Accessibility Testing ensures that software applications are usable by individuals with disabilities, including those with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments. The goal is to ensure compliance with accessibility standards such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), Section 508, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
This testing is essential for web applications, mobile apps, ERP systems, and public-facing digital platforms to provide an inclusive user experience.
Why is Accessibility Testing Important?
- Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties by adhering to accessibility laws and guidelines.
- Inclusive User Experience: Ensures equal access to all users, regardless of disabilities.
- Improved Usability: Enhances overall user satisfaction by making interfaces clearer and more intuitive.
- Wider Audience Reach: Expands potential user base, including people with disabilities.
Key Areas of Accessibility Testing
1. Visual Accessibility
- Ensuring screen readers can interpret content correctly (e.g., NVDA, JAWS).
- Providing alt text for images and graphical elements.
- Maintaining high contrast between text and background for readability.
- Supporting text resizing without breaking layout.
2. Auditory Accessibility
- Adding closed captions and transcripts for multimedia content.
- Ensuring text-based alternatives for audio-based information.
- Verifying compatibility with assistive hearing devices.
3. Motor (Physical) Accessibility
- Enabling keyboard-only navigation (no reliance on mouse input).
- Ensuring proper focus indicators for interactive elements.
- Avoiding time-sensitive interactions that require rapid responses.
4. Cognitive Accessibility
- Using simple, clear language to enhance comprehension.
- Avoiding flashing content that may trigger seizures.
- Ensuring predictable navigation and workflows.
Accessibility Testing Techniques
1. Automated Testing Tools
- WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool) – Identifies WCAG compliance issues.
- axe DevTools – Integrates with browsers to detect accessibility barriers.
- Google Lighthouse – Provides accessibility audit scores.
- Accessibility Scanner (Android) – Detects mobile app accessibility issues.
2. Manual Testing
- Navigating the application using only a keyboard (Tab, Enter, Arrow keys).
- Testing with screen readers like NVDA, JAWS, or VoiceOver.
- Checking contrast ratios using tools like Contrast Checker.
- Ensuring forms have descriptive labels and accessible error messages.
3. User Testing with Assistive Technologies
- Engaging real users with disabilities to test real-world usability.
- Observing challenges in navigation, content comprehension, and interaction.
Example: Accessibility Testing in NetSuite
Scenario: Ensuring an e-commerce platform meets accessibility standards.
Expected Behavior:
- All product images should have descriptive alt text.
- Forms should have clear labels and support keyboard navigation.
- Color contrast should meet WCAG AA standards.
- Screen reader users should be able to complete a checkout process smoothly.
Findings:
- Missing alt text on promotional images.
- Low contrast on call-to-action buttons, making text hard to read.
- Forms missing ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes.
Improvements:
- Added alt text to all non-decorative images.
- Enhanced contrast ratios for better readability.
- Implemented ARIA roles and attributes to improve screen reader support.
Best Practices for Accessibility Testing
- Follow WCAG Guidelines: Ensure compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA at a minimum.
- Test with Real Users: Conduct usability tests with people who rely on assistive technologies.
- Provide Alternative Text: Add meaningful alt text for all non-text elements.
- Ensure Keyboard Accessibility: Test navigation without a mouse.
- Use Semantic HTML: Use proper HTML tags for headings, lists, and buttons.
- Avoid Auto-Playing Media: Allow users to control playback of audio and video.