Test accessibility with those affected

Accessibility in software development plays a central role in making digital products accessible to all people. It is particularly important to consider accessibility early on in the development process and to establish suitable working methods. The use of aids such as Braille displays and screen readers illustrates how differently users interact with software and the challenges that arise. Style guides and the correct use of semantic elements are essential for creating accessible applications. Accessibility should not just be seen as a legal requirement, but as an integral part of high-quality software development.

Podcast episode on accessibility

In this episode of the Software Testing Podcast, I talk to Rene Matthäi and Serdal Bilir about accessibility in software development. Serdal, who is visually impaired himself, shares his experiences and challenges with software. He explains how he helps developers develop accessible software by inviting them into his world and showing them how he works with Braille displays and screen readers. Rene emphasizes the importance of being involved early in the development process and establishing the right working modes. We also talk about the role of style guides and the need to use semantic elements correctly to ensure accessibility. Finally, we discuss the importance of accessibility being seen as an integral part of software development, not just a legal obligation.

“I am blind myself, legally blind, I still have a very small visual test, I can still recognize outlines and light and dark, but I am legally blind.” - Serdal Bilir

After studying physics at TU Darmstadt, René Matthäi embarked on his journey along the digitalization path through companies and development teams, which is consistently quality-driven. Thanks to the extensive portfolio of his previous roles at Siemens and DATEV, he is familiar with a wide range of industries, where he was able to perform all functions related to software quality and the use of software. He is expanding his interest in agile learning in groups, awareness of quality as a driver for speed and strategies for the hybrid integration of people, development models and technologies and is pursuing this at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees, as well as co-organizing the German Testing Day.

Serdal Bilir is a “Senior Consultant and Tester for Accessibility in Software Development” at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees. He has been contributing his in-depth knowledge in the areas of accessibility and usability since 2017. After his training and valuable professional years at Evosoft GmbH, he specialized in accessibility testing and advises development teams to ensure accessible applications right from the start.

Highlights of the Episode

• The role of an accessibility tester involves supporting developers in the creation of accessible software.
• Aids such as Braille displays and screen readers are used when testing software.
• The early integration of accessibility into projects is of great importance.
• Legal requirements for accessibility have a considerable influence on the design of projects.
• Good accessibility often goes hand in hand with a solid software architecture.

Practical tips for accessible software

Accessibility in software development: challenges, solutions and perspectives

Accessibility is a key aspect of modern software development to ensure that digital products are accessible to all people, including those with disabilities. People with visual impairments, such as the legally blind, use aids such as screen readers or Braille displays to use software. Integrating their perspectives into the development process is essential to create accessible applications.

Challenges in the implementation of accessibility

One of the biggest challenges in software projects is the late consideration of accessibility. The topic is often only addressed towards the end of the development process, which leads to considerable rework. In addition, there is often a lack of basic understanding of the requirements necessary for accessible software. Developers need to actively empathize with the needs of people with disabilities, which can be difficult without appropriate experience and training. Close collaboration between testers who specialize in accessibility and developers is crucial here.

Practical solutions and tools to promote accessibility

Practical approaches and tools can be used to increase the awareness and competence of developers in the area of accessibility. Screen readers and Braille displays make it possible to directly experience the user experience of people with visual impairments. Open source tools such as NVDA (Non-Visual Desktop Access) offer a cost-effective and accessible way to take the first steps in this area. Such tools help developers to identify and eliminate potential barriers in their software.

The importance of standards and reusability

Standards and reusability play a central role in the development of accessible software. Similar challenges are often solved multiple times in projects due to a lack of standardized components and style guides. The introduction of such standards ensures a consistent user experience and simultaneously increases efficiency in the development process.

Future prospects for accessibility in software development

The future of accessibility in software development is promising. The increased awareness of the importance of inclusive technologies, supported by laws and regulations, is making a significant contribution to improving the accessibility of digital products. At the same time, the intrinsic motivation of many companies to establish accessibility as an integral part of their processes is growing. Continuous training and awareness-raising measures are essential to ensure this progress is sustainable. These measures not only promote technical competence, but also an understanding of the needs of all users.

Fazit

Accessibility is an important step towards an inclusive digital world. Early integration, the use of proven tools, standardized processes and regular training can ensure that software is accessible to all. With the right commitment and close collaboration between all stakeholders, barriers can be overcome and long-term improvements achieved.

Frequently asked questions about accessibility tests

How do companies benefit from an accessibility test?

Companies benefit from an accessibility test by making their products and services accessible to all users. This increases customer satisfaction and expands the customer base, including people with disabilities. A successful accessibility test strengthens the brand image and demonstrates responsibility, which in turn promotes customer loyalty. It also helps to minimize legal risks and meets legal requirements. Overall, it increases competitiveness and enables better market access.

Who should take part in an accessibility test and why is it important?

People with different disabilities should take part in an accessibility test, as they have direct experience of barriers. This includes people with visual, hearing or mobility impairments. Their feedback is essential to get a comprehensive picture of accessibility. Developers, designers and decision-makers should also be involved to ensure that digital and physical products are designed inclusively. An accessibility test is important to improve usability for all and meet legal requirements.

What are the steps for an effective accessibility test?

For an effective accessibility test, you should follow the steps below: 1. define the target audience and their needs. 2. check the website or application with automated tools to detect errors 3. perform manual tests to evaluate the user experience with different tools 4. collect feedback from real users with disabilities 5. document the results and prioritize the necessary adjustments. These steps will help to sustainably improve accessibility and ensure that all users have access.

Which guidelines and standards are decisive for accessibility tests?

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) are crucial for effective accessibility testing. These guidelines provide clear standards to ensure that digital content is accessible to all users. In addition, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) can be used as another important standard. Compliance with these guidelines helps to break down barriers for people with disabilities and promote an inclusive user experience.

What common problems occur during an accessibility test?

Common problems with accessibility testing are inadequate test methods that do not take all user needs into account. Automated tools that do not recognize all barriers are often used. Missing or unclear documentation can lead to important aspects being overlooked. Lack of involvement of people with disabilities during testing is also common. These factors can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the accessibility test and result in websites or applications not being accessible to all users.

What are the benefits of an accessibility test and why is it important?

An accessibility test ensures that websites and applications are accessible to all users, regardless of their abilities. It promotes usability and expands the target group, which leads to a higher number of visitors. It also minimizes legal risks, as many countries have legal requirements for accessibility. Ultimately, an accessibility test not only improves the user experience, but also demonstrates social responsibility and a commitment to inclusion.

Which tools are best suited for accessibility testing?

The best tools for accessibility testing are Axe, WAVE and Lighthouse. Axe offers comprehensive analyses directly in the browser. WAVE enables a visual assessment of websites and highlights problems. Lighthouse is an integrated tool in Chrome that automatically performs accessibility tests and provides suggestions for improvement. Each of these tools supports developers in making websites more accessible and provides clear instructions on how to fix problems.

What are the advantages of an accessibility test and how is it carried out?

An accessibility test increases the accessibility of websites or applications for people with disabilities. The advantages are a broader user base, better user experience and legal security. The test is carried out in several steps: First, the target group is analyzed, then the test is carried out using special tools and methods. The results are then documented and recommendations for improvement are drawn up. Implementing these recommendations improves accessibility in the long term.

What does a digital accessibility test involve and why is it important?

An accessibility test checks whether digital content is accessible to all people, especially people with disabilities. It includes checking website design, navigation, text alternatives for images and color contrasts. Such a test is important to ensure that every user has equal access to information, which fulfills legal requirements and increases user satisfaction. Identifying and removing barriers promotes inclusion and reaches a wider audience.

What are the most important aspects of the W3C accessibility test and how is it carried out?

The W3C accessibility test assesses whether digital content is accessible to people with disabilities. The most important aspects are the perceptibility, usability, comprehensibility and robustness of the content. The test is carried out using technical tests, user feedback and a comparison with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). For example, keyboard usability, screen reader compatibility and alternative texts for images are checked. The aim is to identify and eliminate barriers in order to ensure inclusive use.