’re leaner, cleaner, and future-proof.

    Accessibility Supports Other Core Business Goals

    Accessibility isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s also good business.

    Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

    Search engines love accessible sites. Why? Because many accessibility best practices—like using descriptive alt text, heading tags, and semantic HTML—also help search engines understand and index your content.

    Performance and Usability

    Accessible websites tend to have faster load times and cleaner code, which improves the overall user experience. Mobile users, for example, benefit from accessible design as much as someone using a screen reader.

    Security and Stability

    Accessible forms often rely on well-structured HTML and simple interactions rather than fragile JavaScript plugins. This makes your site more stable and secure, reducing the likelihood of bugs or failures.

    In short, accessibility supports the same goals that developers, designers, marketers, and business owners already care about: visibility, usability, and reliability.

    The Real Risk: Legal Liability and Missed Market Potential

    Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room: lawsuits.

    Accessibility-related lawsuits have been on the rise for years—especially under ADA Title III, which covers websites as places of public accommodation. And it’s not just the big guys being targeted. Small and midsize businesses are increasingly in the crosshairs.

    Worse, many businesses try to cut corners with accessibility overlays or plugins. These tools promise instant compliance but often fall short of legal standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). Relying on them can actually increase your legal risk.

    And beyond compliance? Let’s not ignore the massive untapped audience:

    • 1 in 4 U.S. adults lives with a disability.
    • Older adults, one of the fastest-growing groups of online shoppers, benefit from larger text, clearer navigation, and reduced motion.
    • Consumers care—more people are making buying decisions based on brand values like inclusivity and social responsibility.

    An accessible website isn’t just a shield against lawsuits. It’s a magnet for customers you might otherwise miss entirely.

    Smart Accessibility Decisions by Role

    No matter your role on a digital team, you can make choices that support accessible websites from the beginning.

    For Designers

    • Choose high-contrast color schemes.
    • Use legible fonts with scalable sizes.
    • Structure content with a clear visual hierarchy.
    • Design for flexibility—not everyone uses a mouse or touchscreen.

    For Developers

    Use semantic HTML for structure.

    • Make sure all interactive elements work with a keyboard.
    • Don’t overuse ARIA—follow best practices and use it only when necessary.

    For Content Creators

    • Write in plain, easy-to-understand language.
    • Make sure your links say where they go (“Read our pricing guide,” not just “Click here”).
    • Use headings and lists to break up content.

    For Project Managers

    • Treat accessibility like you would security or performance. It’s not optional—it’s critical.
    • Schedule accessibility testing early and often, not just at the end.
    • Work accessibility into every sprint, deliverable, and stakeholder review.

    Accessibility is everyone’s job—and it’s much easier when it’s a shared priority from the beginning.

    Accessibility as an Investment, Not a Line Item

    Let’s reframe the conversation.

    Accessibility isn’t just a cost on your project spreadsheet. It’s a long-term investment in your brand, your user experience, and your operational efficiency.

    Here’s what you gain:

    • Simpler redesigns: Sites built on semantic, accessible foundations are easier to rebuild or re-theme.
    • Better customer experiences: More people can use your site with ease—and they’ll remember it.
    • Improved trust: Customers, partners, and regulators alike see accessible websites as a sign of responsibility and care.

    Even the W3C, the global standards organization behind WCAG, notes that accessible websites “often work better for everyone” and “improve the user experience across devices.”

    At 216digital, we’ve seen it firsthand—companies that build accessibly from the start end up with stronger, leaner, and more successful digital platforms.

    Make Accessibility a Strategic Priority

    So, are accessible websites more expensive to develop?

    Not if you do it right.

    Integrating accessibility from the beginning is faster, cheaper, and more effective than fixing it later. It supports your other business goals, opens up new markets, and protects you from legal risk.

    Inaccessible websites may cost less upfront—but they cost far more in the long run.

    If you’re planning a redesign or wondering where your current site stands, scheduling an ADA accessibility briefing with 216digital is a smart, low-commitment first step. We’ll help you assess your current risk, prioritize improvements, and put you on the path to building more inclusive digital experiences.

    Because accessibility isn’t an extra—it’s just smart business.

    Greg McNeil

    June 9, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, cost, Web Accessibility Remediation, Website Accessibility

  • Is Manual Accessibility Testing Worth the Time?

    Deadlines move fast. Automated accessibility tools promise faster. It’s no surprise many dev teams lean on them—especially when stakeholders are asking, “Are we compliant yet?” Tools like WAVE and Lighthouse give quick answers, clean reports, and a reassuring sense of progress.

    But here’s the part too many teams miss: automated testing only tells part of the story. The code might check out, but what about the actual experience? Can someone using a screen reader complete a purchase? Can a keyboard user navigate a modal without getting stuck? These are the kinds of issues that don’t show up in automated scans—but absolutely show up in real life.

    If your goal is to build a product that’s not just technically compliant, but genuinely usable and defensible, manual accessibility testing needs to be part of the process. It’s the only way to uncover what automation can’t: nuance, clarity, and usability in the real world.

    In this article, we’ll unpack the value of manual testing, where automated tools fall short, and how a smart hybrid approach gives you better results—and better protection.

    What Is Manual Accessibility Testing?

    Manual accessibility testing is the hands-on process of evaluating a digital product’s usability for people with disabilities—without relying solely on software. This might include:

    • Navigating with only a keyboard
    • Using a screen reader like NVDA, JAWS, or VoiceOver
    • Checking for color contrast by eye
    • Reviewing focus states and logical tab order
    • Testing real-world use cases (like filling out a form or completing a checkout process)

    The goal is to simulate the experience of actual users with assistive technologies and identify barriers beyond code compliance.

    The Appeal (and Limits) of Automated Testing

    Automated accessibility tools like Lighthouse and WAVE have transformed developers’ identification of issues. They quickly scan code for missing alt text, incorrect ARIA roles, form labeling issues, and other violations of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

    Automated testing is fast and repeatable. It’s ideal for:

    • Initial scans during development
    • Catching basic syntax errors
    • Setting up CI/CD integration for ongoing testing
    • Flagging regressions after code updates

    But here’s the catch: automation can only detect around 25-35% of accessibility issues. The rest requires human judgment.

    What Automated Tools Can’t Catch

    Despite their efficiency, automated tools lack the context and empathy of human testing. Here’s what they consistently miss:

    1. Keyboard Trap Detection: Tools may confirm that an element is focusable, but they won’t always detect when users get stuck in modal dialogs or custom components without a proper way to escape.
    2. Screen Reader Usability: Only a human can determine if the screen reader output is logical, coherent, and meaningful in context. Just because a screen reader reads something doesn’t mean it makes sense to the user.
    3. Visual Focus Indicators: Automated checkers might verify the presence of a focus style, but they can’t confirm if it’s visible or intuitive in a real-world interface.
    4. Form Instructions and Error Messages: Does the screen reader clearly announce the error? Are instructions available before a user makes a mistake? Automation doesn’t evaluate the usability of the experience.
    5. Color Contrast in Context: A contrast checker might say a color combination passes WCAG, but it doesn’t judge readability in real UI conditions (like against busy background images or gradients).
    6. Meaningful Link Text: Tools can flag vague text like “click here,” but they don’t understand if a link in a sentence conveys context when read out of order.
    7. Cognitive Load and Ease of Use: Only a human can evaluate whether a layout or interaction is intuitive for users with cognitive disabilities or limited dexterity.

    In short, automation checks the code; manual accessibility testing checks the experience.

    Why a Hybrid Approach Works Best

    The smartest accessibility strategies combine the speed of automation with the nuance of manual testing. Here’s how they complement each other:

    TaskBest MethodWhy
    Catch missing alt attributesAutomatedFast and reliable for simple HTML validation
    Ensure meaningful alt descriptionsManualContext is required for accuracy
    Validate keyboard navigationManualHumans can detect trap states, confusing order
    Check color contrast ratiosAutomatedUseful for quick scanning
    Judge visual clarity of focus statesManualOnly human vision can determine visibility
    Spot WCAG syntax violationsAutomatedEfficient, especially with CI/CD tools
    Confirm screen reader compatibilityManualRequired for usability assurance
    Test form completion and feedbackManualCritical for real-world workflows

    This hybrid approach is not only more accurate—it’s also more defensible in legal contexts. Suppose you’re remediating a site for ADA compliance or preparing for WCAG conformance claims. In that case, you need evidence that your digital experience has been tested by real users or testers simulating those users.

    Real-World Example: Checkout Accessibility

    Let’s say you’re working on an e-commerce site. An automated test might scan your cart and checkout pages and report:

    • 100% form elements are labeled
    • Contrast ratios are within limits
    • No ARIA roles are missing

    Looks good.

    But a manual tester might uncover:

    • The shipping address form doesn’t announce errors with a screen reader
    • The “Apply Coupon” button can’t be reached with the keyboard alone
    • The payment section’s field focus jumps around unexpectedly
    • The screen reader reads the price table in a confusing order

    These are real barriers that impact sales—and wouldn’t be flagged by automation.

    Manual Accessibility Testing Doesn’t Have to Be Time-Consuming

    Yes, manual testing takes time. But it doesn’t have to grind your project to a halt.

    Here’s how teams can streamline the process:

    • Integrate manual accessibility testing in sprints. Assign accessibility checks to QA or dev team members alongside other functional testing.
    • Use assistive tech simulators early. Even five minutes with VoiceOver or NVDA on a new feature can reveal major issues.
    • Focus on high-impact areas. Prioritize navigation, forms, modals, and anything tied to conversions or essential tasks.
    • Document patterns. Once you’ve tested common components (like dropdowns, date pickers, etc.), reuse them instead of rebuilding.

    And most importantly—train your team. A developer with basic screen reader skills and a solid understanding of WCAG can identify more issues in five minutes than a tool might catch in five hours.

    The Long-Term Payoff

    Manual accessibility testing isn’t just about checking a compliance box—it’s about protecting your users, your brand, and your bottom line.

    Benefits of a hybrid testing strategy include:

    • Fewer false positives and rework
    • Better user experience for everyone
    • Reduced legal risk and stronger compliance
    • Improved SEO and discoverability
    • Greater confidence in product quality

    When teams understand what to test, how to test it, and why it matters, accessibility becomes a natural part of the development workflow—not an afterthought.

    Bridging the Gap Between Code and Experience

    So—is manual accessibility testing worth it?

    Without question. Automated tools are great for speed, consistency, and catching the basics, but they can’t see the experience through a user’s eyes. Manual accessibility testing brings in that essential layer of human judgment, helping your team uncover issues that really affect usability—especially for people navigating with assistive technologies.

    When you pair automation with real-world testing, you’re not just building a site that passes checks—you’re creating something that works better for everyone. It’s a smarter, more resilient way to approach accessibility, especially as legal expectations grow and user expectations rise even faster.

    Curious what that could look like for your team? Schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital. We’ll walk you through our Phase 2 real-world remediation services—designed to help you go beyond code checks and build accessibility that holds up in practice, not just on paper.

    Greg McNeil

    May 15, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, Accessibility testing, manual audit, Manual Testing, Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Remediation

  • Don’t Be Fooled by False Positives in Accessibility

    Imagine you’re scanning through an accessibility report when it flags a purely decorative image for missing alt text. You pause and double-check the code—aria-hidden= "true" is clearly set—yet the tool insists it’s an issue. In moments like these, you’re dealing with false positives.

    When left unchecked, false positives can waste hours of development time, drain your budget, and leave real accessibility problems hidden beneath noise. For developers who regularly rely on automated accessibility testing, learning to recognize and reduce these inaccuracies is as essential as fixing actual accessibility barriers.

    What a False Positive Really Is

    Simply put, false positives occur when a testing tool incorrectly marks compliant content as inaccessible, even though it aligns perfectly with standards like WCAG. These mistaken alerts often create confusion and lead teams to fix things that aren’t broken—sometimes at the expense of overlooking real issues.

    So, why do they happen? Usually, false positives stem from three common causes:

    • Limited context: Automated tools understand code but not intent. Elements involving dynamic JavaScript or custom user settings can confuse them, triggering inaccurate alerts. For example, a modal loaded via JavaScript might be marked as inaccessible until it’s fully rendered, even if it meets all WCAG requirements when interactive.
    • Overly cautious rules: Some tools are intentionally strict, flagging anything remotely questionable to avoid missing genuine issues. While well-intentioned, this can lead to excessive alerts. Developers end up treating these tools like overprotective smoke alarms—loud, constant, and sometimes hard to trust.
    • Varied coding practices: Custom components or unconventional markup patterns, common in modern front-end workflows, often mislead algorithms expecting textbook HTML. Accessibility implemented through ARIA roles or JavaScript event handlers may trip up tools that expect static HTML structures.

    Most developers have encountered these scenarios in practice: decorative icons labeled as “critical issues,” contrast alerts ignoring user-selected dark modes, or dynamic form elements incorrectly flagged for missing labels. Each instance represents the broader problem—tools missing the bigger picture.

    The Hidden Costs of False Positives

    When false positives become part of your day-to-day workflow, the cost isn’t just inconvenience—it’s real impact on time, trust, and outcomes.

    Time and Budget Drain

    Chasing down false positives can quickly become a costly distraction. Imagine your team spends hours rewriting alt text for images that never needed it. Those same resources could have resolved genuine issues or shipped new features, improving your product instead of spinning its wheels. For larger teams or enterprise projects, these hours quickly compound into days—adding up to measurable delays in delivery and inflated budgets.

    This resource drain can be particularly painful during audits or compliance deadlines when teams are working under pressure. Every misfire takes attention away from what truly matters: building inclusive digital experiences for real users.

    Erosion of Trust in Tools

    Repeated inaccurate alerts erode confidence in accessibility tools. Developers may grow skeptical, dismissing genuine issues as “probably another false positive.” This skepticism can cause real accessibility problems to slip through unnoticed, undermining the very purpose of using these tools.

    Once the trust is gone, so is the motivation to use these tools proactively. Instead of integrating accessibility checks early and often, teams may push them off to the final stages—or abandon them altogether. That’s a slippery slope that compromises both compliance and user experience.

    Legal and Reputational Risks

    Perhaps most serious of all, excessive false positives can mask true accessibility problems. If your team assumes a website is compliant based on misleading tool reports, users could face unexpected barriers. That scenario leaves your organization vulnerable to lawsuits, fines, and damage to brand reputation.

    It’s a dangerous combination: a dashboard showing 100% compliance while screen reader users struggle to navigate key interactions. In the worst-case scenario, this could lead to legal action under ADA, Section 508, or similar laws depending on your location or industry.

    Practical Steps to Minimize False Positives

    It’s not about choosing between automation and accuracy—it’s about striking a balance. Here are a few strategies that can help:

    Choose Tools Carefully

    Accuracy is crucial. Opt for tools known to minimize false positives—look at reviews, user communities, and real-world feedback. Tools that offer detailed explanations for each issue help developers evaluate the context instead of blindly applying changes. Bonus points for tools that integrate smoothly into your CI/CD pipeline or Git workflows, allowing developers to spot and triage issues earlier in the process.

    Combine Automated Testing with Manual Checks

    Automation is valuable, but humans bring the necessary context. Regular manual reviews, particularly with real assistive technologies like screen readers or keyboard-only navigation, confirm whether flagged issues are real or simply more false positives. This human element provides critical insights into actual user experiences that no machine can replicate on its own.

    Pairing automated scans with periodic expert reviews ensures you don’t end up trusting the scanner more than the people you’re building for.

    Educate and Empower Your Team

    Providing training ensures everyone knows what a genuine accessibility issue looks like. Regular team briefings, quick reference guides, or lunch-and-learn sessions can equip developers and QA specialists to confidently distinguish true issues from false positives during daily workflows.

    It also helps to document commonly misflagged elements in your internal dev wiki or design system docs. That way, developers don’t waste time rediscovering the same conclusions again and again.

    Shift Accessibility Testing Left

    Accessibility testing should be a routine practice, integrated into every development phase—right alongside linting, unit testing, and code reviews. Early checks catch issues and limit the spread of false positives throughout your codebase.

    This shift-left approach reduces last-minute panic before launches and promotes a culture where accessibility is part of the conversation from the start. Teams that embed these habits often find they’re able to respond to flagged issues faster and with greater confidence.

    Engage Accessibility Specialists

    Sometimes, complex implementations or large-scale projects need specialized insight. Accessibility experts can fine-tune automated testing parameters, spot challenging edge cases, and provide tailored recommendations. Their guidance helps reduce false positives and sets your project on a sustainable path forward.

    Even a short-term partnership or audit can clarify which alerts deserve attention and which are tool-generated noise. Think of it like calling in an electrician to check wiring behind the walls—some things are better seen with trained eyes.

    A True Positive Path Forward

    False positives in accessibility testing aren’t just minor annoyances—they cost valuable resources, erode trust, and potentially expose your site to compliance risks. Left unchecked, they can derail good intentions and cause more confusion than clarity. But with the right balance of tools, process, and people, they don’t have to.

    Start by picking better tools, pairing them with manual validation, and investing in your team’s knowledge. Make accessibility part of your workflow—not just a checkbox at the end. And when needed, bring in expert support to cut through the noise.

    Want to take your accessibility efforts to the next level? Schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital. Our team will help you build a sustainable, practical strategy for achieving real-world accessibility and staying ahead of compliance requirements.

    Greg McNeil

    May 13, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, false positives, Web Accessibility Remediation, web developers, web development, Website Accessibility

  • ADA Website Compliance: Quick Fix or Fully Conform?

    If you’re here, you probably already know your site needs to be accessible. You might’ve had an audit or maybe a legal notice made things real. But now comes the hard part: what’s the best way forward? Do you fix what’s broken right now and move on, or go all in and follow the full Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)?

    Let’s walk through what ADA website compliance really looks like—and how to choose the right approach for your site, your users, and your business.

    What ADA Website Compliance Really Means

    The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) doesn’t give websites a step-by-step checklist. It just says your site needs to be accessible in a way that offers “meaningful access” to people with disabilities. That’s pretty open-ended—and that’s where WCAG comes in.

    The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the technical standards most often used to measure accessibility. Courts and government agencies, like the Department of Justice, often refer to WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the benchmark when they evaluate websites for ADA compliance. That version includes over 50 individual requirements that cover everything from color contrast and keyboard navigation to how your site handles screen readers.

    So, when we talk about ADA website compliance, we’re really talking about how closely your site follows WCAG—and whether users with disabilities can actually navigate and use your site without barriers.

    Two Paths to Accessibility: Full ADA WebsiteCompliance vs. Practical Fixes

    When you’re deciding how to move forward, there are really two main paths: full WCAG conformance or practical remediation. They both aim to make your site better, but they approach the goal very differently.

    What Full WCAG Compliance Means

    Full WCAG compliance means that your website meets every requirement outlined in the WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards. These guidelines are built around four main principles: your content must be Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust.

    So what does that mean in practice?

    What Users Should Experience

    It means users should be able to:

    • See or hear your content, no matter how they access it.
    • Navigate your site using just a keyboard, or a screen reader, or other assistive tools.
    • Understand your interface—forms, menus, buttons—without confusion.
    • Interact with a website that works consistently across browsers, platforms, and assistive tech.

    Getting There: The Work Involved

    Getting to full compliance isn’t just about checking a few boxes. It’s a full audit, followed by deep changes to your code, design, and sometimes even content workflows. You’ll need to scan every page, test key user journeys, and update components to work for everyone—not just mouse users or sighted users. That often includes:

    • Fixing or rebuilding navigation menus to support keyboard use
    • Adding semantic structure (like proper heading levels) to every page
    • Making sure pop-ups and modals don’t trap users
    • Providing descriptive alt text and meaningful link names
    • Ensuring color contrast is high enough for users with low vision
    • And much more

    It’s a big lift—but it’s also the most reliable way to reduce legal risk, improve usability, and ensure long-term accessibility. If your site serves the public sector, a large audience, or is part of a digital product suite, full compliance may be the smartest move—even if it takes time. ADA website compliance at this level shows a proactive, inclusive mindset.

    What Practical Accessibility Remediation Means

    Practical accessibility remediation focuses on what’s legally risky and functionally broken. You’re not rebuilding the whole site; you’re fixing the issues that do the most harm.

    Practical accessibility remediation focuses on what’s legally risky and functionally broken. That means you start by identifying the most common barriers that actually stop people from using your site.

    Popular High-Risk Issues

    • Missing alt text: If screen readers can’t describe an image, the user misses the point.
    • Keyboard traps: If someone can’t navigate out of a menu or modal with a keyboard, they’re stuck.
    • Unlabeled form fields: Without a proper label, assistive technology can’t tell the user what input is expected.
    • Low color contrast: Text blends into the background and becomes unreadable for users with vision issues.
    • Videos without captions: Deaf users can’t understand the content at all.

    You’re still auditing your site, but instead of trying to fix everything, you prioritize the areas that cause the most user frustration or legal exposure. It’s faster. It takes fewer resources. And it still makes a real difference for accessibility and ADA website compliance in the short term.

    The Trade-Offs

    The tradeoff? Practical fixes don’t cover the full scope of WCAG. Some issues—like redundant link text, improper heading structure, or ARIA roles—might go untouched. That leaves some risk on the table, and it means you’ll still need a plan to address those later.

    How to Decide What’s Right for You

    You don’t need to be a lawyer or a developer to make a smart call here—you just need to think about your audience, your risk, and your roadmap.

    If you’re a government agency, a university, or a large brand, full WCAG compliance may be expected—or even required in contracts. You’ll want a long-term accessibility partner, a roadmap with milestones, and time set aside for remediation work.

    If you’re a small business or mid-sized e-commerce site, practical fixes might be the right place to start. You can quickly reduce your legal risk while making meaningful improvements for your users.

    That said, practical remediation should always be seen as step one—not the final goal. Accessibility is not a one-and-done task. It’s part of how you build and maintain a trustworthy, inclusive brand.

    Steady Progress Beats Perfect Overnight

    Full WCAG compliance and practical remediation aren’t at odds. They’re two parts of the same journey. Many teams start with quick fixes to cover high-risk issues, then work toward full compliance over time—integrating accessibility into future design and development cycles.

    Here’s the key takeaway: ADA website compliance isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. Fix what’s hurting users now. Make a plan for what comes next. And build a process that helps you get better with every release.

    If you’re unsure where your site stands or how to move forward, talk to a specialist. At 216digital, we help teams like yours take real, measurable steps toward accessibility—whether that’s a quick win or a full transformation. Schedule a briefing today and start building a website that works for everyone.

    Greg McNeil

    May 6, 2025
    Testing & Remediation

  • How Often Should You Audit Your Website for Accessibility?

    You’ve already put in the effort to make your website accessible—and that’s no small thing. But accessibility isn’t something you fix once and forget. As your site evolves, even small changes can introduce new issues. That’s where regular check-ins come in. A web accessibility audit helps you catch problems early, stay aligned with current standards, and keep your site working for everyone.

    So how often should you audit your site to maintain that progress? The answer depends on what’s changing—and when. In this article, we’ll break down the key moments when an audit makes sense, the risks of letting things slide, and how ongoing monitoring can help you stay ahead.

    Why Web Accessibility Audits Are Critical

    A web accessibility audit reviews your website’s design, code, and content to identify barriers that could make it hard—or even impossible—for people with disabilities to use your site. These audits typically test against the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), and other regulations.

    The risks of not auditing regularly are real for small to midsize businesses. Over the past few years, digital accessibility lawsuits have skyrocketed. In 2024 alone, more than 4,000 web accessibility lawsuits were filed under the ADA—and many of those targeted businesses that were unaware they had an issue.

    The cost of defending even a small ADA lawsuit can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars, not to mention the damage to your brand’s reputation. Proactive audits help you spot and fix issues early, keeping your business protected and your customers happy.

    When Should You Audit Your Website for Accessibility?

    While accessibility should be baked into your website maintenance plan, certain milestones require a full web accessibility audit.

    1. After a Website Redesign or Major Update

    If you’ve recently rebranded, relaunched, or significantly redesigned your site, it’s critical to schedule a full accessibility audit. Even small navigation, layout, or feature changes can unintentionally introduce new barriers. Testing right after major updates ensures you catch and fix issues before customers encounter them—and before a potential lawsuit arises.

    2. Before Launching New Features or Products

    Rolling out a new e-commerce section? Adding a chatbot? Introducing video content or online booking? Before new features go live, a web accessibility audit should be part of your quality assurance checklist.

    New code, third-party integrations, and interactive tools can create accessibility gaps. Testing pre-launch helps ensure all users can interact with the new elements, no matter what device or assistive technology they’re using.

    3. Annually (at Minimum)

    Even if your site hasn’t changed much, accessibility standards, best practices, and legal expectations evolve over time. Conducting a comprehensive web accessibility audit at least once a year ensures your site complies with current WCAG standards (currently WCAG 2.1 and moving toward 2.2) and applicable regulations.

    Think of it like an annual checkup for your digital presence: it’s much easier and cheaper to maintain accessibility than to fix major problems down the road.

    4. After User Feedback or Complaints

    If a customer or visitor flags an accessibility issue, that’s a signal to audit right away—not just the problem area but the entire site. User feedback is invaluable because it often reveals real-world issues automated scans might miss. Addressing concerns quickly shows that your business takes accessibility seriously and is committed to serving all users.

    5. When Laws or Guidelines Change

    New accessibility laws, updates to WCAG standards, or changes in court interpretations can raise the bar for compliance. For instance, the Department of Justice recently released new guidance for web accessibility under Title II of the ADA. When legal standards shift, a fresh audit can make sure you’re aligned with the latest requirements.

    Why Ongoing Monitoring Matters

    While annual or event-based audits are critical, they’re not enough. Websites are dynamic—they grow, change, and update constantly. New products, marketing campaigns, and blog posts can all introduce accessibility problems over time.

    That’s where ongoing accessibility monitoring comes in.

    At 216digital, we developed a11y.Radar, a proactive monitoring service that continuously scans your site for accessibility issues. a11y.Radar doesn’t replace manual audits (human expertise is still key!), but it acts as an early warning system—catching errors before they snowball into bigger problems.

    With a11y.Radar, you can:

    • Receive real-time alerts about accessibility regressions
    • Track ongoing improvements
    • Maintain continuous WCAG compliance
    • Reduce your risk of surprise lawsuits

    This approach helps you move from a reactive stance (“fix it after a lawsuit”) to a proactive one (“prevent lawsuits by staying accessible”).

    The Cost of Skipping Regular Web Accessibility Audits

    Many small to midsize businesses skip regular accessibility audits because of perceived costs or time commitments. But the truth is, not auditing can cost far more.

    Ignoring accessibility can lead to:

    • ADA lawsuits and expensive legal settlements
    • Court-ordered website remediation under tight (and expensive) deadlines
    • Loss of customers who can’t use your site
    • Negative publicity and damage to your brand’s reputation
    • Higher remediation costs later, compared to maintaining accessibility from the start

    Investing in regular audits and monitoring is like insurance for your website—and your business future.

    How 216digital Can Help You Stay Compliant

    At 216digital, we specialize in helping businesses of all sizes navigate the world of web accessibility with confidence. Our phased approach includes:

    • Risk Mitigation Audits: A focused first-pass audit to quickly catch and fix high-risk issues.
    • Real World Accessibility Audits: Deep manual testing with screen readers, keyboard-only navigation, and assistive technologies to find real-world barriers.
    • Ongoing Monitoring with a11y.Radar: Continuous scanning and reporting to help you maintain compliance and stay ahead of risks.

    We believe accessibility isn’t a one-time project—it’s an ongoing commitment. That’s why our services are designed to be flexible, scalable, and tailored to your business needs.

    Whether starting from scratch, redesigning your website, or needing help managing compliance over time, 216digital can help you build and maintain a site that works for everyone—and protects your business simultaneously.

    Keep Progress on Track with Confidence

     Accessibility is never truly finished—but that’s a good thing. It means you have an opportunity to keep improving, keep welcoming, and keep your business open to everyone. Staying compliant isn’t about chasing checklists—it’s about maintaining the trust you’ve already worked hard to earn.If you’re wondering whether now is the right time for your next audit, it probably is. A quick conversation can help clarify where you stand and what steps make sense next. Schedule a free ADA accessibility briefing with 216digital, and let’s keep your site moving forward—securely, inclusively, and confidently.

    Greg McNeil

    April 28, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility, Accessibility Audit, Accessibility testing, automated testing, manual audit, Manual Testing, Website Accessibility

  • What to Expect from an Accessibility Audit

    Running a business is no small feat. Between managing daily operations, keeping customers happy, and staying on top of your digital presence, it’s easy to overlook something like web accessibility. But in today’s world, where more users rely on assistive technology to browse online, accessibility is no longer optional—it’s essential.

    That’s where an accessibility audit comes in. It’s a smart, proactive step that helps you understand how well your website works for people with disabilities and where improvements are needed. It’s not just about avoiding legal trouble—it’s about creating a better experience for all your visitors.

    Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.

    Why Accessibility Matters

    Reaching Every Visitor

    Web accessibility is about making sure everyone can use your website—no matter their ability. That includes people who rely on screen readers, keyboard navigation, or voice control, as well as those with visual, hearing, or cognitive challenges.

    A more accessible site leads to:

    • Better user experience
    • Improved search engine visibility
    • Increased customer trust

    It’s a win for your users and your business.

    Reducing Legal Risk

    ADA-related lawsuits over inaccessible websites are on the rise, and many target small to mid-sized businesses. In fact over 67% of lawsuits  in 2024 were targeting businesses with an annual revenue under $25 million or less. 

    These cases can be stressful and expensive—even if the issues weren’t intentional.

    A professional accessibility audit helps you spot and fix issues early, protecting your business while showing your commitment to inclusion.

    What Is an Accessibility Audit?

    An accessibility audit is a full review of your website to find any barriers that might stop people with disabilities from using it. These barriers could be anything from missing image descriptions to forms that don’t work with a screen reader.

    The audit is based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which provide a clear set of standards for accessible web design. Following WCAG helps ensure your site meets legal requirements—and, more importantly, that it works for everyone.

    The Accessibility Audit Process: Step-by-Step

    Here’s what typically happens during a full accessibility audit:

    Initial Consultation & Scope Definition

    The process starts with a conversation. You and your audit team will review your website’s goals, user flows, and top-priority pages—like your homepage, checkout process, or contact form. This helps focus the audit on what matters most.

    Automated Testing

    Automated tools run quick scans to catch common issues like:

    • Missing alt text
    • Low color contrast
    • Improper heading order

    This is a great first step, but automated testing only catches part of the picture. That’s why manual checks are so important.

    Manual Evaluation

    Accessibility specialists then take a deeper look at your site. They’ll test things like:

    • Can users navigate with just a keyboard?
    • Are screen readers reading content in the correct order?
    • Do buttons and links have clear, accessible labels?

    Manual testing finds the issues that machines often miss—and ensures your site works for real people in real situations.

    User Testing with Assistive Technology

    In some cases, the team may bring in people who use assistive tools daily—like screen readers or alternative input devices—to test your site. Their feedback offers invaluable real-world insight that helps uncover problems no tool or developer could spot alone.

    Documentation of Findings

    Once testing is done, you’ll receive a report that includes:

    • A list of all issues
    • Where each problem exists
    • The specific WCAG criteria it violates
    • Visual examples and code references for clarity

    This report serves as your roadmap to fixing issues efficiently.

    Prioritization of Issues

    Not all issues are created equal. The audit team will help you prioritize based on the following:

    • How severe the issue is
    • How many users it might impact
    • Whether it poses a legal risk

    This lets you address the biggest barriers first and build a smart action plan moving forward.

    Remediation Recommendations

    Finally, you’ll receive clear, actionable guidance for fixing each issue. These recommendations will be tailored to your site’s platform, content, and team capacity. Some fixes might be quick, while others may take more planning—but you’ll know exactly what to do and where to start.

    What Happens After the Audit?

    Implementing Fixes

    After the accessibility audit, it’s time to put the findings to work. Your team—or a trusted partner like 216digital—can help implement those changes, making sure they align with best practices while preserving your brand’s design and functionality.

    Team Training

    To keep your site accessible over time, it helps to train the people who update it. That could mean a short session on how to use alt text or a checklist for adding new content. A little knowledge goes a long way in preventing future issues.

    Ongoing Monitoring

    Accessibility isn’t something you check off once and forget about. Websites are living things—they change, grow, and update over time. That means new accessibility issues can pop up without warning, especially as content is added or platforms evolve.

    That’s why regular monitoring is key. Running periodic scans, reviewing key pages, and staying alert to new barriers helps you maintain accessibility long after the initial audit. Tools like a11y.Radar, 216digital’s ongoing monitoring service, are designed to make this easier. It quietly keeps tabs on your site, flags issues early, and helps ensure your site stays in line with accessibility best practices—without the need for constant manual checks.

    Your Website’s Future Just Got Brighter

    A professional accessibility audit gives you more than just a report—it gives you peace of mind. It’s a smart, future-focused way to protect your business, improve your site, and welcome every visitor who comes your way.

    At 216digital, we specialize in helping small to mid-sized businesses make sense of accessibility. Our expert-led audits, clear documentation, and hands-on remediation support make the process easy to follow and effective to implement. We help you go beyond compliance—to a website that’s truly inclusive.

    If you’re ready to create a better experience for everyone and reduce your legal risk, let’s talk. A more accessible site isn’t just better for users—it’s better for business.

    Greg McNeil

    April 15, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility, Accessibility Audit, Accessibility testing, automated testing, manual audit, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility

  • How 216digital Makes Accessibility Remediation Simple

    If you’re a small or mid-sized business owner, you’ve probably heard stories about other businesses getting hit with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) web accessibility lawsuits. Often, these lawsuits come out of nowhere, catching website owners by surprise. You might not even know what you did wrong, why your site was targeted, or how to fix it. It’s frustrating, and it’s scary. Even if you haven’t faced a lawsuit yet, you could be worried about your level of risk. Nobody wants a legal headache—especially not when you’re already juggling everything else that goes into running a business.

    Here at 216digital, our goal is to change the conversation around web accessibility. We help small to mid-sized businesses protect themselves from costly accessibility lawsuits while also making websites more inclusive for everyone. Instead of quick fixes that only look good on the surface, we focus on lasting solutions through real accessibility remediation. By partnering with us, you’re not just avoiding legal trouble—you’re also improving every visitor’s experience on your site. Good access equals good business.

    In this article, we’re going to break down what web accessibility actually means, how our services work, and why our people-focused approach sets us apart from companies that might rely on short-term, fear-based tactics. We’ll also show you how to schedule a free ADA briefing so you can gain clarity on your level of risk and figure out the next steps to make your site welcoming to all.

    What Is Web Accessibility, Really?

    Understanding the Basics

    The term “web accessibility” can feel intimidating if you haven’t delved into it before. But when you boil it down, it’s quite straightforward: web accessibility means designing and updating your website so that people with disabilities can use it just as smoothly as everyone else. This includes visitors who use screen readers, rely on keyboard navigation, need larger text, or have other accessibility requirements.

    Accessibility Helps Everyone

    Making a site more accessible often has bonus benefits for everyone. For example, clearer website structure can improve your overall user experience, boost your SEO (search engine optimization), and make your site more user-friendly across different devices. In other words, meeting accessibility standards isn’t just about legal risk—it’s also about creating a smoother experience for all your visitors. That’s why accessibility remediation is such a critical part of a business’s digital strategy.

    The Problem: Why Lawsuits Are Happening

    Why the Legal Risk Is Growing

    Over the past few years, courts have increasingly treated websites as “places of public accommodation,” meaning they fall under rules that require them to be accessible to people with disabilities. This has led to a spike in legal actions against businesses—some well-intentioned (from people who genuinely can’t access certain sites) and others more opportunistic, aiming to force quick settlements.

    Proactive Prevention with Remediation

    Either way, if your website has accessibility barriers, you could end up with a lawsuit or a demand letter. That often means paying lawyer fees, making sudden updates to your site under intense time pressure, and dealing with stress you never saw coming.

    At 216digital, our approach is all about preventing these problems before they happen. Through comprehensive accessibility remediation, we don’t want you to face that unexpected expense or crisis moment. Instead, we want to set you up for success by making sure your site meets recognized accessibility standards in a thorough, sustainable way.

    How 216digital Helps You Meet Accessibility Standards

    1. Risk-First Approach: Stop Lawsuits Before They Start

    When you bring us on board, we don’t just run a quick scan of your site and hand you a list of potential problems. A quick list is a start, but it doesn’t actually fix anything. Instead, we take a risk-first approach. We identify the areas of your site most likely to trigger a lawsuit and tackle them right away. This rapid response significantly reduces your potential exposure.

    From there, we proceed through the rest of your site, ensuring all content and functions align with trusted accessibility standards. That way, you’re not left vulnerable to new complaints popping up in the future. That’s the difference between surface-level adjustments and meaningful accessibility remediation.

    2. Full WCAG Implementation (The Gold Standard for Accessibility)

    If you’ve done even a little reading on accessibility, you’ve likely seen mention of WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). Judges, lawyers, and advocacy groups generally refer to WCAG 2.1 for determining whether a site is accessible. These guidelines cover areas like color contrast, text size, navigation, labels, and much more—essentially the nuts and bolts of a properly accessible website.

    At 216digital, we don’t guess at what might be acceptable; we follow a systematic process to ensure your site aligns with WCAG 2.1 AA standards. We conduct thorough manual reviews along with automated checks to verify real-world accessibility, not just box-ticking. Our team’s hands-on accessibility remediation work results in a site that is recognized as accessible by the broader web community.

    3. Ongoing Monitoring with a11y.Radar

    A frequent misconception is that fixing accessibility barriers is a one-time job. In reality, websites are ever-evolving. You add new pages, adjust your site design, or change your content management system. Each of these updates can unintentionally introduce fresh barriers or break fixes you’ve made in the past.

    That’s why we built a11y.Radar. It’s our specialized monitoring tool that consistently keeps an eye on your site, even after you’ve addressed the initial round of accessibility issues. a11y.Radar periodically checks if new problems have cropped up or if previously fixed areas have broken. With this in place, your accessibility remediation efforts stay intact, and you can relax, knowing you’re not being blindsided by hidden hurdles.

    4. Hands-On Guidance and Support

    Technical expertise is crucial, but we believe that easy-to-understand communication is just as important. Our team provides one-on-one support and guidance, answering questions you have about accessibility guidelines, legal implications, and the practical steps to ensure your site meets the right standards.

    • Plain-Language Explanations: We won’t drown you in legal or tech jargon.
    • Training Resources: If your developers or content team need training to maintain accessibility remediation practices, we’re happy to help.
    • Personalized Assistance: Every website is different, so we don’t force you into a cookie-cutter solution.

    We want you to feel confident about your site’s accessibility, not left in the dark about what’s happening behind the scenes.

    Why We’re Different from Other Accessibility Companies

    We’re Not Selling Fear—We’re Solving a Real Problem

    Let’s be honest: lawsuits are a genuine risk, and the ADA is taken seriously in court. But 216digital’s mission is to educate you, not terrify you. We want to give you a clear understanding of what’s at stake and how you can proactively protect your business. Scare tactics aren’t our style. Instead, we rely on proven, professional accessibility remediation to resolve real issues.

    No Overlays, No Shortcuts

    Some companies push accessibility “overlays” that claim to magically solve every potential issue. While these might address a few surface-level features (like text resizing or color contrast toggles), they rarely fix deeper code-level or structural issues—and sometimes even introduce new difficulties.

    At 216digital, our philosophy is to fix your site at the source. We go into the code and address each issue thoroughly. Yes, it’s more work. But the results are genuine and reflect real progress that stands the test of time. That’s the power of full-scale accessibility remediation.

    We’re a Small Team That Cares

    We’ve been around for more than 25 years. In that time, we’ve supported hundreds of businesses across industries, from e-commerce shops to local service providers. We know what it’s like to run a small or medium-sized business, and we treat your goals and concerns with respect. We’re also proud to say we’re a tight-knit crew. When you call us, you’ll speak to real people who care about your success—and who care deeply about getting your accessibility remediation right.

    Ready to Talk? Let’s Schedule Your ADA Briefing

    Worried your website might have accessibility barriers? Not sure if you’re at risk for a lawsuit? We offer a free ADA briefing to help you figure out your next move. It’s a no-pressure conversation where you’ll learn what’s really happening on your site and how we can help.

    • Site Assessment: We take a basic look at your site to spot any glaring red flags.
    • Risk Overview: We talk about possible risks that could leave you open to legal action.
    • Options & Timeline: We lay out what solutions might look like, with a sense of how long and how much effort they might take.

    We’re not here to push a sales pitch—just to share our expertise and help you make the best decision. If you decide to work with us, awesome! If not, at least you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of your situation and how to move forward.


    If you’re ready to stop wondering about your site’s accessibility status and start taking proactive steps, reach out to schedule your free ADA briefing. We’ll explain everything you need to know in a straightforward, understandable way. Fill out our contact form below  or schedule online today at 216digital.com/ada-briefing. We can’t wait to hear from you and show you how simple real accessibility remediation can be.

    Greg McNeil

    April 7, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, Accessibility testing, automated testing, Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Remediation, Website Accessibility

  • Automated Scans: The Good, the Bad, and the Gaps

    Creating a truly inclusive online experience means making sure everyone can comfortably navigate and enjoy your website. If your business aims to meet accessibility guidelines like WCAG and comply with laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), you’ve probably considered automated accessibility scans as a helpful first step. Popular tools like WAVE, PowerMapper, and Google Lighthouse can swiftly highlight accessibility issues, making them a practical starting point.

    But here’s the thing—automated scans aren’t magic. They typically catch only about 20-30% of accessibility problems covered by WCAG 2.1 AA, mostly basic mistakes. Many important issues need a human touch—manual testing and real judgment—to make sure your website truly serves everyone. This article breaks down what automated scans do well, where they fall short, and tackles some common misconceptions, helping you build a complete, effective approach to digital accessibility.

    The Good: Why Automated Accessibility Scans Are Helpful

    Automated accessibility scans offer a quick and practical way to uncover accessibility problems. Here’s why they’re so beneficial:

    1. Speed and Efficiency Automated tools can quickly scan your entire website within minutes, analyzing hundreds or even thousands of pages. They’re perfect for frequent or large-scale audits without overwhelming your resources.

    2. Consistent Results Unlike manual tests, automated scans apply the same criteria every time, ensuring consistent results across your entire site.

    3. Budget-Friendly Initial Assessment For businesses working with tight budgets, automated scans offer an affordable way to spot common issues, helping you take immediate action without the hefty costs of comprehensive manual audits.

    4. Quickly Spots Easy-to-Fix Issues Automated scans excel at identifying straightforward problems such as missing alternative text for images, insufficient color contrast, empty form labels, and poorly labeled buttons.

    5. Fits Seamlessly into Development Workflows Modern accessibility tools integrate directly with your existing development processes, allowing teams to catch and fix issues early on—saving time and reducing future remediation costs.

    The Bad: Limitations of Automated Scans

    To avoid a false sense of security, organizations need to understand the limitations of automated scans:

    1. Can’t Identify Contextual Issues Automated tools aren’t great at judging context. For example:

    • Alternative Text: They detect missing alt text but can’t determine if descriptions are actually helpful.
    • Keyboard Navigation: Tools may confirm elements are focusable but can’t judge ease of use.
    • Form Usability: Automated scans notice if labels exist, but can’t assess how easy forms are to use.

    2. Struggles with Dynamic Content Automated tools often miss dynamic and interactive content, such as:

    • ARIA implementations
    • Live region updates
    • Changes in modal dialogs or dropdowns

    3. False Positives and False Negatives Automated scans sometimes flag issues that aren’t real barriers (false positives) or overlook genuine problems (false negatives), potentially causing unnecessary work or leaving critical issues unaddressed.

    4. Not a Substitute for Real User Testing Automated scans can’t replicate the experience of actual users who rely on assistive technology. Only manual testing and real user feedback can fully validate accessibility.

    5. Risk of Legal Issues Relying solely on automated scans won’t guarantee full legal compliance. Courts consistently rule that automated tools alone aren’t enough, potentially exposing organizations to legal action.

    The Gaps: Bridging Automation with Human Insight

    To build a truly accessible website, combine automated testing with manual evaluation:

    1. Mix Automated and Manual Testing A comprehensive audit should include both automated and manual methods. Automated tools give a broad initial review, while manual testing covers the usability and context these tools miss.

    2. Perform Real-World Testing with Screen Readers and Keyboards Manual tests with screen readers and keyboard navigation ensure your website is practically accessible in real-world use.

    3. Get Expert Audits Professional accessibility audits blend automated tools, manual testing, and real-user scenarios, uncovering hidden issues automated scans might overlook.

    4. Continuously Monitor Accessibility Accessibility isn’t a one-time fix. Regular monitoring with tools like a11y.Radar helps maintain compliance even as your website evolves.

    5. Educate Your Team Training your developers, designers, and content creators on accessibility best practices minimizes future issues. Automated tools should guide—not replace—human judgment.

    Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

    Automated accessibility scans are fantastic for quickly identifying common issues but aren’t enough on their own. Recognizing their limitations highlights why manual testing, expert reviews, and ongoing monitoring are vital. Businesses committed to digital accessibility should adopt a balanced approach, combining automated tools with human insights to ensure truly inclusive experiences. If you’re looking for guidance or support in building this balanced approach, the experts at 216digital can help you navigate your accessibility journey. Ultimately, accessibility is about genuinely understanding and meeting real users’ needs, going beyond mere compliance.

    Greg McNeil

    March 17, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility, automated scans, automated testing, manual audit, Manual Testing, Web Accessibility

  • How Automated Scans Help (and Fail) Accessibility

    Have you ever clicked on a website and immediately gotten lost because nothing seemed to work the way you expected? Maybe you couldn’t find the right button, or the page layout was all over the place. Now imagine facing those same frustrations but with the added challenge of a visual, auditory, or motor disability. Navigating the web shouldn’t feel like an obstacle course—it should be intuitive and inclusive for everyone.

    If you’re a website owner or business owner in the United States, you might already know that accessibility is becoming more than just a nice-to-have. It’s a key part of good customer service, protects you from legal risks, and, quite simply, it’s the right thing to do. But where do you start?

    One of the first steps many people take is running automated scans.

    These scans promise a quick way to spot accessibility issues on your site. Yet, while they can be extremely helpful, they’re far from perfect. In this article, we’ll explore the ups and downs of automated scans—what they can do, where they fail, and how to blend them into a solid strategy that also includes manual testing and expert help.

    What Are Automated Accessibility Scans?

    Automated scans are software tools that crawl through your website’s code, looking for red flags based on standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)). Think of these tools like the spellcheck in your word processor: they can spot a lot of mistakes, but they can’t always tell you if you’re using the right words in the right context.

    What Do Automated Scans Detect?

    Plenty of free and paid tools exist. Some are browser extensions (like WAVE or Google’s Lighthouse), while others are built-in services that run regular checks on your website. They’re great at picking up on common coding issues such as:

    • Missing or poorly written alternative text on images
    • Low color contrast between text and background
    • Improper heading levels (skipping from an H1 to an H3 without an H2, for example)
    • Misapplied ARIA attributes
    • Certain missing form labels

    If your site has glaring accessibility mistakes, automated scans can flag those quickly. They’ll often give you a handy list of what’s wrong, along with references to WCAG guidelines or best practices on how to fix each issue. That’s a huge benefit if you’re new to accessibility and need a push in the right direction.

    How Automated Scans Can Help You

    Let’s look at some of the biggest advantages of automated scans—and how they fit into your overall web development workflow.

    Speed and Efficiency

    Manual reviews take time, especially for large websites. An automated tool, on the other hand, can process hundreds or even thousands of pages in a shorter timeframe. This is especially handy if you regularly add or change content.

    Spotting the “No-Brainers”

    Many accessibility issues are straightforward coding mistakes—like forgetting to add “alt” text to images. Automated scanners are perfect for picking up on these. They’re quick, consistent, and thorough in locating these common errors.

    Routine Monitoring

    Some automated scan tools offer scheduled checks, which is terrific for ongoing maintenance. You can set them to run weekly or monthly scans and then get alerts if something new pops up, letting you address problems before they spiral.

    Raising Awareness

    For those brand-new to digital accessibility, automated tools can serve as a mini crash course. They highlight rules like ensuring sufficient color contrast or labeling form fields properly, helping you learn accessibility basics as you go.

    Ease of Use

    Many automated scanners come with user-friendly dashboards or plugins. You don’t have to be a coding genius to interpret most of the results. Often, the tool itself provides guidance on how to fix whatever it finds.

    The Real-World Limitations of Automated Scans

    As powerful as they are, automated scans also have notable blind spots (no pun intended). If you rely solely on these tools, you could end up with a site that technically passes certain checks but still feels like a maze for users with disabilities.

    Lack of Context

    A scanner can confirm if there’s alt text on an image, but it can’t determine if that text is accurate or helpful. An automated report might be happy to see you labeled your button as “Button,” but that label doesn’t tell a user what the button actually does.

    Missing Nuances

    Some accessibility aspects aren’t purely code-based; they’re about user experience and clarity. For example, is your site’s language too complicated for people with cognitive disabilities? Or is the layout tricky for those navigating with a screen reader? Automated tools struggle with these questions because they can’t judge user-friendliness the same way a person can.

    False Flags

    It’s common to get false positives (where the tool flags a problem that might not actually be a problem) or false negatives (where the tool fails to spot a genuine issue). This can lead you down the wrong path or lull you into thinking your site is perfectly fine when it’s not.

    Limited Scenarios

    Accessibility is more than code. What happens when someone uses only a keyboard to navigate your site? Or how does your site work for someone who relies on voice commands or a screen reader? Automated scans can’t replicate all these scenarios.

    Overconfidence and the Need for Manual Testing

    Automated tools can create a false sense of security. Just because a scanner says you’re 90% accessible doesn’t mean your site is truly welcoming for all. This is where manual testing comes in.

    Beyond the Scan: Why Manual Testing Still Rules

    Manual testing is where you or a tester interacts with your site in a more human way. Yes, it’s more time-intensive, but it’s also where you’ll uncover issues an automated tool can’t detect.

    Keyboard-Only Navigation

    One of the most fundamental manual tests is trying to tab through your site without using a mouse. If you can’t reach a menu item or submit a form using only the keyboard, that’s a major red flag.

    Screen Reader Assessments

    Automated scans might say you have alt text in all the right places, but only a real screen reader test will tell you if that text makes sense in context. Does it describe important images properly? Does the reading order make sense, or does it jump around the page?

    Real Users, Real Feedback

    Inviting people with various disabilities to use your site can reveal issues you never even knew existed. Maybe certain wording is confusing, or a CAPTCHA system is impossible to complete using assistive technology. Nothing beats firsthand feedback.

    Manual testing fills the gaps that scanners leave behind, ensuring your site isn’t just “passing a test” but actually creating a positive experience. While it can require more resources (time and possibly hiring outside help), the results are worth it.

    Keeping Accessibility an Ongoing Priority

    Accessibility isn’t something you do once and forget about. Think of your website as a living, breathing entity: you add content, tweak layouts, and launch new features over time. Each change could introduce fresh accessibility challenges.

    So, how exactly do automated scans fit into a more complete approach to accessibility?

    Putting It All Together: A Holistic Accessibility Game Plan

    1. Start with an Automated Scan – Run a scan and fix low-hanging fruit, such as missing alt text and color contrast problems.
    2. Add Manual Checks – Navigate your site using only a keyboard and a screen reader. Identify areas that feel confusing or broken.
    3. Get Professional Input – If your site is critical to your business, hire an accessibility specialist for a thorough audit.
    4. Keep It Going – Schedule periodic scans, manual audits, and staff training. Accessibility should be part of your workflow.
    5. Stay Informed – Follow updates to WCAG and relevant U.S. laws, and continue learning from accessibility experts.

    The Best of Both Worlds: Automated and Manual Testing

    Achieving true web accessibility requires more than just running a quick scan—it demands a balanced approach that combines the speed of automation with the insight of manual testing. Automated tools can help identify glaring issues, but only real human interaction can ensure a seamless experience for all users. By integrating both strategies, you’re not just checking a compliance box—you’re creating a more inclusive, user-friendly web presence that benefits everyone.

    Start your journey toward full web accessibility today—reach out to 216digital using the form below! Our team of accessibility experts is ready to assess your site and provide tailored solutions to ensure that all visitors can easily access your content. Don’t let accessibility remain an afterthought—take the first step towards a more inclusive online presence now.

    Greg McNeil

    February 13, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility Audit, Accessibility testing, automated testing, manual audit, Manual Testing, Web Accessibility
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