Engineering
Best Practice: Perform accessibility audits regularly
Sep 12, 2024
Maintaining accessibility and inclusivity within your product is not merely a regulatory obligation; it’s a strategic advantage that sets your business apart. Regular accessibility audits are non-negotiable for maintaining a product that serves everyone and embodies your commitment to inclusivity and excellence.
Why Regular Accessibility Audits Are Essential
- Ongoing compliance: Accessibility standards are ever-evolving, and each new feature or update could introduce unforeseen issues. Regular audits ensure your product is always in line with accessibility requirements, safeguarding your brand from potential legal and reputational pitfalls.
- Early issue detection: Frequent audits allow you to spot and address accessibility issues before they impact users. This proactive stance minimises disruptions and averts the costly consequences of late-stage fixes.
- Enhanced user experience: An accessible product translates to a user-friendly experience. Regular audits guarantee that all users, including those with disabilities, can navigate your product seamlessly, driving satisfaction and loyalty.
- Ethical responsibility: Upholding accessibility demonstrates your ethical commitment and elevates your brand’s reputation as a socially responsible organisation. This dedication resonates with customers and stakeholders alike, forging stronger connections.
Best Practices for Effective Accessibility Audits
1. Leverage automated tools: Start with robust automated tools like Axe, Lighthouse, or WAVE to conduct initial checks. These tools efficiently identify common issues such as colour contrast, missing alt text, and structural problems.
2. Incorporate manual testing: Augment automated checks with thorough manual audits to address nuanced accessibility challenges. Manual testing is vital for assessing interactions like keyboard navigation and screen reader functionality.
3. Engage users with disabilities: Involve real users with disabilities in your testing process. Their feedback offers invaluable insights into how well your product meets diverse needs and highlights areas for improvement.
4. Review new features and updates: Ensure that any new additions or changes undergo rigorous accessibility testing before release. This practice prevents the introduction of new issues and upholds your high inclusivity standards.
5. Document and act on findings: Maintain detailed records of audit results and action steps taken to resolve identified issues. This transparency tracks progress and reinforces accountability.
6. Establish a regular schedule: Implement a consistent audit schedule, such as quarterly or post-major updates. Regular reviews keep your product accessible and aligned with evolving standards.
7. Educate your team: Equip your design and development teams with knowledge on accessibility best practices. Ongoing education ensures accessibility is woven into every stage of your development process.
8. Update your practices: Stay informed about updates to accessibility standards, like changes to WCAG. Regularly refresh your practices to align with the latest guidelines and uphold the highest accessibility standards.
Conclusion
Regular accessibility audits are vital for fostering an inclusive, user-centred product that meets the needs of all users. By leveraging automated tools, conducting thorough manual reviews, and engaging users with disabilities, you can proactively address accessibility challenges and ensure compliance. This commitment not only enhances user experience but also strengthens your brand’s reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking organisation, setting the stage for long-term business success.
