At Barrierbreak, our accessibility experts assist you in creating VPATs and ACR for your HR Products & Solutions. We make HR tools & software accessible to ensure they are compliant to Section 508 & ADA.

HR Tech Market

The rapidly changing market dynamics have forced Human Resource in organizations to adopt new ways to respond strategically to the needs of the employees. Post pandemic, companies are most likely to make huge investments in HR Tech to deliver satisfactory employee experience. As per the report by the Fortune Business Insights – The HR Tech Market is expected to grow from $24.04 billion in 2021 to $35.68 billion in 2028 at a CAGR of 5.8% in forecast period.

HR is the department that handles employee recruitments, benefits, compensation, growth and development, and other employee issues. Meeting the needs of an increasingly diverse workforce is a challenge for many businesses. The number of workers with disabilities in the US is expected to double by 2020, according to a study by the National Organization on Disability (NOD). Businesses that want to attract and retain talent may need to rethink their hiring process and consider how they can accommodate employees with disabilities.

HR Tech products are designed to make the HR process more transparent and easier for companies but often this does not happen. HR Tech products are not restricted to a particular department but consumed by every staff in an organization. If a company wants their HR tech to be successful, then they need to make sure that it’s accessible to all their employees.

With expertise in WCAG, Section 508 and ADA testing, our team of accessibility testers at BarrierBreak supports organizations to ensure accessibility of HR Tech tools and solutions used for employee payroll and compensation, talent acquisition and management, workforce analytics, performance management, benefits administration, training and development.

Why Accessible HR Tech?

A lot of companies are thinking about accessibility in the procurement process. It is important to start making a roadmap if you want to be considered. Your HR tools become a differentiator if it is accessible.

1. Accessibility of HR tech ensures that the design is useful and accommodates a wide range of people with diverse abilities.
2. Accessible HR tech ensures support to your customers in delivering on DEI initiatives & mandates
3. Employee information is confidential, and it is critical to make it easier to access confidential information independently, irrespective of disabilities.
4. Incorporating Accessibility into HR Tech products is not only the right thing to do but also makes great business sense.
5. There are many federal and state laws that require HR Tech products to be accessible to people with disabilities.

The Gist

There are a lot of tech solutions that are meant to help you be more efficient in your HR department. Some of these solutions can streamline your processes, while others can add more insight into your employees.

HR tech should be more user centric. It is also essential to have a VPAT for your HRMS, HRIS and HCM solutions and ensure that they are accessible to all including people with disabilities.

Get in touch with us at sales@barrierbreak.com to know how you can incorporate accessibility in your HR Tech product.

The post Is Your HR Tech Accessible? appeared first on Leader in Offshore Accessibility Testing | Section 508 Compliance | WCAG Conformance | BarrierBreak.

In this blog we are trying to answer this question, so let us first start with understanding what VPAT is all about.

What is a VPAT? 

A VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) is a document about the accessibility of a product conforming to the Section 508 Standards. It can be considered as an accessibility conformance report for different Information and Communication technology (ICT) products such as applications, software, websites, electronic  products and documentation.

This document states, how a particular product meets or conforms to the Revised 508 Standards for IT accessibility. This document is published by the product vendor itself and it contains the details about each aspect of the Section 508 requirements and where does the product stand with regards to accessibility on each criterion. 

The Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) officially hosts the VPAT template document. ITI offers VPAT in four different editions enabling ICT vendors to create accessibility conformance report on the standards appropriate for their markets. 

• VPAT 2.4Rev EU (February 2020): It is created by keeping in mind the European Union’s “Accessibility requirements suitable for public procurement of ICT products and services in Europe”. 
• VPAT 2.4Rev 508 (February 2020): It is created by keeping in mind the U.S. Federal accessibility standard. 
• VPAT 2.4Rev WCAG (February 2020): It is created by keeping in mind Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. 
• VPAT 2.4Rev INT (February 2020): This edition incorporates all the above 3 standards/guidelines.

The latest VPAT version is VPAT 2.4 . Check out our blog on What is new in VPAT 2.4?

A VPAT document can consist reports based on different accessibility standards and guidelines as follows: 

• Section 508 (Refresh) 
• WCAG 2.0  
• WCAG 2.1  
• European Accessibility standards EN 301549 

So, make sure you always use the latest version VPAT 2.4 for creation of report. 

Now, back to the actual question about creating a VPAT for your technology product, should you or should you not? 

US Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires government agencies to make ICT accessible to people with disabilities. When you are a ICT company dealing with federal agencies it is mandatory to provide a VPAT. 

Even though it is a vendor’s own free will to provide a VPAT, the simple and wise answer would be, Yes! Yes, you should create a VPAT for your technology product. Since the government agencies opt for a product with VPAT, it might be fruitful for your product to have a VPAT as it places your product into the arena where the Federal procurements are made. Without a VPAT it is quite possible that you are losing money as your product might be as good as other products available in the market. 

As a VPAT vendor, BarrierBreak works with our customers to create an effective and complete VPAT and ACR of the product. Discuss your VPAT Strategy with an Accessibility Expert today. 

Let us now understand what VPAT is not all about.

What VPAT is not all about? 

• Companies might be hesitant in creating a VPAT report for a product as they might think their product will be shown in a bad light. Such is not the case. It is important to know that a VPAT is not a black and white statement about the conformance of a product. In fact, it is a report on the overall level of conformance of the product.  
• VPAT is not about listing all the issues, but it is about giving the overview of the successes and challenges found in the product. 

What are the benefits of creating a VPAT? 

VPAT indicates a product’s compliance with Section 508 standards. It is a crucial document for both companies as well as buyers. 

• Helps to boost the sales and thereby increase the revenue. 
• Helps the company recognize the accessibility gaps and challenges of the product and work towards it. VPAT acts as a measure to make the product accessible for which the employees of the company can work towards a common goal i.e. developing accessible product. Using the VPAT report the company can look into the areas where the product needs improvement in accessibility and work towards the quality of the product constantly. 
• Helps buyers in making an informed decision before procuring an ICT product. VPAT helps the buyers to understand a product’s level of accessibility conformance. Makes the procuring process hassle free as the buyer can get all the accessibility details through the VPAT instead of reading from the product brochure.  
• Helps buyers to compare conformance of similar products and choose a product that best meets accessibility standards and the organization’s functional and legal requirements. In case of a conundrum, buyers can choose for an equally accessible product when a required accessible product is not available. 
• Allows companies to provide documentation and an explanation on the level of conformance of their product. A drafted VPAT becomes a product conformance report which is an example of a company’s accessibility standard. Another benefit of VPAT is that it tells the buyers that the company is aware about the accessibility challenges of the product and is working towards making it equally accessible for all users.  

All in all, VPAT for a product benefits the organization in terms of monetary gains and builds trust and reputation. 

Where do I get my VPAT done? 

A VPAT can be created by an organization’s internal accessibility team. However, it is recommended to hire external party audit teams for the creation of VPAT. Outsourcing the VPAT ensures that the VPAT document is accurate and unbiased. Hiring a VPAT vendor or external accessibility agencies would ensure an accurate and good quality VPAT document. Since VPAT is a legal document for a product, you should aim for accuracy. 

Make sure the VPAT document you create is available in accessible formats such as PDF, Word, HTML, etc. 

In conclusion it is incredibly beneficial to create a VPAT document for your technology products. 

If you are looking out for a VPAT vendor to author VPAT for your product, reach out to us at sales@barrierbreak.com. 

The post What is a VPAT? Should I create a VPAT for my product? appeared first on Leader in Offshore Accessibility Testing | Section 508 Compliance | WCAG Conformance | BarrierBreak.

The decision is slightly more complex than an either or situation. Often the decision is based on product spread, headcount and budget. 

I believe that a strategically planned mix of an in-house team and an outsourced team as a combination will allow you to stretch your budget and implement accessibility effectively. 

In-house accessibility team 

As an organisation focusing on inclusion you want to own the accessibility mandate. 

Accessibility Lead / Head 

It is critical to have someone responsible for accessibility and who drives the mandate Across the organisation.

Responsibilities:  

• Shape the the accessibility culture of the Organization to go beyond compliance
• Create and align the accessibility strategy and budgets
• Partner with internal teams to bring alignment on accessibility.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders right from the executive leadership to the disability community.
• Build, manage, and develop a team of accessibility specialists.

Accessibility program manager

Focus on implementing the accessibility strategy and working towards compliance across product teams.

Responsibilities: 

• Work closely with stakeholders across the company, both technical and non-technical, to ensure accessibility awareness and compliance.
• Train product teams on accessibility practices.
• Partner with external vendors to provide documents  accessibility testing and compliance
• Managing VPATs and versioning.
• Managing customer relations on accessibility.

We have seen when Twitter Rolled out audio tweets without captions. The deaf community was soon to react. A perfect example of why each organisation needs a person who leads accessibility companywide and product wide.

Outsourced accessibility team

When it comes to accessibility subject matter experts or accessibility testers, you might find it beneficial to outsource due to multiple criteria:

• Product schedule
• Budgets
• Trained accessibility experts
• Access to disabled people as a part of testing team
• Availability of the needed assistive technology

Above all the flexibility to increase or decrease the team due to project schedules. 

Outsourcing is a way to have the relevant skills available without increasing head count and maximising your budget.

So why not the best of both worlds, and in-house team that owns accessibility and an outsourced team that delivers on the promise.

Need more information? Will be happy to get on a 1 hour tête-à-tête focused discussion on accessibility. Write to sales@barrierbreak.com

The post Why outsource rather than hire in-house accessibility testing teams? appeared first on Leader in Offshore Accessibility Testing | Section 508 Compliance | WCAG Conformance | BarrierBreak.

But, is it advisable?

The question that needs to be asked is, can a contractor who has built a building, audit their own work, or should it be audited by an independent?

I think the answer is obvious! You & I would trust an audit conducted by independent authority more than one which is self-audited.  

BarrierBreak is a leader in offshore accessibility testing and supports customers globally to meet their accessibility compliance.

Let’s dive deeper into “Why” Independent Accessibility Testing.

Ensure vendor fulfils Contractual Obligations

As an organization focusing on accessibility, you have in your contract with the development company specified that the solution meets Web Content Accessibility Guideline (WCAG) 2.1 – Level AA.
Your obligation doesn’t stop there. It is critical to conducting an independent accessibility test ensures that the vendor delivers on their obligation and allows you to get a product as per your specifications.

At BarrierBreak, we work with you to setup timely accessibility checks so that when the final product is delivered, it doesn’t lead to extra effort, delayed timelines and increased cost.

Unbiased Reporting

Performing an Accessibility Audit will allow you to identify gaps that can be addressed by the Developers prior to you accepting the project. This will also increase the accountability on the path of the development vendor to meet the accessibility standards.

We work with you to identify accessibility challenges and solutions that will allow people with disabilities to have equal access.

Pushing the envelope on implementing Accessibility

We often hear organizations say, an interaction is too complex and can’t be made accessible. This is one myth that we really need to change.

Everything can be made accessible. I know you might be saying, no that’s not what we have heard. But believe me, it can!  So, it would be good to challenge the development team to implement accessibility. 

Our team works with your development teams to provide innovative solutions to make even the most complex interactions accessible.

Provides Credibility & Enhances Customer Confidence

At the time of procurement, customers refer to Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates (VPAT). It is a good practice to describe your process to meet accessibility compliance and how you have conducted the testing.

Having a third-party expert organization lends to the credibility of the product.

Reduce Risk

Ensuring that your solution has been audited and meets compliance helps reduce the risk for customers. Accessibility is about ensuring compliance too. Ensuring that your product or solution has been vetted by accessibility experts who include people with disabilities can give you the advantage over your competition.

We understand the business case behind accessibility.

Specialization in Accessibility

You have the choice of working with a generalist or a specialist. Accessibility goes beyond a checklist and it is critical to choose a partner who understand Accessibility. With over 15+ years of experience and being the leaders in Accessibility in India, BarrierBreak has Accessibility is in our DNA. Our own team comprises of approx. 70% people with disabilities.

 So, it’s time to think about how you would like to approach accessibility at your organization. Connect today for a 1 hour tête-à-tête focused discussion on accessibility.

The post The ‘Why’ of having an Independent Accessibility Testing vendor? – Offshore Accessibility appeared first on Leader in Offshore Accessibility Testing | Section 508 Compliance | WCAG Conformance | BarrierBreak.

VPAT 2.0 was expanded to include the leading ICT accessibility standards, the Revised Section 508 (US), EN 301 549 (EU) and W3C WAI’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0. Information Technology Industry Council (ITIC) develops the VPAT and ensures that it is updated with the latest developments happening in different ICT accessibility standards and guidelines.

VPAT comprises of different Editions, WCAG, Section 508, EN 301 549 and International (Int) that include different accessibility standards and guidelines. The INT Edition of VPAT includes all the 3 leading ICT accessibility standards.

VPAT 2.4 was revised in February 2020 and was made available for download on March 7, 2020. Discuss your VPAT Strategy with an Accessibility Expert today. 

VPAT 2.4 Updates

Some of the key changes in VPAT 2.4 are:

• Template date: template date is now removed from the document as it created confusion with the Report date. The date will be there in the filename and only version information will be present in the document.
• Edition specific instruction: Instructions are changed based on the Edition, for e.g. in the WCAG Edition, only instruction related to WCAG is available.
• Table heading: A table missing heading in the previous version is now been added.
• EN 301 549 version: Links and tables of the EU and INT Editions are updated to reflect the new version of EN 301 459.

All in all, major update in VPAT 2.4 is associated with the EN 301 549 which reflects the new version of the standard and the other updates are relatively minor ones. So if you are focusing on the European Markets, time to update your VPATs.

We would love to hear from you! Share your inputs with us using the comments box below!

As a VPAT vendor, we provide VPAT audit support to our customers by conducting Section 508 testing and assisting them to create a VPAT and ACR for their product wherein we provide a third-party view of the product. If you are looking for an external accessibility consulting agency to author or update the VPAT for your product or service, write to us at sales@barrierbreak.com!

The post What’s new in VPAT 2.4? appeared first on Leader in Offshore Accessibility Testing | Section 508 Compliance | WCAG Conformance | BarrierBreak.