Digital accessibility in modern era is more than a best web practice – it’s a legal and ethical necessity. Organizations that develop or procure technology ought to ensure compliance with recommended accessibility standards, and one of the important factors of digital accessibility is the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT).
Organizations need to furnish VPAT for the digital assets to display their accessibility level. WCAG asks organizations to publish accurate VPATs to complete the accessibility process.
A well-prepared VPAT not only demonstrates compliance but also signals a commitment to inclusivity. This article contains crucial information on VPAT filling.
Necessary pointers for completing a VPAT effectively and accurately!
- Brainstorm on the purpose of the VPAT!
A VPAT is a standardized document, which is used by organizations to assess how a digital product or service aligns with established accessibility guidelines, such as:
- Section 508 (U.S.) – Federal accessibility standards
- WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) – Global web accessibility standards
- EN 301 549 (EU standard) – European accessibility requirements
Find more information on different types of VPAT reports according to standards.
- Gather the necessary information to fill out the VPAT!
Before filling out a VPAT, collect all relevant documents and information, including:
- Detailed product specifications
- Accessibility testing reports
- Input from developers and designers
- Feedback from users with disabilities
- Stay transparent, stay authentic!
Completing a VPAT isn’t about showing a perfect scenario to users – it’s about demonstrating an awareness of accessibility, how committed an organization is, and transparently displaying all the strengths and weaknesses of digital assets.
Please note, be specific when describing compliance levels, such as:
- Supports – Fully meets the accessibility criteria
- Partially supports – Meets some, but not all requirements
- Does not support – Fails to meet the criteria
- Not applicable (NA) – The accessibility criteria do not apply to the product
- Not evaluated (NE) – If some features or aspects haven’t been assessed.
- Provide a detailed explanation about the accessibility level!
Other than compliance level (supports, partially supports, etc.), VPAT must contain product information, applied accessibility standards, evaluation method, report date, and contact information. Also, explain:
- Why the issue exists
- Whether a workaround is available
- Any planned improvements to address the gap
- Use clear and concise language to fill the VPAT!
A VPAT is often reviewed by procurement teams, legal advisors, and accessibility professionals, so clarity is essential. Avoid technical jargon that may confuse non-technical stakeholders. Instead, use simple language to describe accessibility features and limitations.
- Ensure internal review and testing!
Before submitting a VPAT, conduct thorough testing to verify compliance by following three crucial methods:
Automated accessibility testing tools to detect common issues.
Manual accessibility testing with assistive technologies (such as screen readers, and keyboard navigation).
User testing by individuals with disabilities to gain real-world insights.
- Keep the VPAT updated!
A VPAT is not a one-and-done document. As a product evolves, so should its VPAT. Regularly update it to reflect improvements, new accessibility features, or changes in standards. Also, after every update, make sure to review its accessibility; VPAT itself ought to be in an accessible format for everyone.
- Seek expert guidance!
If an organization lacks in-house accessibility expertise, consider consulting with an accessibility professional. Their insights can help ensure that the VPAT is accurate, comprehensive, and meets compliance requirements.
In a nutshell,
Following practical Tips for VPAT Report preparation can make the accessibility conformance process more accurate, transparent, and useful for organizations and their customers. A well-prepared VPAT should be based on evidence from appropriate accessibility testing rather than assumptions, with clear information about conformance, known limitations, and areas that may require remediation.
Organizations should review the applicable accessibility criteria, document findings consistently, and keep the report aligned with the product’s actual capabilities. Updating the VPAT when the product, accessibility features, or applicable requirements change can also help maintain reliable conformance information.
Skynet Technologies provides VPAT/ACR services backed by accessibility audits, manual and automated testing, assistive technology evaluation, remediation guidance, and detailed conformance reporting. Request a Free VPAT Accessibility Quote to discuss your product or digital asset and reporting requirements.
