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