Real Life Accessibility: Software versus Disability-Based UX Testing

Accessibility testing software has been the traditional approach to measuring accessibility for websites and software. While it can be extremely helpful in determining some aspects of digital accessibility, many accessibility software manufacturers admit that their products often miss the mark in determining what is accessible to real users who live with disabilities. Applying a combination of accessibility testing software and using the skills of testers who live with disabilities can yield results that are much more representative of, and useful to, end users who live with disabilities. We’ll discuss:

• Current accessibility requirements (WCAG/508) that cannot be measured with accessibility testing software.
• A list of common "false positives" and "false negatives" to watch for when using accessibility software.
• Why UX testers who live with disabilities are better able to vet real life accessibility versus non-disabled testers seeking to simulate the experience of living with a given disability or using a given device.
• Suggestions on how to successfully use accessibility testing software and testers living with disabilities in your development process.
• The opportunity for attendees to ask questions of a panel of UX testers and Accessibility Specialists who live with disabilities about their work.

Speaker:

• Sue Ann Rodriquez, WeCo Lead Accessibility Specialist
• Lynn Wehrman, WeCo President and Director of Accessibility Services