How do you choose the right WCAG testing tool for your site?

1 What is WCAG testing?

WCAG testing is the process of checking your website against the WCAG criteria, which are divided into four principles: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. Each principle has several guidelines and success criteria that specify how to make your site accessible to different types of users, such as those who use screen readers, keyboards, or voice commands. WCAG testing can help you identify and fix any issues that might prevent your site from being accessible, such as low contrast, unclear navigation, or missing alt text.

2 Why is WCAG testing important?

WCAG testing is important for several reasons. First, it can help you improve your site's usability and user experience, which can lead to higher engagement, retention, and conversion rates. Second, it can help you avoid legal risks and penalties, as some countries and regions have laws that require websites to comply with WCAG or similar standards. Third, it can help you demonstrate your social responsibility and commitment to diversity and inclusion, which can enhance your reputation and brand image.

3 What are the types of WCAG testing tools?

WCAG testing tools can be classified into two main types: automated and manual. Automated tools are software applications or plugins that scan your site and generate reports on its accessibility issues. They can be fast, easy, and cost-effective, but they can also miss some errors or produce false positives. Manual tools are methods or techniques that involve human evaluation and feedback, such as user testing, expert reviews, or checklists. They can be more accurate, comprehensive, and insightful, but they can also be time-consuming, complex, and expensive.

4 How to choose the right WCAG testing tool for your site?

When selecting the right WCAG testing tool for your site, you should consider your goals, resources, and preferences. What level of WCAG compliance do you want to achieve? How much time and money can you invest in testing? How complex is your site's structure? Do you prefer a web-based or desktop tool? A graphical or command-line interface? A single or multiple tool? Depending on your answers to these questions, you can choose a combination of automated and manual tools that suits your needs and budget. For instance, you could use an automated tool to scan for common issues, and then employ a manual tool to verify and fix the results. Alternatively, you could use a manual tool to test for specific scenarios, followed by an automated tool to monitor and maintain accessibility.

5 Where to find WCAG testing tools?

There are many WCAG testing tools available online, ranging from free to paid. WAVE, AChecker, axe, and WebAIM are some of the most popular and reputable ones. WAVE offers a web-based tool to evaluate accessibility with feedback and suggestions, as well as a browser extension and an API. AChecker provides a web-based tool to check accessibility and generate reports and statistics, along with an API and a bookmarklet. Axe is a desktop tool that analyzes accessibility with guidance and best practices; it also has a browser extension, a web-based version, and an API. WebAIM offers a manual tool with a comprehensive checklist and user testing services for WCAG compliance; plus, it has a browser extension and color contrast checker. You can find more WCAG testing tools on the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) website, which also provides resources and tutorials on how to use them effectively.

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?