The latest iteration of the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT®), Version 2.5, released by the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), marks a pivotal advancement in accessibility reporting for Information and Communications Technology (ICT). For businesses with publicly facing websites and applications, and organizations vying for government contracts, understanding and using VPAT 2.5 effectively can be a game-changer. Here’s how VPAT 2.5 can become your ally in demonstrating compliance and inclusivity in your ICT offerings:
Understanding VPAT 2.5
The VPAT serves as the Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR), a key document for identifying ICT products and services with accessibility features. It includes Section 508 (U.S.), EN 301 549 (EU), and W3C/WAI WCAG, catering to a broad spectrum of global requirements. VPAT 2.5 introduces a detailed explanation column for each conformance level, offering clearer insights into product accessibility. Key takeaways include:
- Enhances reporting
- Latest global reporting standard
- Features comprehensive accessibility standards
Different Versions Depending On Your Needs
VPAT 2.5 is available in four editions, each tailored to specific market and regulatory requirements:
- VPAT 2.5 508: Focuses on the U.S. Federal accessibility standard, Revised Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
- VPAT 2.5 EU:Covers EN 301 549, the EU’s accessibility requirements for public procurement.
- VPAT 2.5 WCAG:Includes WCAG 2.0, 2.1, and the latest 2.2 guidelines for comprehensive web content accessibility.
- VPAT 2.5 INT:VPAT 2.5 INT: A comprehensive edition incorporating all the above standards for global applicability.
VPAT 2.5 Conformance Levels Explained
The VPAT 2.5 framework allows manufacturers and vendors to declare their product’s degree of conformance using a four-tier system:
- Supports = Fully meets the standard’s criteria without exceptions
- Partially Supports = Meets some parts of the standard’s criteria.
- Does Not Support = Fails to meet the standard’s criteria.
- Not Applicable = The standard’s criteria do not apply to the product.
At TestPros, we go beyond assessing your product’s conformance to accessibility standards; we bring clarity and insight to the process. Using a pie chart similar to the “VPAT 2.5 Conformance Level Distribution” shown above, we visually demonstrate how your product aligns with accessibility benchmarks. This approach not only simplifies the understanding of your product’s accessibility profile but also strategically highlights its strengths and areas for enhancement.
Such a visual representation can be instrumental in your discussions with stakeholders and potential government clients, showcasing your commitment to accessibility in a clear, comprehensible, and impactful manner. Our goal is to not only ensure your product meets the necessary standards but to also provide you with a powerful tool to communicate this conformance effectively.
Leveraging VPAT 2.5 for Business Advantage
Using VPAT 2.5 can give your business a real edge. It’s a clear way to show you meet essential accessibility standards, proving crucial in government contracts. Plus, a detailed VPAT highlights your dedication to inclusivity, setting you apart in a competitive market.
Best Practices To Use
- Accurate Reporting: Ensure that your VPAT 2.5 reports are thorough and accurately reflect your product’s accessibility features and limitations.
- Continuous Improvement: Use the insights from accessibility assessments to continually enhance the accessibility of your products.
- Professional Evaluation: Consider engaging accessibility experts to evaluate your products and compile VPAT reports, ensuring credibility and reliability.
For a comprehensive guide on VPAT, view our resource here.
Why VPAT 2.5 Matters To Your Business
VPAT 2.5 is more than a compliance document; it’s a strategic asset for businesses aiming to secure government contracts and show leadership in the ICT sector. By adeptly navigating VPAT 2.5’s requirements and leveraging its potential to showcase your commitment to accessibility, your business can gain new opportunities and build a reputation as an inclusive, forward-thinking enterprise. If you’d like help with the process of completing a VPAT, TestPros has more than 35 years of experience. Book a free introductory call below.
Download our sample VPAT 2.4 template.
This template can be used as a starting point to begin documenting your level of compliance with a VPAT. However, it’s recommended to work with accessibility experts to ensure full compliance.
