How to Test Accessibility With Automated Tools
Testing accessibility is a crucial step in ensuring that your website is usable for everyone, including individuals with disabilities. Automated tools can help you identify accessibility issues efficiently. Here’s a guide on how to test accessibility using these tools.
1. Understanding Accessibility Standards
Before diving into testing, it's important to familiarize yourself with accessibility standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These guidelines outline the best practices for making web content more accessible. Having a good grasp of these standards will help you better understand the issues flagged by automated tools.
2. Choosing the Right Automated Tools
There are several automated accessibility testing tools available that can help you identify issues on your website. Some popular options include:
- WAVE: An easy-to-use tool that highlights accessibility errors directly on your web page.
- Axe: A widely used tool that integrates with browser developer tools, providing detailed reports on accessibility issues.
- Siteimprove: A comprehensive solution that tracks website accessibility alongside SEO and performance.
- Lighthouse: A tool built into Chrome DevTools, offering audits for performance, accessibility, and more.
3. Running the Accessibility Tests
Once you have chosen your automated tool, follow these steps to run the tests:
- Install the Tool: If you're using a browser extension like Axe or a tool like WAVE, install it following the given instructions.
- Access the Web Page: Open the web page you want to test in your browser.
- Run the Test: Activate the tool and run an accessibility scan. Depending on the tool, you may need to click a button or navigate through the menu.
4. Analyzing the Results
Once the test is complete, review the results carefully. Automated tools typically categorize issues by severity - critical, serious, and minor. Pay close attention to critical issues, as these can severely hinder usability for people with disabilities.
Look for common accessibility problems such as:
- Missing alternative text for images.
- Inadequate color contrast.
- Missing form labels.
- Non-navigable content for keyboard users.
5. Making the Necessary Changes
After identifying the issues, prioritize them based on their impact on users. Start fixing the most severe problems first. For instance, add alt text for images, adjust color contrast for better visibility, and ensure all interactive elements are keyboard accessible.
6. Retesting and Continuous Monitoring
Once you've made the necessary changes, rerun the accessibility test to ensure that the issues have been resolved. Remember that accessibility is an ongoing process; regularly check your site with automated tools to catch any new issues as you continue to update and expand your website.
Conclusion
Automated tools are a valuable asset in testing accessibility, helping you create an inclusive web experience. However, keep in mind that automated testing alone might not catch every issue. Pair automated tools with manual testing and user feedback for a comprehensive accessibility strategy.