Selecting The Right Accessibility Tool: A Comprehensive Guide
July 30, 2024
Web accessibility ensures websites and web applications are usable by everyone, including individuals with disabilities. This is not only a legal requirement, but also good business practice. To achieve accessibility goals, organizations need the right testing tools. Here are some of the best options with some ideas on how to choose the right fit for your organization’s needs:
What Are Web Accessibility Testing Tools?
Web accessibility testing tools help evaluate and improve the accessibility of websites and web applications. They test for compliance with accessibility standards detailed in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2 (WCAG), identifying elements that may complicate access for users with disabilities. These tools check WCAG Compliance for things like, color contrast, keyboard navigability, and screen reader compatibility, ensuring your content is accessible to a diverse range of users.
The WCAG 2.2 guidelines published in October 2023, are categorized into three levels of conformance in order to meet the needs of different groups and different situations: A (lowest), AA (mid-range), and AAA (highest). Hitting AA conformance is widely considered legally acceptable with A being the least compliant and AAA offering the most optimal accessibility level.
Check these options for your organization’s needs.
1. BrowserStack
Features:
• Comprehensive web accessibility compliance.
• Establish a baseline and set up monitoring.
• 5x faster scans and screen readers for workflow analysis.
• SDK for effortless automation.
Advantages:
• Robust testing capabilities across browsers and devices.
• Detailed remediation guidance.
• Smart reporting and central dashboard.
Disadvantages:
• Pricing can be higher for extensive usage.
Recommended for: Teams needing comprehensive testing and robust automation.
Pricing: Flexible based on website size and support level.
2. Monsido
Features:
• Easy-to-use web accessibility scanning.
• Section 508 (Government Mandate) and WCAG issue identification.
• Educational resources.
Advantages:
• Affordable and modern approach.
• Focus on understanding and prevention.
Disadvantages:
• Limited free trial for web accessibility evaluation.
Recommended for: Organizations seeking user-friendly accessibility solutions.
Pricing: Customized based on individual needs.
3. Deque (Axe Auditor)
Features:
• Automated testing adhering to WCAG standards.
• Detailed remediation help.
• Intelligent guided tests.
Advantages:
• Prioritization of issues.
• Measurable progress tracking.
• Complete overview of web assets.
Disadvantages:
• Pricing varies based on requirements.
Recommended for: Large websites aiming for compliance.
Pricing: Customized based on needs.
4. Site Improve
Features:
• Web accessibility, content, and user experience testing.
• Prioritization of issues.
• Comprehensive overview.
Advantages:
• Easy-to-understand reports.
• DCI score for progress measurement.
Disadvantages:
• Pricing details not directly available.
Recommended for: Organizations aiming for inclusive content.
Pricing: Customized based on individual needs.
5. Silktide
Features:
• Comprehensive website testing (accessibility, content, user experience).
• Prioritization of issues.
• Detailed remediation guidance.
Advantages:
• Easy-to-use platform.
• Scalable pricing.
Disadvantages:
• Pricing varies based on requirements.
Recommended for: Making websites better and protecting brand reputation.
Pricing: Customized based on needs.
Selecting the right accessibility tool involves assessing your organization’s unique context:
1. Identify where you stand: Analyze available resources and goals.
2. Consider Compliance: Ensure the tool aligns with relevant accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) and legal requirements.
3. Pinpoint key stakeholders: Determine who needs to be involved in the decision-making process.
4. Test and Compare: Try multiple tools to compare effectiveness, ease of use, and integration capabilities with your existing systems.
5. Analyze potential solutions: Gather feedback and review options.
6. Training and Support: Look for tools that provide robust training materials and customer support to assist your team in implementation.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Consider your specific needs, budget, and desired level of conformance. Whether it’s robust testing, user-friendliness, or affordability, choose the tool that aligns best with your company’s goal in creating an inclusive digital experience. By following these steps, you can find an accessibility tool that meets your organization’s needs and enhances the user experience for individuals with disabilities.
Ready to discuss accessibility? Contact us, and let’s see how we can help.