Ask These Questions to a 508 Compliance Service Provider to Choose the Right One for You

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended in 1998, mandates that Federal agencies make their electronic and information technology (EIT) accessible to people with disabilities. This means that all digital content, including websites, must be accessible to those who have visual, auditory, or other physical limitations. To aid in the attainment of this goal, numerous 508 Compliance Services exist, offering guidance and expertise in achieving and maintaining compliance. Now, the pivotal task for an organization is to decipher which service provider is the optimal match for their requirements.

Let's delve into the process of selecting a provider, and the specific inquiries that must be asked to ensure a judicious decision. These queries are designed to elicit valuable insights about the providers' proficiency, experience, and approach to their services, and thus, should be viewed through the lens of your organization’s specific needs.

• How do you stay abreast of the latest changes in 508 compliance?

  Laws and standards are not static; they evolve, guided by societal needs and technological advancements. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), for example, is frequently updated to address new technological realities. Therefore, it is pivotal that your chosen provider is not only updated with the latest changes but also can effectively implement them.

• How do you approach accessibility testing?

  The provider should be able to articulate the techniques they use for testing, including both automated and manual methods. While automated testing can identify common issues swiftly, manual testing is critical as it captures the user experience in a way automation cannot. Moreover, the provider should leverage assistive technologies during testing to mimic the user experience accurately.

• What assistive technologies do you test with?

  Assistive technologies such as screen readers, braille displays, and speech recognition software are instrumental for people with disabilities. Providers should be familiar with a variety of these technologies, implying a thorough understanding of different user needs.

• Do you offer remediation services?

  Remediation involves revising and correcting non-compliant elements of the digital content. A provider offering remediation services indicates their commitment to not just identifying but also resolving issues.

• How do you stay involved post-remediation?

  Compliance is not a one-time achievement; it requires ongoing vigilance. As such, the ideal provider will remain involved even after initial remediation, ensuring continual compliance.

• Can you provide references from past clients?

  References provide an opportunity to validate the provider's claims and gain real-world insights into their performance.

In selecting a 508 Compliance Service Provider, remember the Pareto Principle, also known as the 80/20 rule. In this context, it implies that a select few providers will likely provide the majority of the value. Thus, your quest is to identify and engage with this minority, a task made significantly easier through the application of these targeted inquiries.

In conclusion, choosing a 508 Compliance Service Provider is a crucial decision that demands rigorous scrutiny. By asking these questions, you can ensure that your chosen provider possesses the necessary knowledge, expertise, and approach to guide your organization towards a high degree of digital accessibility, thereby promoting inclusivity in the digital realm.

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended in 1998, mandates that Federal agencies make their electronic and information technology (EIT) accessible to people with disabilities.