How can you test the accessibility of software applications for users with disabilities?

1 Why is accessibility testing important?

Accessibility testing is important for several reasons. First, it ensures that you are not excluding a significant portion of your potential users who have disabilities, such as visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments. According to the World Health Organization, about 15% of the world's population has some form of disability. Second, it improves the usability and quality of your application for all users, as accessibility features can benefit everyone, especially in different contexts and environments. For example, captions can help users who are in a noisy place or have a low bandwidth. Third, it can help you avoid legal risks and penalties, as some countries have laws and regulations that require accessibility compliance for software applications, especially in the public sector. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act in the United States, or the European Accessibility Act in the European Union.

3 How to perform accessibility testing?

Accessibility testing can be performed using a combination of manual and automated methods. Manual testing involves using the application as a user with a disability would do, using assistive technologies, such as screen readers, magnifiers, or keyboards. Manual testing can help you evaluate the user experience and identify any accessibility barriers or frustrations. However, manual testing can be time-consuming and subjective, and it may not cover all the possible scenarios and disabilities. Therefore, manual testing should be complemented by automated testing, which involves using tools and software that can scan and analyze the application for any accessibility violations or errors. Automated testing can help you check the compliance and consistency of your application with the accessibility standards and guidelines. However, automated testing can also have limitations and false positives, and it may not detect all the accessibility issues. Therefore, automated testing should be followed by manual verification and validation.

4 What are some accessibility testing tools and techniques?

Testing the accessibility of software applications for users with disabilities can be done with various tools and techniques. Screen readers, magnifiers, keyboards, and accessibility checkers are some of the most common and useful ones. For instance, screen readers read out loud the content and elements of an application, while magnifiers enlarge them. Keyboard is a device that allows users to input text and commands using keys, and accessibility checkers can scan and analyze the code and content of your application for any accessibility violations or errors. To test the accessibility of your application with these tools, you need to check how well it communicates information, structure, and functionality; how well it preserves clarity, contrast, and layout; how well it supports keyboard navigation and interaction; how well it indicates focus, state, and feedback; as well as how well it provides keyboard shortcuts and alternatives for complex or repetitive tasks.

5 How to improve the accessibility of your application?

Improving the accessibility of your application is an ongoing process that requires planning, testing, and evaluation. To ensure your application is accessible, involve users with disabilities in the design and development process, and get their feedback. It's also important to follow accessibility standards and guidelines, such as the WCAG, and use accessibility testing tools and techniques to test your application. Additionally, any accessibility issues or errors should be fixed and verified. Finally, document the accessibility features of your application and provide instructions and support for users with disabilities.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?