Service Overview
Our VPAT testing and VPAT audit services provide an in-depth analysis of your ICT products to ensure compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), covering WCAG 2.0/2.1/2.2 and other accessibility standards. Whether you’re preparing to release new digital products or updating existing ones, TestPros ensures your Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) is accurate, clear, and meets the needs of people with disabilities.
What We Offer:
- VPAT Testing & Audit: Evaluate your ICT products against the Section 508 and WCAG standards and ensure digital accessibility.
- VPAT Report Service: Receive a detailed VPAT report for internal use or submission to federal agencies.
- VPAT ACR (Accessibility Conformance Report):We assist in producing a comprehensive ACR for ongoing accessibility compliance.
- Section-by-Section Guidance: Detailed evaluation of each VPAT section to meet all accessibility requirements.
- Expert Support: Ongoing consultation to support product accessibility improvements.
We Are Here To Assist You
Certified &
Independent
VPATs are crucial for businesses aiming to secure government contracts or expand their customer base. In fact, the U.S. federal government alone spends over $50 billion annually on IT products and services, all of which require VPAT compliance.
Our VPAT Testing Process
At TestPros, our VPAT compliance testing process is thorough, leveraging our expertise in digital accessibility to ensure complete and accurate VPAT documentation.
1
Initial Consultation & Requirements Gathering
We start with a detailed consultation to understand your product’s core functionality, target users, and accessibility goals. During this phase, we gather information about your ICT products, whether it’s a website, software application, or hardware, and establish the relevant accessibility requirements (WCAG, Section 508, etc.). This allows us to pinpoint the scope and complexity of the VPAT audit and create a strategic plan for compliance testing.
2
Preliminary VPAT Audit Using Manual & Automated Testing
Our audit phase begins by assessing your product against established standards like WCAG using both automated tools and manual testing with assistive technologies, such as screen readers. We assess everything from the interface’s visual design to the functionality of interactive elements to ensure comprehensive coverage. This step identifies the conformance level (Fully Supports, Partially Supports, Does Not Support) of each accessibility feature and highlights potential areas of concern.
3
In-Depth Section-by-Section Evaluation
Every section of the VPAT, including product documentation, user interface, and support materials, is reviewed for accessibility. We meticulously evaluate key areas like keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, and color contrast, ensuring your product or service meets the criteria for each aspect of the VPAT.
4
Drafting the VPAT ACR (Accessibility Conformance Report)
Based on our audit, we produce a draft Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR), which includes a breakdown of how your product complies with accessibility standards. This report is critical for federal agencies and buyers to assess whether your product is suitable for use by people with disabilities. Our ACR not only identifies the current conformance level but also provides detailed explanations for areas that “partially support” or “do not support” accessibility, ensuring transparency.
5
Accessibility Remediation & Recommendations
We offer remediation for areas where your product or service falls short. We also provide actionable recommendations if you have an in-house team. These might include suggestions for improving color contrast, adding proper alt text for images, or enabling keyboard navigation. TestPros partners with your development or design teams to ensure these changes align with your product’s functionality and user experience goals.
6
Final VPAT Report Submission
Once all necessary improvements are made, we complete the final VPAT report, ready for submission to federal agencies or to share with prospective clients. This comprehensive report will highlight your product’s accessibility strengths and ensure that it meets the current standards of the Information Technology Industry Council and other relevant guidelines. The final document can be used for procurement purposes or to showcase your commitment to digital accessibility.
Trusted Clients
Benefits of Our VPAT Services
Competitive Edge
Many government agencies and large enterprises require vendors to provide VPATs as part of their procurement process. By having a robust and comprehensive VPAT, you increase your chances of winning contracts and partnerships. This competitive advantage can lead to increased business opportunities and long-term relationships with key clients.
Legal Risk Mitigation
Ignoring accessibility can be costly. In 2023, web accessibility lawsuits increased by 20%, with average settlements ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. Investing in VPAT compliance now can save significant costs and reputational damage in the future.
Market Expansion
By ensuring your products are accessible, you tap into a significant market opportunity. The World Health Organization estimates that over 1 billion people worldwide live with disabilities, representing an annual disposable income of approximately $8 trillion. Accessible products not only enhance user experience but also attract a broader customer base, driving revenue growth.
Enhanced Brand Reputation
In today’s socially conscious market, 69% of companies are prioritizing digital accessibility initiatives. By investing in VPAT services, you position your brand as a leader in inclusivity and corporate responsibility. This commitment not only builds trust among consumers but also enhances your reputation among partners and stakeholders, making your brand more appealing in competitive markets.
Expert Guidance
Navigating the complexities of accessibility standards can be challenging. With our expert team, you gain access to deep industry knowledge and insights into the latest best practices. We provide actionable recommendations tailored to your specific products, ensuring that your accessibility efforts are effective and sustainable. Our ongoing support helps you stay ahead of evolving accessibility requirements, making compliance an integral part of your product development lifecycle.
Improved User Experience
Accessibility is not just about compliance; it’s about creating a better user experience for everyone. By identifying and addressing barriers, you enhance usability for all users, including those with disabilities. Research shows that accessible design often leads to improved overall user satisfaction, which can result in higher customer retention and loyalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a VPAT?
The cost of getting a VPAT varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the product, the number of features that need to be tested, and whether or not remediation is required. Typically, a VPAT audit can range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the scope of the work. This cost includes the initial VPAT audit, the drafting of the Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR), and consultations for any necessary remediation support. For products that need ongoing updates or maintenance, additional costs may apply.
How long does the VPAT process take?
The VPAT process typically takes between two to four weeks. This timeline includes initial consultations, VPAT audit testing, drafting the VPAT ACR (Accessibility Conformance Report), and any necessary remediation support. If your product requires extensive modifications to meet accessibility standards, this timeframe may be adjusted accordingly.
What is the difference between an ACR and VPAT?
A VPAT is the template used to document how accessible a product or service is, based on standards such as Section 508 and WCAG. An ACR (Accessibility Conformance Report) is the finalized document that results from filling out the VPAT, providing a detailed evaluation of the product’s compliance with those accessibility standards. The ACR is the document shared with government buyers or customers to show your product’s accessibility status.
Learn more in our article, The Definitive Guide to VPAT.
Who fills out a VPAT?
A VPAT is filled out by a company’s internal team responsible for product accessibility, often in collaboration with accessibility experts or consultants. At TestPros, we assist companies by conducting thorough, independent VPAT audits and filling out the VPAT on their behalf to ensure all necessary compliance standards are met and accurately represented in the report.
You can download our VPAT template to look at a sample document.
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