Accessibility Testing
Accessibility testing is crucial to ensure that digital content and applications are usable by everyone, including individuals with disabilities. A combination of automated tools, manual testing methods, and specific considerations for mobile devices helps create a truly inclusive digital experience.
Automated Tools for Testing
Automated tools are a valuable first step in identifying potential accessibility issues. They scan websites and applications, flagging potential barriers and providing guidance on how to fix them.
SiteImprove
SiteImprove is the UTSW-Licensed tool for checking accessibility, but it will only scan public facing websites. It offers a comprehensive suite of accessibility testing features, including automated checks, manual testing tools, and reporting capabilities. It helps identify issues related to WCAG compliance, keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, and more. For internal sites follow the free and manual processes below.
Free Automated Tools
These tools can be used for both public and internal websites.
- WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool: A browser extension that provides visual feedback on potential accessibility issues directly on web pages.
- Axe DevTools: Another browser extension that integrates accessibility testing into your developer workflow, allowing you to identify and fix issues early in the development process.
- Accessibility Insights for Web: A powerful tool from Microsoft that offers automated checks, detailed reports, and step-by-step guidance for addressing accessibility issues.
- Lighthouse: An open-source tool built into Chrome DevTools that audits web pages for performance, accessibility, and best practices.
- Color Contrast Analysis: Manually check color contrast ratios using tools like the WebAIM Color Contrast Checker or the WCAG Contrast Checker to ensure sufficient contrast for readability.
Manual Testing Methods
While automated tools are helpful, they cannot catch every accessibility issue. Manual testing methods involve human evaluation and provide a deeper understanding of the user experience.
- Keyboard Navigation: Test if all interactive elements can be accessed and operated using only a keyboard.
- Screen Reader Testing: Use screen readers like NVDA or JAWS to experience how users with visual impairments interact with your content.
- Zoom and Magnification: Test how your content scales and functions when magnified, simulating the experience of users with low vision.
- Color Contrast Analysis: Manually check color contrast ratios using tools like the WebAIM Color Contrast Checker to ensure sufficient contrast for readability.
- Cognitive and Learning Disabilities: Consider how users with cognitive or learning disabilities might interact with your content. Evaluate for clarity, simplicity, and ease of navigation.
- User Testing: Involve individuals with disabilities in your testing process to gather real-world feedback and insights.
Mobile Testing
Mobile accessibility testing is essential as more users access digital content on smartphones and tablets.
- Mobile Screen Readers: Test your content with mobile screen readers like VoiceOver (iOS) and TalkBack (Android).
- Touchscreen Gestures: Ensure that touch gestures are intuitive and support alternative input methods, such as switch control.
- Responsive Design: Verify that your content adapts responsively to different screen sizes and orientations.
- Mobile Accessibility Testing Tools: Utilize tools like the Mobile Accessibility Checker or BrowserStack to evaluate your content across different devices and platforms.
Accessibility testing is an ongoing process that requires a combination of automated tools, manual methods, and user feedback. By incorporating accessibility testing into your development workflow and regularly evaluating your content, you can ensure a seamless experience for everyone, regardless of their abilities.
Remember: Accessibility is not just a checkbox; it's about creating a digital world that's inclusive and empowering for all users.