Section 508
Compliance Testing

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Understanding Section 508 Compliance Testing

Section 508 is an amendment to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, requiring federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology (EIT) accessible to people with disabilities. The law applies to all federal agencies when they develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information technology.

Key Areas of Focus:

S

Scope

Ensuring that information and user interface component

G

Goal

Ensure equal access to information technology for people with disabilities.

S

Standards

Provides specific technical standards for various types of technologies.

E

Enforcement

Allows individuals to file complaints if they’re unable to access federal information or services.

Our Section 508 Compliance Testing Process

At A11yTesters, we employ a rigorous, multi-step approach:

Initial Assessment:

Initial Assessment: We conduct a thorough review of your digital assets to identify areas that require Section 508 compliance.

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Automated Testing:

Automated Testing:We use advanced tools to scan for common accessibility issues related to Section 508 standards.

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Manual Expert Review:

Manual Expert Review: Our certified accessibility experts perform a detailed manual review, catching nuanced issues that automated tools might miss.

Assistive Technology Testing:

Assistive Technology Testing: We test your content using various assistive technologies to ensure compatibility and usability.

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Compliance Reporting:

Compliance Reporting: We provide a detailed report outlining compliance status, identified issues, and recommended remediation steps.

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Remediation Guidance:

Remediation Guidance: Our team offers expert advice on how to address any non-compliant elements, prioritized based on impact and complexity.

The Section 508 Refresh and WCAG Alignment

The Section 508 Refresh and WCAG Alignment

In January 2017, the U.S. Access Board published a final rule updating the Section 508 standards. This update, known as the “Section 508 Refresh,” harmonized the standards with other guidelines and standards both in the U.S. and abroad, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0.

Key Changes in the Refresh:

  1. WCAG 2.0 Incorporation: The refresh incorporates WCAG 2.0 Level A and AA Success Criteria.
  2. Broad Application: Applies to all content, including web, software, electronic documents, and multimedia.
  3. Mobile Accessibility: Addresses the accessibility of mobile applications.
  4. Functional Performance Criteria: Updated to cover features of products or technologies not addressed by technical requirements.

Benefits of Web Accessibility Testing

Legal Compliance:

Legal Compliance:

Avoid potential legal issues and ensure adherence to federal regulations.

Expanded User Base:

Expanded User Base:

Make your digital content accessible to all users, including those with disabilities..

Improved User Experience

Improved User Experience

Accessibility features often improve usability for all users, not just those with disabilities.

Cost Savings:

Cost Savings:

Identifying and addressing accessibility issues early can save significant costs in the long run.

Enhanced Reputation:

Enhanced Reputation:

Demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility.

Tools and Technologies

axe Accessibe Wave Userway NVDA Jaws
✔ Leading Solutions for Best Results ✔ Instant Automated Scans ✔ Leading AI  Solutions
Challenges and Solutions in

Challenges and Solutions in Section 508 Compliance Testing

  • Legacy Systems:

    We provide strategies for progressive enhancement and alternative accessible versions where full compliance isn’t immediately feasible.

  • Multimedia Content

    We guide the implementation of closed captions, audio descriptions, and transcripts to make multimedia content compliant.

  • PDF Accessibility

    We offer training and tools for creating accessible PDFs, including proper tagging and document structure.

  • Rapidly Changing Technology

     We provide ongoing monitoring and updates to ensure continued compliance as technology evolves.

  • Dynamic Content and JavaScript-heavy Interfaces

    We test dynamic elements like modals and tabs for screen reader and keyboard accessibility, and guide effective use of ARIA roles.

Why Choose A11yTesters for Section 508 Compliance Testing?

Expertise

Expertise

Our team consists of certified accessibility professionals with years of experience in the field.

Comprehensive

Comprehensive

We combine automated tools, manual expert review, and user testing for thorough results.

Up-to-date Knowledge

Up-to-date Knowledge

We stay current with the latest accessibility standards and emerging technologies.

Customized Solutions

Customized Solutions

We tailor our testing process to your specific needs and goals.

Get Started with Web Accessibility Testing

Don’t let accessibility barriers limit your digital reach. Contact A11yTesters today to schedule a comprehensive web accessibility audit and take the first step towards creating a more inclusive digital experience for all your users.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Section 508 is a federal law requiring electronic and information technology used by U.S. government agencies to be accessible to people with disabilities. Any agency receiving federal funding or working with federal contracts must comply.

Section 508 is U.S. legislation that aligns with WCAG 2.0 Level A and AA guidelines. While WCAG is an international standard, Section 508 incorporates it into U.S. law and adds specific requirements for federal agencies.

Our process includes an initial assessment, automated and manual expert reviews, assistive technology testing, compliance reporting, remediation guidance, and a final review to ensure complete compliance.