Accessibility testing Archives /Tag

Using NVDA to Test Web Accessibility
Making your website accessible isn’t just a checkbox to tick—it’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome. Imagine trying to browse a site only to hit wall after wall because it wasn’t designed with all users in mind—that’s the reality for millions of people with disabilities. One of the most effective ways to understand and improve your site’s accessibility is by testing it with tools like NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access). NVDA is a free, open-source screen reader for Windows that provides audio feedback, enabling users who are blind or visually impaired to explore and interact with digital content.

If you’re a developer or designer aiming to make your website user-friendly for everyone, testing with NVDA can be a real eye-opener. This guide will walk you through everything you need to get started—from setting up NVDA to identifying common accessibility barriers. We’ll also compare NVDA with other screen readers and share tips on integrating accessibility checks into your workflow.

Why Testing with a Screen Reader Matters

Testing with a screen reader is crucial for building websites that everyone can use and enjoy. Did you know that over 8 million people in the United States have a visual disability? Worldwide, an estimated 2.2 billion people are affected by some form of visual impairment. That’s a considerable number of users who rely on screen readers like NVDA to navigate the web. Yet, despite this need, studies show that 95.9% of the world’s top million homepages still have detectable accessibility issues, many of which directly impact screen reader users.

Common Accessibility Barriers

While standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) exist to help ensure content is accessible, there’s still a gap between ticking the compliance boxes and actual usability. Some common accessibility barriers impacting screen reader users include:
- Missing or Incorrect Alt Text: Without alt text, images lack context, making it hard for users to understand what’s on the page.
- Improper Heading Structure: Jumping from an H1 to an H3 heading (and skipping H2) can make navigating a page disorienting.
- Inadequate Link Descriptions: Using link text like “Click here” doesn’t tell users where the link will take them.
- Lack of Keyboard Navigation: If elements aren’t reachable by the keyboard, users may not be able to navigate away from certain sections.
By testing your site with a screen reader like NVDA, you can spot and fix these barriers directly, ensuring your content is genuinely usable—not just technically accessible. This step is vital for engaging a wide audience, including customers who rely on screen readers for equal access.

Plus, by prioritizing screen reader accessibility, you’re not just meeting legal requirements; you’re showing that your brand values inclusivity, which can resonate with customers and build loyalty.

Getting Started with NVDA

Ready to dive in? First, you’ll need to install NVDA on a Windows computer. Just head over to its official website and follow the straightforward instructions. Once it’s installed, take a few minutes to explore the settings. NVDA lets you adjust things like speed, voice pitch, and how much information it reads out loud. Tweaking these settings can make your screen reader testing smoother and help you catch all the essential details without getting distracted.

Understanding the Basics of NVDA

At first glance, NVDA might seem a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry—once you get the hang of a few essential controls, you’ll be navigating like a pro. The main control is the Insert key, which you use along with other keys to execute commands. For example, pressing Insert + Spacebar toggles between browse and focus modes, showing how users move between different sections and interact with elements on your site.

Key Shortcuts to Know
- Tab: Move through interactive elements like buttons and links.
- Shift + Tab: Go back through items, helping you check the flow of navigation.
- H: Navigate through headings in sequence (Shift + H moves backward), which is crucial for accessibility.
- K for links or G for graphics: Jump to specific content, helping you quickly assess if important items are accessible.
Testing for Accessibility Barriers with NVDA

Once you’re comfortable with NVDA, it’s time to put your website to the test. The goal is to see how easy (or difficult) it is for a screen reader user to find and understand information on your site.

Check Your Navigation Structure

Screen reader users rely heavily on clear navigation. Headings should be marked in a logical order, and the Tab key should move through items sensibly. As you use NVDA, please pay close attention to how it announces headings, links, and interactive elements. For instance, links labeled “Read More” can be confusing, while “Learn More About Our Services” is much more straightforward. Descriptive link text is vital to helping screen reader users navigate confidently.

Confirm Image Descriptions

Proper alt text is a must for images. Use the G key to move through images and listen to the descriptions NVDA reads aloud. The alt text doesn’t need to be lengthy—just informative enough to give users an idea of the image’s purpose.

For additional information about alt text, read our article “Understanding Image Alt Text Descriptions.”

Test Interactive Elements Like Forms

Forms can be tricky for screen reader users if they’re not labeled well. As you move through form fields, listen to the labels NVDA reads. Each field should have a clear label, and error messages should be accessible, too. Testing with NVDA can reveal unlabeled fields or hidden error messages that might make filling out forms difficult.

Common Accessibility Barriers to Watch For

Using NVDA can help you spot common barriers that affect accessibility:
- Keyboard Traps: These occur when users get stuck in one part of the page. Use the Tab and Shift + Tab keys to move around; if you find yourself stuck, it’s likely a keyboard trap.
- Focus Indicators: Screen reader users (and keyboard users in general) need a visible marker to show where they are on the page. Test this by tabbing through your site to see if each interactive element has a clear indicator.
- Content Flow: Listen to your site in linear order, from top to bottom. Does it make sense as you go? Unclear structure or skipped headings can confuse users trying to navigate the content in a meaningful order.
Documenting What You Find

As you test, it’s helpful to document any issues you come across. Be specific: note where each issue happens, what the problem is, and why it’s an accessibility issue. For example, if a button lacks a label, describe which button it is, where it’s located, and how this impacts screen reader users. Including step-by-step details on how you tested (like key sequences or what NVDA readout) can also help your team quickly recreate and fix the issue.

Trying Out Other Screen Readers

While NVDA is a fantastic tool, remember that users rely on different screen readers like JAWS or VoiceOver on Apple devices. Testing with more than one screen reader can uncover accessibility issues that one tool might miss. NVDA is particularly good with dynamic content and ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes. So, if you can, try testing with multiple screen readers to get a fuller picture of your site’s accessibility.

Making Accessibility Part of Your Process

Accessibility testing with NVDA shouldn’t be a one-time thing—it works best when it’s part of your development process from the start. By catching issues early, you’ll avoid significant fixes later and create a better experience for everyone. During design, consider accessibility-friendly patterns like high-contrast colors and adjustable font sizes. During development, use NVDA to test as you go and do a final check once your site is live.

And if possible, getting feedback from users with disabilities can be incredibly valuable. While NVDA can help you simulate a screen reader experience, real users bring real-world insights that can highlight usability issues you might not think of.

Wrapping Up

Using NVDA to test your website’s accessibility is a powerful step toward creating a more inclusive online experience, but there’s so much more to accessibility than just technical adjustments—it’s about making your site welcoming to everyone, including customers who rely on assistive technology.

To help you navigate the broader world of ADA compliance and web accessibility, consider scheduling a briefing with 216digital. Our team can walk you through key accessibility requirements, share insights into your site’s current compliance level, and guide you on building a sustainable, accessible web presence. Let’s work together to make your website an inclusive, welcoming space for all users. Schedule your ADA briefing with 216digital today, and take the next step toward true digital accessibility.
kadmin

November 5, 2024

How-to Guides

Accessibility, Accessibility testing, ADA Compliance, NVDA, web developers, Website Accessibility
Is Your Website ADA-Compliant?
Ever wonder if your website is truly welcoming to all visitors? It’s easy to think, “My site looks great. It works smoothly—why worry?” But here’s the catch: a good-looking, functional site isn’t always an accessible one. And if your website isn’t ADA compliant, you could be unintentionally shutting the door on a massive group of potential visitors and customers—people with disabilities.

Let’s put it this way: imagine if a brick-and-mortar store had narrow, cluttered aisles or no ramps. Customers with mobility challenges would struggle to get in or move around. Now, think of your website as that store. If it isn’t built with accessibility in mind, visitors with disabilities may find it impossible to navigate, use, or even understand what you’re offering.

So, is your website ADA-compliant? If you’re not sure or have never checked, this guide is for you. We’ll break down what ADA compliance means, why it matters, the standards to follow, and how you can ensure your site is welcoming to all. Ready to see if your online space meets the mark? Let’s dive in.

Why ADA Compliance Matters

Making sure your website is ADA-compliant isn’t just a box to check off—it’s a vital part of running a business that’s inclusive and future-proof. An accessible website means everyone, regardless of ability, can navigate, engage with, and enjoy your content. This approach not only helps build trust and loyalty but can also increase your audience and improve user satisfaction. And let’s not forget, it comes with important legal and business benefits.

Legal Implications

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that businesses—including their websites—be accessible to everyone. If your site isn’t ADA-compliant, you could be in for a rough ride. The number of ADA-related lawsuits has been rising fast. In 2023, for instance, over 4,500 web accessibility lawsuits were filed in the U.S., which was a 15% increase from the year before, according to UsableNet.

Courts have been clear that digital spaces are covered by the ADA, even though it was created before the internet as we know it existed. And it’s not just big businesses being targeted—small and medium-sized businesses have also found themselves in legal hot water over inaccessible sites. Legal fees, settlements, and potential damage to your reputation can add up quickly, costing far more than making your website compliant in the first place. By focusing on accessibility, you’re not just protecting your business; you’re showing that inclusivity is a priority.

Expanding Your Audience

Making your site ADA-compliant isn’t just about sidestepping legal issues—it’s also about reaching more people. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 1 billion people globally live with some form of disability. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that 26% of adults have some kind of disability. This includes a wide range of challenges, from visual and hearing impairments to mobility and cognitive issues.

Think about it: if your website is easier to use for people with disabilities, you’re opening your doors to a vast number of potential customers who might have otherwise struggled with your site. In fact, a study in the U.K. found that 71% of users with disabilities will leave a site that’s hard to use, and 82% of them are willing to spend more on a site that’s accessible. That’s a lot of potential revenue and customer loyalty that can be yours just by making your site more inclusive.

Understanding Web Accessibility Standards

To create an accessible website, it’s essential to understand key standards, particularly the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These guidelines, developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), provide a roadmap for making web content more accessible to people with disabilities.

Key Principles of WCAG

The WCAG outlines four fundamental principles, often remembered by the acronym POUR:
1. Perceivable: Information must be presented in ways that users can perceive. This means providing text alternatives for images, using captions for videos, and ensuring sufficient contrast between text and background colors.
2. Operable: Users should be able to navigate the site using various methods. This includes keyboard navigation and the ability to pause or stop animations.
3. Understandable: Content and navigation must be easy to understand. This includes using clear language, consistent navigation, and proper labeling of forms.
4. Robust: Content should be compatible with various technologies, including assistive technologies like screen readers. This means writing clean, semantic HTML.
By adhering to these principles, you’ll be well on your way to creating a more accessible website.

Common Barriers to Web Accessibility

Even with the best intentions, many websites still have barriers that prevent people with disabilities from accessing their content. Here are a few common issues:

Images Without Alt Text

Images can be a significant barrier if they don’t have descriptive alt text. Alt text is essential for users who rely on screen readers, as it provides context about the image.

Poor Color Contrast

If the contrast between your text and background is too low, it can be challenging for individuals with visual impairments to read your content. Aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text.

Inaccessible Forms

Forms are often problematic. If they lack labels or instructions, users with disabilities may find it challenging to fill them out. Always ensure that forms are correctly labeled and provide clear instructions.

Lack of Keyboard Navigation

Many users with disabilities rely on keyboard navigation rather than a mouse. If your website doesn’t support this, it can create significant barriers.

Testing Your Website for Accessibility

Now that you understand the importance of ADA compliance and common barriers, how do you ensure your website is accessible? Here are some methods for testing your site:

Manual Checks

Begin with manual checks of your website. Go through your site using only the keyboard. Can you navigate easily? Test your forms to see if they’re usable without a mouse. This basic level of testing can reveal a lot about your site’s accessibility.

Automated Tools

Automated accessibility testing tools can help identify many common issues quickly. Here are a few popular options:
- WAVE: This browser extension evaluates accessibility and highlights issues on your page.
- Lighthouse: Built into Chrome’s developer tools, Lighthouse provides audits of various web aspects, including accessibility.
While these tools are helpful, they don’t catch everything. They should be used in conjunction with manual checks to ensure a truly ADA-compliant website.

User Testing with Assistive Technologies

The best way to understand how ADA-compliant your site truly is is to test it with real users who have disabilities.
- Screen Readers: Ask users to navigate your site using popular screen readers like JAWS or NVDA.
- Keyboard Navigation: Observe how users interact with your site using only a keyboard.
Getting feedback from users with disabilities will give you insights that automated tools might miss.

Practical Steps to Improve Accessibility

Once you’ve identified accessibility issues on your site, what should you do next? Here are some practical steps you can take:
- Start with an Accessibility Audit: Before making any changes, conduct a comprehensive audit of your website. Use both automated tools and manual checks to identify barriers.
- Prioritize Quick Wins: Addressing some accessibility issues can take time, but there are many “quick wins” you can tackle right away.
- Implement Staff Training and Awareness: Accessibility is not just a one-person job. Ensure your content creators, developers, and designers are trained on best practices for maintaining and improving web accessibility.
- Monitor Accessibility Consistently: Regular audits are essential, but ongoing monitoring ensures that new updates don’t introduce issues. Services like 216digital’s a11y.Radar can help by continuously checking for compliance and alerting you to new challenges.
Conclusion

Making sure your website is ADA-compliant is more than just checking a legal box—it’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome. Prioritizing accessibility can open your business to a wider audience, boost user satisfaction, and even shield you from potential legal issues. But let’s be honest: navigating the ins and outs of accessibility can feel overwhelming.

That’s where we come in. At 216digital, we’re here to make it simple. Schedule an ADA briefing with us to find out if your website is at risk and how we can help make it more inclusive. Don’t wait until there’s a problem; get ahead of it and show your commitment to accessibility today. Your future customers (and your peace of mind) will thank you!
Greg McNeil

October 30, 2024

Legal Compliance

Accessibility testing, ADA Compliance, ADA Lawsuit, WCAG, Web Accessibility
A Case for Starting Accessibility Early in Development
When you’re kicking off a new web project, it’s easy to focus on exciting features and visual design. But here’s something that often gets pushed aside until it’s almost too late: accessibility. The truth? Accessibility isn’t just a box to check off at the end of development; it’s a fundamental part of creating an inclusive, user-friendly experience from day one. To truly succeed, you need to start accessibility early.

Think about it: no one wants to realize their new website or app needs major tweaks just to be usable for everyone. Starting accessibility early not only benefits people with disabilities but boosts usability for all your users, saves you money, and keeps you in line with standards like Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). And who doesn’t want to avoid headaches later on?

Let’s break down why embedding accessibility into your project from the very beginning is worth every bit of effort—and how to make it happen smoothly.

Why Start Accessibility Planning from the Beginning?

Making accessibility a priority from day one can feel like a big commitment, but here’s what you gain by choosing to start accessibility early:

Avoid Costly Retrofits

Fixing accessibility issues at the end of a project can mean reworking significant parts of your site—an expensive and time-consuming ordeal. Imagine designing your site, launching it, and then realizing it doesn’t meet accessibility standards. Adding features like keyboard navigation or fixing color contrast at that point can mean redoing large chunks of your design. Planning for these details early on keeps everything smoother (and kinder on your budget).

Enhance User Experience for All

When you start accessibility early, you set the stage for a user experience that is friendly and inclusive for everyone. Accessibility isn’t just for those with disabilities—it’s for everyone. Features like clear navigation, easy-to-read text, and well-labeled elements make browsing better for all users. Designing with accessibility in mind from the start ensures these benefits are baked in, rather than added later.

Stay Compliant and Avoid Legal Issues

Starting with WCAG standards and other accessibility guidelines from the get-go helps you avoid legal hiccups. These guidelines form the backbone of inclusive web design and ensure you’re in line with regulations like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Following these rules early on makes compliance one less thing to worry about.

How to Integrate Accessibility into Each Stage of Development

Accessibility can be woven into every phase of your project with just a bit of planning. Here are some actionable steps for developers and designers:

Design with Accessibility in Mind

From the beginning, designers play a critical role in accessibility by setting the structure and visual flow of a project. Here are a few accessibility best practices to incorporate during the design phase:

Color Contrast and Readability

Make sure your text is easy to read against its background. According to WCAG guidelines, regular text should have at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio, while larger text should have a 3:1 contrast ratio. Testing tools like WebAIM’s Color Contrast Checker make this quick and easy to verify.

Intuitive Layout and Navigation

A clear, intuitive layout ensures all users can navigate your site. Place navigation elements consistently, keep forms simple, and use ample white space to make content easier to digest. These are just a few examples of how to start accessibility early in your design strategy.

Descriptive Text for Buttons and Links

Buttons and links should have descriptive text that tells the user exactly what will happen when they click. Instead of a vague “click here,” label it with “Learn More About Accessibility,” for example. Clear labels improve navigation for users and assistive technologies alike.

Use the Right HTML Tags

Developers can make a huge impact when they start accessibility early by using semantic HTML. Semantic HTML tags—like <header>, <main>, <nav>, and <footer>—convey the structure of your webpage to screen readers and other assistive devices, helping users navigate more effectively.

Proper HTML Markup

Use headings (<h1>, <h2>, etc.) in a logical order, and never skip heading levels. This creates a clear hierarchy for users relying on screen readers and assists everyone in navigating your content.

Descriptive Alt Text for Images

Screen readers rely on alternative text (alt text) to describe images to visually impaired users. Ensure every image with meaningful content has a description that conveys what’s in the image or its purpose. If the image is purely decorative, use an empty alt attribute (e.g., alt=" ") to signal to screen readers that it can be ignored.

ARIA Attributes

Accessible Rich Internet Applications (ARIA) roles and attributes provide additional context where HTML alone may fall short. For example, you can use aria-label to describe the function of a button or aria-live to notify screen readers of real-time changes, like alerts.

Test for Accessibility as You Go

Testing for accessibility throughout development lets you catch issues early before they become a headache to fix. Here’s how to implement regular accessibility checks:

Automated Accessibility Tools

Automated testing tools like Lighthouse and WAVE can detect many common accessibility issues, such as missing alt text or incorrect heading levels. However, keep in mind that while these tools are valuable, they’re not a complete solution.

Manual Testing and Keyboard Navigation

Not all accessibility features can be evaluated by automated tools, so manual testing is essential. Many users with disabilities rely on keyboards instead of a mouse, so test your site using keyboard navigation alone. Make sure users can access all interactive elements (like links, forms, and buttons) and follow a logical tab order.

Screen Reader Testing

Use screen readers like NVDA (for Windows) or VoiceOver (for Mac) to simulate how users with visual impairments experience your site. This will help you catch any missing descriptions, confusing elements, or awkward navigation.

Get Feedback from Users with Disabilities

Involving people with disabilities in testing phases offers invaluable insights. Real users bring unique perspectives that automated tools or simulated testing just can’t replicate.

Plan for Inclusive Testing

Recruit a diverse group of testers who use different assistive technologies, including screen readers, magnification software, and voice control. Their feedback can reveal practical challenges and usability issues you might not anticipate.

Iterate Based on Feedback

Make adjustments based on real-world experience and retest if needed. Accessibility is an ongoing process, and user feedback will help you understand where improvements are necessary.

Regularly Check Your Site

Keeping your site accessible isn’t a one-and-done task—it’s an ongoing process. Regular audits help ensure that your site or app stays up to date with accessibility standards as you make changes or add new features. These check-ups can catch any issues that might have been overlooked during development, or that pop up over time. But audits alone don’t cover everything; that’s where regular monitoring comes in.

Services like a11y.Radar makes a big difference by providing continuous monitoring to help keep your website accessible. With automated checks and detailed reports, a11y.Radar alerts you to potential issues early on so you can fix them before they turn into bigger problems. Plus, it helps you stay aligned with current WCAG guidelines, which are always evolving.

Combining regular audits with a monitoring service like a11y.Radar keeps your site running smoothly and ensures a user-friendly experience for everyone.

Building a Culture of Accessibility

Making accessibility a foundational part of your development culture is key to sustaining these practices long term. Here are some ideas to foster an accessibility-first mindset in your team:

Educate and Train Your Team

Provide training on accessibility guidelines and tools for all team members, from designers and developers to project managers and content creators. Workshops, webinars, and resources on WCAG standards and inclusive design can help create a shared understanding of accessibility’s importance.

Keep Accessibility Resources Available

Ensure your team has access to accessibility checklists, WCAG guidelines, and tool recommendations. Having these resources easily accessible means team members can refer to them at any stage of development.

Regularly Review and Share Accessibility Wins

Celebrate small successes, such as completing accessibility testing on a new feature or receiving positive feedback from an accessibility audit. Recognizing and sharing progress reinforces the importance of this work and motivates your team to continue prioritizing accessibility.

Helpful Tools for Accessibility

There are a variety of helpful tools for accessibility checks and improvements. Here are a few top options:
- WebAIM’s Color Contrast Checker: Verifies that contrast meets WCAG standards for readability.
- Lighthouse and WAVE: An open-source accessibility tool that runs quick checks on your web pages for WCAG compliance.
- Screen Readers: Test with NVDA (Windows), VoiceOver (Mac), and TalkBack (Android) to experience your site from the perspective of visually impaired users.
- ARIA Authoring Practices Guide: This guide provides information on implementing ARIA roles and attributes to enhance assistive technology compatibility.
Ready to Make Accessibility Part of Your Game Plan?

So, there you have it—starting accessibility early isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a win-win for everyone involved. By weaving accessibility into your project from day one, you’re not only sidestepping costly revisions but also crafting a better experience for all your users. Plus, you’re keeping things legally sound, which is always a good move.

But we get it—navigating the world of WCAG guidelines and accessibility best practices can feel a bit like decoding a secret language. If you’re ready to start accessibility early in your web development process without complicating your project, let’s talk. Schedule an ADA briefing with us at 216digital, and we’ll guide you through your journey in plain English (no tech jargon). Let’s work together to make the digital world a more inclusive place—one accessible website at a time.
Greg McNeil

October 28, 2024

Legal Compliance, The Benefits of Web Accessibility

Accessibility, Accessibility testing, ADA Compliance, UX, web development
User Testing: A Crucial Step Towards Web Accessibility
When you think about your website, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s the design, the layout, or the content. But how often do you think about how accessible your website is to everyone, including people with disabilities? Web accessibility is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have. This is where user testing comes into play. Let’s dive into what website user testing is, how it benefits web accessibility, and why it should be an essential part of your web development process.

What is Website User Testing?

Website user testing is like putting your website under a microscope to see how well it performs for real users. It involves having actual people—who could be potential users of your site—interact with your website to see how easy it is to navigate, how intuitive the design is, and how well it meets their needs. But it’s not just about looking good or being easy to use; it’s also about making sure everyone can access and use your site, no matter their abilities.

Think of it this way: You wouldn’t launch a product without testing it first, right? The same goes for your website. User testing helps you catch any issues or barriers that might prevent users from having a smooth and enjoyable experience on your site. It’s vital for web accessibility because it ensures that your website is usable for people with disabilities, which is crucial for web compliance.

How is User Testing Beneficial for Web Accessibility?

Now that we know what user testing is let’s talk about how it benefits web accessibility. Web accessibility is all about making sure that people with disabilities can use your website just as easily as anyone else. This includes people who are blind or have low vision, those who are deaf or hard of hearing, people with mobility impairments, and others.

Identifying Accessibility Barriers

One of the biggest benefits of user testing for web accessibility is that it helps you identify barriers that might prevent people with disabilities from using your site. For example, during testing, you might discover that your website’s navigation is difficult to use with a screen reader, or that your color scheme doesn’t provide enough contrast for people with low vision. These are things that might not be obvious if you’re not using assistive technologies yourself, but they can make a huge difference for someone who is.

Improving User Experience for All

Another benefit of user testing for web accessibility is that it can actually improve the user experience for everyone, not just people with disabilities. For example, adding alt text to images is crucial for people who use screen readers, but it’s also helpful for users who have slow internet connections and can’t load images. Similarly, making sure your site is keyboard navigable isn’t just important for people with mobility impairments—it can also make your site easier to use for anyone who prefers keyboard shortcuts.

Ensuring Legal Compliance

In the United States, web accessibility isn’t just a best practice—it’s also a legal requirement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Failing to make your website accessible can lead to legal challenges and fines. By incorporating user testing into your web development process, you can ensure that your site meets the necessary accessibility standards and is compliant with the law.

Accommodating a Range of Assistive Technologies

When we talk about web accessibility, it’s important to remember that people with disabilities use a variety of assistive technologies to navigate the web. These technologies include screen readers, voice recognition software, alternative input devices, and more. To ensure your website is accessible to everyone, you need to make sure it works well with these tools.

Screen Readers

Screen readers are software programs that read the text on a screen out loud, allowing people who are blind or have low vision to access content. During user testing, it’s important to check that your website is compatible with popular screen readers like JAWS or NVDA. This includes making sure that all images have descriptive alt text, that form fields are properly labeled, and that the site is navigable using keyboard commands.

Voice Recognition Software

Voice recognition software allows people to control their computer and enter text using their voice. This can be especially helpful for people with mobility impairments. To accommodate these users, your website should have clear and simple navigation that can be easily controlled by voice commands. During testing, make sure to check that your site’s forms and menus can be accessed using voice commands.

Alternative Input Devices

Some people use alternative input devices, such as switch systems or eye-tracking technology, to navigate the web. These devices allow users to control their computers in non-traditional ways, such as by pressing a switch or moving their eyes. To make your site accessible to these users, it’s important to ensure that all interactive elements, such as buttons and links, are easy to access and operate.

Accommodating these and other assistive technologies is a crucial part of web accessibility, and user testing is the best way to make sure your site is up to the task.

What is the User Testing Process?

So, how do you actually go about user testing your website for accessibility? Here’s a simple, step-by-step process that you can follow:

Planning

Start by defining your goals for the user testing process. What do you want to learn? Are you testing a new feature, or are you trying to identify accessibility barriers? Decide which users you want to include in the testing process. It’s important to include people with a variety of disabilities, as well as people who use different assistive technologies.

Recruiting Testers

Once you’ve defined your goals, it’s time to recruit testers. Look for people who represent your target audience, including people with disabilities. You can reach out to organizations that work with people with disabilities, or you can use online platforms that connect you with testers.

Conducting the Tests

During the testing process, have your testers complete specific tasks on your website. For example, you might ask them to navigate to a particular page, fill out a form, or find specific information. Make sure to observe how they interact with your site and ask for feedback on their experience. It’s also important to test your site with a variety of devices and browsers, as accessibility issues can vary depending on the platform.

Analyzing the Results

After the tests are complete, analyze the results to identify any accessibility barriers or usability issues. Look for patterns in the feedback and prioritize the issues that are most critical to address.

Making Improvements

Based on the results of the testing, make the necessary improvements to your website. This might include adding alt text to images, adjusting the color contrast, or making your forms more accessible. Once you’ve made these changes, it’s a good idea to conduct another round of testing to make sure the issues have been resolved.

Ongoing Testing

Web accessibility is not a one-time effort—it’s an ongoing process. As you add new features or content to your site, continue to conduct user testing to ensure that your site remains accessible to everyone.

Best Practices for Web Accessibility Testing

To get the most out of your user testing efforts, here are some best practices to keep in mind:
1. Include Diverse Testers: The more diverse your group of testers, the more comprehensive your accessibility testing will be. This includes people with a variety of disabilities and those who use different assistive technologies.
2. Test Early and Often: Don’t wait until your website is finished to start testing. Incorporate user testing throughout the development process to catch accessibility issues early.
3. Use Realistic Scenarios: When conducting user tests, create realistic scenarios that your users might encounter on your site. This will give you a better sense of how your site performs in real-world situations.
4. Document Everything: Keep detailed notes on the testing process, including the issues that were identified and the changes that were made. This will help you track your progress and ensure that accessibility remains a priority.
5. Stay Up-to-Date: Web accessibility standards and technologies are constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest developments and update your testing process accordingly.
Conclusion

User testing is a critical part of creating a website that is accessible to everyone. By incorporating accessibility testing into your web development process, you can ensure that your site meets the needs of all users, including those with disabilities. Not only does this improve the user experience, but it also helps you stay compliant with legal requirements and build a more inclusive online presence.

Remember, web accessibility is an ongoing journey, not a one-time task. Make it a priority to continuously apply best practices and conduct regular user testing. For personalized guidance on achieving web accessibility compliance, schedule a complimentary ADA strategy briefing with 216digital today. Let’s ensure your website is welcoming and usable for everyone.
Greg McNeil

August 19, 2024

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility testing, digital accessibility, user testing, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
Choosing the Right Accessibility Audit for Your Goals
Ensuring your website is accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities, is a legal obligation and a crucial aspect of good business practice. Digital accessibility is about creating an inclusive web experience, allowing everyone to navigate, interact, and engage with your online content without barriers. A vital component of this effort is accessibility testing, which identifies and helps rectify issues that could prevent users with disabilities from accessing your site. But with so many accessibility audits available, how do you choose the right one for your goals?

This post will explore different accessibility testing methods, their benefits, and how you can select the best approach to meet your needs.

What is Accessibility Testing?

Accessibility testing evaluates a website or digital product to ensure people of all abilities can use it. This includes users with visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, or neurological disabilities. The goal is to identify any barriers that might prevent these users from fully interacting with your site, whether that’s difficulty reading text, navigating menus, or accessing multimedia content.

Accessibility testing typically involves checking against established guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which provide a comprehensive framework for creating accessible web content. Testing can be done using various methods, from automated tools to manual assessments by accessibility experts.

Why Your Website Needs Accessibility Testing

Web accessibility is not just a matter of ethics—it’s a legal requirement in many regions, including the United States, where the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that websites be accessible to people with disabilities. Failing to meet these requirements can result in costly lawsuits, damage to your brand’s reputation, and loss of potential customers.

Beyond legal compliance, accessibility testing is essential for ensuring a positive user experience for all visitors. An accessible website can increase your audience reach, improve customer satisfaction, and boost your SEO efforts, as search engines like Google favor easy-to-navigate and understand sites.

Overview of Different Accessibility Testing Methods

Several methods of accessibility testing exist, each with strengths and limitations. Understanding these methods will help you choose the right approach for your goals.

Automated Testing

Automated accessibility testing uses software tools to scan your website for accessibility issues. These tools can quickly identify common problems, such as missing alt text, improper heading structures, or color contrast issues.

Pros: Automated testing is fast, cost-effective, and can cover large portions of your site in a short amount of time. It’s an excellent first step in identifying apparent issues.

Cons: While automated tools can catch many issues, they only cover 30-40% of accessibility guidelines. They can miss more subtle or complex problems that require human judgment.

Manual Testing

Manual testing involves human testers evaluating your website’s accessibility by simulating users’ experience with disabilities. This might include using screen readers, navigating with a keyboard, or testing for cognitive load.

Pros: Manual testing is thorough and can identify issues that automated tools miss, such as keyboard navigation problems, improper use of ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications), or issues with interactive elements like forms and buttons.

Cons: Manual testing is time-consuming and more expensive than automated testing. Expertise and experience are required to assess a site’s accessibility accurately.

Hybrid Testing

Hybrid testing combines automated and manual approaches to determine your site’s accessibility comprehensively. Automated tools are used to quickly identify issues, while manual testing addresses more complex problems.

Pros: Hybrid testing offers the best of both worlds—speed and thoroughness. It ensures that no stone is left unturned in your accessibility audit.

Cons: While more comprehensive, hybrid testing can be more costly and time-consuming than automated tools alone.

Choosing the Right Accessibility Audit for Your Goals

When selecting an accessibility audit, consider your specific goals, resources, and the complexity of your website. Here are a few scenarios to help guide your decision:
- Initial Compliance Check: If you’re new to accessibility and looking for a quick overview of your site’s compliance with basic guidelines, an automated audit might be a good starting point. This can help you identify low-hanging fruit that can be quickly addressed.
- Comprehensive Accessibility Review: For businesses that need a thorough assessment of their website’s accessibility, a hybrid audit combining both automated and manual testing is ideal. This approach will provide a complete picture of your site’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance: If your goal is to maintain accessibility over time and avoid compliance issues, consider an ongoing monitoring service that regularly checks your site for new issues as content and technology change.
Overview of 216digital’s Accessibility Services

At 216digital, we understand that navigating the complexities of digital accessibility can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a structured approach to accessibility audits through our Phase 1 Risk Mitigation and Phase 2 Real World Accessibility services.

Phase 1: Risk Mitigation Service

This initial phase focuses on identifying and addressing high-risk accessibility issues that could expose your business to legal action. Using automated tools and expert manual review, we prioritize the most critical issues that need immediate attention.

Phase 2: Real-World Accessibility Service

In Phase 2, we dive deeper into the user experience, focusing on real-world scenarios and how users interact with your site. This phase includes extensive manual testing to uncover complex issues and provides actionable recommendations for improving your site’s accessibility.

How Combining Automated and Manual Testing Enhances Accessibility

A combined approach to accessibility testing offers a more robust and reliable audit process. Automated tools quickly handle large-scale issues, but manual testing ensures your site meets the nuanced needs of all users. By integrating both methods, you can create a more accessible and user-friendly website, reducing the risk of missed issues and ensuring a more inclusive experience.

216digital’s a11y.Radar Service for Ongoing Monitoring

Maintaining accessibility is an ongoing process. 216digital’s a11y. Radar service continuously monitors your website, automatically scanning for new accessibility issues as they arise. This service helps ensure that your site complies with accessibility guidelines over time, catching potential problems before they become costly liabilities.

a11y.Radars Key Features include:
- Dynamic Dashboard Display
- Compliance Scans
- Detailed Issues Reports
- Issues Over Time
- Manual Testing Reports
- Email Alerts
- Current Web Compliance Status
How a11y.Radar Helps Prevent Frivolous ADA Lawsuits and Maintains Accessibility Compliance

One of the biggest concerns for businesses today is the threat of frivolous ADA lawsuits. These lawsuits can be costly and time-consuming, even if the claims are unfounded. 216digital’s a11y. Radar service acts as a safeguard, continuously monitoring your site for compliance and helping you address issues before they lead to legal action. By keeping your site up-to-date with accessibility standards, a11y.Radar protects you from lawsuits and ensures a better user experience for all visitors.

Conclusion

Choosing the proper accessibility audit is crucial for ensuring your website meets the needs of all users while staying compliant with legal requirements. Whether you’re just starting with accessibility or looking for a comprehensive review, understanding the different testing methods and services available will help you make an informed decision.

At 216digital, we can help develop a strategy to integrate WCAG 2.1 compliance into your development roadmap on your terms. To learn more about how our experts can help you confidently create and maintain an accessible website that meets both your business goals and the needs of your users, schedule a complementary ADA Strategy Briefing today.
Greg McNeil

August 8, 2024

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility Audit, Accessibility testing, digital accessibility, Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Solution, Website Accessibility Tools

Using NVDA to Test Web Accessibility

Why Testing with a Screen Reader Matters

Common Accessibility Barriers

Getting Started with NVDA

Understanding the Basics of NVDA

Key Shortcuts to Know

Testing for Accessibility Barriers with NVDA

Check Your Navigation Structure

Confirm Image Descriptions

Test Interactive Elements Like Forms

Common Accessibility Barriers to Watch For

Documenting What You Find

Trying Out Other Screen Readers

Making Accessibility Part of Your Process

Wrapping Up

Is Your Website ADA-Compliant?

Why ADA Compliance Matters

Legal Implications

Expanding Your Audience

Understanding Web Accessibility Standards

Key Principles of WCAG

Common Barriers to Web Accessibility

Images Without Alt Text

Poor Color Contrast

Inaccessible Forms

Lack of Keyboard Navigation

Testing Your Website for Accessibility

Manual Checks

Automated Tools

User Testing with Assistive Technologies

Practical Steps to Improve Accessibility

Conclusion

A Case for Starting Accessibility Early in Development

Why Start Accessibility Planning from the Beginning?

Avoid Costly Retrofits

Enhance User Experience for All

Stay Compliant and Avoid Legal Issues

How to Integrate Accessibility into Each Stage of Development

Design with Accessibility in Mind

Color Contrast and Readability

Intuitive Layout and Navigation

Descriptive Text for Buttons and Links

Use the Right HTML Tags

Proper HTML Markup

Descriptive Alt Text for Images

ARIA Attributes

Test for Accessibility as You Go

Automated Accessibility Tools

Manual Testing and Keyboard Navigation

Screen Reader Testing

Get Feedback from Users with Disabilities

Plan for Inclusive Testing

Iterate Based on Feedback

Regularly Check Your Site

Building a Culture of Accessibility

Educate and Train Your Team

Keep Accessibility Resources Available

Regularly Review and Share Accessibility Wins

Helpful Tools for Accessibility

Ready to Make Accessibility Part of Your Game Plan?

User Testing: A Crucial Step Towards Web Accessibility

What is Website User Testing?

How is User Testing Beneficial for Web Accessibility?

Identifying Accessibility Barriers

Improving User Experience for All

Ensuring Legal Compliance

Accommodating a Range of Assistive Technologies

Screen Readers

Voice Recognition Software

Alternative Input Devices

What is the User Testing Process?

Planning

Recruiting Testers

Conducting the Tests

Analyzing the Results

Making Improvements

Ongoing Testing

Best Practices for Web Accessibility Testing

Conclusion

Choosing the Right Accessibility Audit for Your Goals