Accessibility Tester

An Accessibility Tester evaluates software to ensure usability for people with disabilities. They identify and report accessibility barriers, advocating for inclusive design and compliance with standards like WCAG.

Detailed explanation

Accessibility testing is a critical aspect of software development, ensuring that applications are usable by individuals with disabilities. An accessibility tester plays a pivotal role in this process, acting as an advocate for inclusive design and identifying barriers that might prevent users with disabilities from effectively interacting with a software product. This goes beyond simply checking boxes on a compliance checklist; it involves understanding the diverse needs of users with disabilities and employing a combination of automated tools, manual testing techniques, and assistive technologies to evaluate software.

The primary responsibility of an accessibility tester is to assess software against established accessibility standards and guidelines, most notably the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). WCAG provides a comprehensive set of recommendations for making web content more accessible to a wider range of users, including those with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments. An accessibility tester must have a thorough understanding of WCAG principles (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust - POUR) and success criteria to effectively evaluate software.

Practical implementation involves a multi-faceted approach. Automated accessibility testing tools, such as axe DevTools, WAVE, and Accessibility Insights, can quickly identify common accessibility issues like missing alternative text for images, insufficient color contrast, and improper heading structure. These tools perform automated checks against WCAG guidelines and generate reports highlighting potential violations. However, automated testing alone is insufficient. Many accessibility issues require manual evaluation, as they involve understanding the context and user experience.

Manual testing techniques include keyboard navigation testing, screen reader testing, and color contrast analysis. Keyboard navigation testing verifies that all interactive elements of the software can be accessed and operated using only the keyboard, which is crucial for users who cannot use a mouse. Screen reader testing involves using screen reader software, such as NVDA or VoiceOver, to navigate the software and ensure that content is properly announced and structured for screen reader users. Color contrast analysis verifies that the contrast between text and background colors meets WCAG requirements, ensuring readability for users with low vision.

Assistive technologies, such as screen readers, screen magnifiers, and speech recognition software, are essential tools for accessibility testers. By using these technologies, testers can experience the software from the perspective of users with disabilities and identify usability issues that might not be apparent through other testing methods. For example, a tester might use a screen reader to navigate a website and discover that form labels are not properly associated with their corresponding input fields, making it difficult for screen reader users to understand what information is required.

Here's an example of how an accessibility tester might evaluate a simple HTML form:

<form>
  <label for="name">Name:</label>
  <input type="text" id="name" name="name"><br><br>
  <label for="email">Email:</label>
  <input type="email" id="email" name="email"><br><br>
  <input type="submit" value="Submit">
</form>

An accessibility tester would first use an automated tool to check for basic accessibility issues. The tool might flag that the form lacks proper ARIA attributes for enhanced accessibility. Then, the tester would manually test the form using a screen reader. They would discover if the labels are correctly associated with the input fields. If the for attribute in the <label> tag does not match the id attribute of the corresponding <input> tag, the screen reader user will not be able to understand the purpose of the input field.

Best practices for accessibility testing include:

  • Integrating accessibility testing early in the development lifecycle: This allows for identifying and addressing accessibility issues before they become deeply embedded in the codebase, reducing remediation costs and effort.
  • Involving users with disabilities in the testing process: This provides valuable feedback and insights that can help to improve the accessibility of the software. User testing with people with disabilities is invaluable.
  • Providing clear and actionable feedback to developers: Accessibility testers should provide developers with detailed reports that clearly explain the accessibility issues and provide specific recommendations for remediation.
  • Staying up-to-date with the latest accessibility standards and guidelines: WCAG is constantly evolving, so it is important for accessibility testers to stay informed about the latest changes and best practices.
  • Using a combination of automated and manual testing techniques: Automated testing can quickly identify common accessibility issues, while manual testing is necessary to evaluate more complex issues and ensure a positive user experience.
  • Documenting all accessibility testing activities: This helps to track progress and ensure that all accessibility requirements are met.

Accessibility testing is not just about compliance; it's about creating inclusive software that is usable by everyone, regardless of their abilities. By following best practices and employing a combination of automated and manual testing techniques, accessibility testers can play a vital role in making the digital world more accessible.

Further reading

Related Terms

A/B Testing

Acceptance Testing

Ad Hoc Testing