How do you know if your web accessibility efforts are successful?

Web accessibility efforts can be deemed successful through various indicators. Firstly, monitor user feedback: positive comments from users with disabilities indicate improved usability. Secondly, track accessibility-related metrics, such as increased usage of accessibility features and decreased error rates. Conduct regular accessibility audits to identify and address issues. Furthermore, if the website adheres to recognized accessibility guidelines (WCAG), this signifies progress. Lastly, collaboration with disabled user groups and involving them in testing ensures a user-centered approach. Success is an ongoing journey of continuous improvement and inclusivity.

Accessibility on the whole has a strong presence if the product can drive the majority of the masses. When I say majority, it can cater to the expected users + defined accessibility class of users for whom the product had been kept in mind + the users who are ignored. They may be small in no# of their data may not be captured considering that that segment had not been considered. So to summarize I would define my Goal in 3 parts broadly. 1. The intended users - users who don't have any special needs (No ) 2. The accessible users- users who are the actual target need to be given adequate attention. (70%) 3. The users who have accessible needs and have not been considered. (30%)

User testing is very important at the same time expensive and time-consuming. There are various factors that need to be considered for the user testing. 1. The size of the product and the market size: The idea for this; is if the product is new to the market and does not have an established market size then investing in a user testing strategy would vary. We can do in-house testing or learn from the user feedback. 2. If the size of the product is well established than we can considered having in-house web accessibility team, investing in right set of tools (having accessibility labs, right documentation and process steps, dedicated accessibility standards etc), investing in user review or feedback from external source. etc.

Normally the feedback is captured by tools like: 1. Feedback of the observer in a document 2. JAWS, where the user can check the various functionalities. 3. JIRA for documenting the issues 4. WCAG to get up-to-date with the newer and latest guidelines. etc.

Absolutely, monitoring web analytics is an essential aspect of evaluating web accessibility efforts. Here's a breakdown of why and how web analytics can help you assess the impact of your accessibility improvements: Tools for Web Analytics: There are various tools available for monitoring web analytics. Some popular options include: Matomo: An open-source analytics platform that offers similar features to Google Analytics but allows for greater data ownership and privacy control. Hotjar: This tool provides heatmaps, session recordings, and user surveys to give you a more detailed understanding of user behavior and interactions.

User Testing: Organize user testing sessions with individuals with disabilities. Observe their interactions and ask for their feedback in real-time. Accessibility Statements: Include a section on your website where users can provide feedback on accessibility issues they encounter. Social Media: Monitor social media platforms for mentions, comments, or messages related to accessibility concerns. Respond promptly and address these issues publicly to show your commitment to improvement. Accessibility Help Desk: Set up a dedicated email address or contact form for users to report accessibility problems. Ensure prompt responses and follow-ups.

Outline Outline Outline! Creating a whiteboard with various charts outlining goals objectives and results. As you enter the process, these will change and adapt, but in the end a whiteboard of such will really help you see the big picture and end result.