Modern web browsers have evolved tremendously, offering powerful tools that assist developers and testers in debugging and optimizing applications. Among these, Google Chrome DevTools stands out as an essential toolkit for inspecting websites, monitoring network activity, and refining the user experience. With continuous improvements in browser technology, Chrome DevTools now includes AI Assistant, an intelligent feature that enhances the debugging process by providing AI-powered insights and solutions. This addition makes it easier for testers to diagnose issues, optimize web applications, and ensure a seamless user experience.
In this guide, we will explore how AI Assistant can be used in Chrome DevTools, particularly in the Network and Elements tabs, to assist in API testing, UI validation, accessibility checks, and performance improvements.
Chrome DevTools offers a wide range of tools for inspecting elements, monitoring network activity, analyzing performance, and ensuring security compliance. Among these, the AI Ask Assistant stands out by providing instant, AI-driven insights that simplify complex debugging tasks.
1. Debugging API and Network Issues
Problem: API requests fail, take too long to respond, or return unexpected data.
How AI Helps:
Identifies HTTP errors (404 Not Found, 500 Internal Server Error, 403 Forbidden).
Detects CORS policy violations, incorrect API endpoints, or missing authentication tokens.
Suggests ways to optimize API performance by reducing payload size or caching responses.
Highlights security concerns in API requests (e.g., unsecured tokens, mixed content issues).
Compares actual API responses with expected values to validate data correctness.
2. UI Debugging and Fixing Layout Issues
Problem: UI elements are misaligned, invisible, or overlapping.
How AI Helps:
Identifies hidden elements caused by display: none or visibility: hidden.
Analyzes CSS conflicts that lead to layout shifts, broken buttons, or unclickable elements.
Suggests fixes for responsiveness issues affecting mobile and tablet views.
Diagnoses z-index problems where elements are layered incorrectly.
Checks for flexbox/grid misalignments causing inconsistent UI behavior.
3. Performance Optimization
Problem: The webpage loads too slowly, affecting user experience and SEO ranking.
How AI Helps:
Identifies slow-loading resources, such as unoptimized images, large CSS/JS files, and third-party scripts.
Suggests image compression and lazy loading to speed up rendering.
Highlights unnecessary JavaScript execution that may be slowing down interactivity.
Recommends caching strategies to improve page speed and reduce server load.
Detects render-blocking elements that delay the loading of critical content.
4. Accessibility Testing
Problem: The web application does not comply with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).
>How AI Helps:
Identifies missing alt text for images, affecting screen reader users.
Highlights low color contrast issues that make text hard to read.
Suggests adding ARIA roles and labels to improve assistive technology compatibility.
Ensures proper keyboard navigation, making the site accessible for users who rely on tab-based navigation.
Detects form accessibility issues, such as missing labels or incorrectly grouped form elements.
5. Security and Compliance Checks
Problem: The website has security vulnerabilities that could expose sensitive user data.
How AI Helps:
Detects insecure HTTP requests that should use HTTPS.
Highlights CORS misconfigurations that may expose sensitive data.
Identifies missing security headers, such as Content-Security-Policy, X-Frame-Options, and Strict-Transport-Security.
Flags exposed API keys or credentials in the network logs.
Suggests best practices for secure authentication and session management.
6. Troubleshooting JavaScript Errors
Problem: JavaScript errors are causing unexpected behavior in the web application.
>How AI Helps:
Analyzes console errors and suggests fixes.
Identifies undefined variables, syntax errors, and missing dependencies.
Helps debug event listeners and asynchronous function execution.
Suggests ways to optimize JavaScript performance to avoid slow interactions.
7. Cross-Browser Compatibility Testing
Problem: The website works fine in Chrome but breaks in Firefox or Safari.
How AI Helps:
Highlights CSS properties that may not be supported in some browsers.
Detects JavaScript features that are incompatible with older browsers.
Suggests polyfills and workarounds to ensure cross-browser support.
8. Enhancing Test Automation Strategies
Problem: Automated tests fail due to dynamic elements or inconsistent behavior.
How AI Helps:
Identifies flaky tests caused by timing issues and improper waits.
Suggests better locators for web elements to improve test reliability.
Provides workarounds for handling dynamic content (e.g., pop-ups, lazy-loaded elements).
Helps in writing efficient automation scripts by improving test structure.
Getting Started with Chrome DevTools AI Ask Assistant
Before diving into specific tabs, let’s first enable the AI Ask Assistant in Chrome DevTools:
Step 1: Open Chrome DevTools
Open Google Chrome.
Navigate to the web application under test.
Right-click anywhere on the page and select Inspect, or press F12 / Ctrl + Shift + I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Option + I (Mac).
In the DevTools panel, click on the Experiments settings.
Step 2: Enable AI Ask Assistant
Enable AI Ask Assistant if it’s available in your Chrome version.
Restart DevTools for the changes to take effect.
Using AI Ask Assistant in the Network Tab for Testers
The Network tab is crucial for testers to validate API requests, analyze performance, and diagnose failed network calls. The AI Ask Assistant enhances this by providing instant insights and suggestions.
Step 1: Open the Network Tab
Open DevTools (F12 / Ctrl + Shift + I).
Navigate to the Network tab.
Reload the page (Ctrl + R / Cmd + R) to capture network activity.
Step 2: Ask AI to Analyze a Network Request
Identify a specific request in the network log (e.g., API call, AJAX request, third-party script load, etc.).
Right-click on the request and select Ask AI Assistant.
Ask questions like:
“Why is this request failing?”
“What is causing the delay in response time?”
“Are there any CORS-related issues in this request?”
“How can I debug a 403 Forbidden error?”
Step 3: Get AI-Powered Insights for Testing
AI will analyze the request and provide explanations.
It may suggest fixes for failed requests (e.g., CORS issues, incorrect API endpoints, authentication errors).
You can refine your query for better insights.
Step 4: Debug Network Issues from a Tester’s Perspective
Some example problems AI can help with:
API Testing Issues: AI explains 404, 500, or 403 errors.
Performance Bottlenecks: AI suggests ways to optimize API response time and detect slow endpoints.
Security Testing: AI highlights CORS issues, mixed content, and security vulnerabilities.
Data Validation: AI helps verify response payloads against expected values.
Here I asked: “What is causing the delay in response time?”
Using AI Ask Assistant in the Elements Tab for UI Testing
The Elements tab is used to inspect and manipulate HTML and CSS. AI Ask Assistant helps testers debug UI issues efficiently.
Open the Network tab → Select the request → Ask AI why it failed.
AI explains 403 error due to missing authentication.
Follow AI’s solution to add the correct headers in API tests.
2. Identifying Broken UI Elements
Open the Elements tab → Select the element → Ask AI why it’s not visible.
AI identifies display: none in CSS.
Modify the style based on AI’s suggestion and verify in different screen sizes.
3. Validating Page Load Performance in Web Testing
Open the Network tab → Ask AI how to optimize resources.
AI suggests reducing unnecessary JavaScript and compressing images.
Implement suggested changes to improve performance and page load times.
4. Identifying Accessibility Issues
Use the Elements tab → Inspect accessibility attributes.
Ask AI to suggest ARIA roles and label improvements.
Verify compliance with WCAG guidelines.
Conclusion
The AI Ask Assistant in Chrome DevTools makes debugging faster and more efficient by providing real-time AI-driven insights. It helps testers and developers quickly identify and fix network issues, UI bugs, performance bottlenecks, security risks, and accessibility concerns, ensuring high-quality applications. While AI tools improve efficiency, expert testing is essential for delivering reliable software. Codoid, a leader in software testing, specializes in automation, performance, accessibility, security, and functional testing. With industry expertise and cutting-edge tools, Codoid ensures high-quality, seamless, and secure applications across all domains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does AI Assistant help in debugging API and network issues?
AI Assistant analyzes API requests, detects HTTP errors (404, 500, etc.), identifies CORS issues, and suggests ways to optimize response time and security.
Can AI Assistant help fix UI layout issues?
Yes, it helps by identifying hidden elements, CSS conflicts, and responsiveness problems, ensuring a visually consistent and accessible UI.
Can AI Assistant be used for accessibility testing?
Yes, it helps testers ensure WCAG compliance by identifying missing alt text, color contrast issues, and keyboard navigation problems.
What security vulnerabilities can AI Assistant detect?
It highlights insecure HTTP requests, missing security headers, and exposed API keys, helping testers improve security compliance.
Can AI Assistant help with cross-browser compatibility?
Yes, it detects CSS properties and JavaScript features that may not work in certain browsers and suggests polyfills or alternatives.
Automated testing has evolved significantly with tools like Selenium and Playwright, streamlining the testing process and boosting productivity. However, testers still face several challenges when relying solely on these traditional frameworks. One of the biggest hurdles is detecting visual discrepancies. While Selenium and Playwright excel at functional testing, they struggle with visual validation. This makes it difficult to spot layout shifts, color inconsistencies, and overlapping elements, leading to UI issues slipping through to production. Accessibility testing is another challenge. Ensuring web accessibility, such as proper color contrast and keyboard navigation, often requires additional tools or manual checks. This is time-consuming and increases the risk of human error. Traditional automation frameworks also focus mainly on functional correctness, overlooking usability, user experience, and security aspects. This results in gaps in comprehensive testing coverage.This is where CoTestPilot comes in. It’s a new and innovative solution that enhances Selenium and Playwright with AI-driven. We recently tried CoTestPilot in our testing framework, and it worked surprisingly well. It not only addressed the limitations we faced but also improved our testing accuracy and efficiency.
In this blog, we’ll explain CoTestPilot in detail and show you how to integrate it with Selenium. Whether you’re new to automated testing or want to improve your current setup, this guide will help you use CoTestPilot to make testing more efficient and accurate.
CoTestPilot is a simplified version of the AI Testing Agents from Checkie.ai and Testers.ai. It extends the capabilities of Playwright and Selenium by integrating AI features for automated testing and bug detection. By leveraging GPT-4 Vision, CoTestPilot analyzes web pages to identify potential issues such as visual inconsistencies, layout problems, and usability concerns. This addition helps testers automate complex tasks more efficiently and ensures thorough testing with advanced AI-powered insights.
Why Use CoTestPilot?
1. AI-Powered Visual Analysis
CoTestPilot uses advanced AI algorithms to perform in-depth visual inspections of web pages. Here’s how it works:
It scans web pages to identify visual inconsistencies, such as layout misalignments, overlapping elements, or distorted images.
The AI can compare current UI designs with baseline images, detecting even the smallest discrepancies.
It also checks for content disparities, ensuring that text, images, and other elements are displayed correctly across different devices and screen sizes.
By catching UI issues early in the development process, CoTestPilot helps maintain a consistent user experience and reduces the risk of visual bugs reaching production.
2. Various Testing Personas
CoTestPilot offers multiple automated testing perspectives, simulating the viewpoints of different stakeholders:
UI/UX Specialists: Tests for visual consistency, user interface behavior, and layout design to ensure a smooth user experience.
Accessibility Auditors: Checks for accessibility issues such as missing alt tags, insufficient color contrast, and improper keyboard navigation, ensuring compliance with standards like WCAG.
Security Testers: Examines the application for potential security vulnerabilities, such as cross-site scripting (XSS) or improper data handling.
These personas help create a more thorough testing process, covering different aspects of the application’s functionality and usability.
3. Customizable Checks
CoTestPilot allows testers to integrate custom test rules and prompts, making it highly adaptable to various testing scenarios:
You can define specific rules that align with your project requirements, such as checking for brand guidelines, color schemes, or UI component behavior.
It supports tailored testing scenarios, enabling you to focus on the most critical aspects of your application.
This customization makes CoTestPilot flexible and suitable for different projects and industries, from e-commerce sites to complex enterprise applications.
4. Detailed Reporting
CoTestPilot generates comprehensive bug reports that provide valuable insights for developers and stakeholders:
Each report includes detailed issue descriptions, highlighting the exact problem encountered during testing.
It assigns severity levels to each issue, helping teams prioritize fixes based on impact and urgency.
Recommended solutions are provided, offering guidance on how to resolve the detected issues efficiently.
The reports also feature visual snapshots of detected problems, allowing testers and developers to understand the context of the bug more easily.
This level of detail enhances collaboration between testing and development teams, leading to faster debugging and resolution times.
Installation
To get started, simply download the selenium_cotestpilot folder and add it to your test folder. Currently, CoTestPilot is not available via pip.
The ui_test_using_coTestPilot() function analyzes web pages for UI inconsistencies such as alignment issues, visual glitches, and spelling errors.
How It Works:
Loads the webpage using Selenium WebDriver.
Executes an AI-driven UI check using ai_check(), which dynamically evaluates the page.
Saves the results in JSON format in the ai_check_results directory.
Generates a detailed AI-based report using ai_report().
Screenshots are captured before and after testing to highlight changes.
Sample Selenium Code for UI Testing
python
# Import necessary modules
from selenium import webdriver as wd # Selenium WebDriver for browser automation
from selenium.webdriver.chrome.service import Service # Manages Chrome WebDriver service
from webdriver_manager.chrome import ChromeDriverManager # Automatically downloads ChromeDriver
from dotenv import load_dotenv # Loads environment variables from a .env file
# Initialize the Chrome WebDriver
driver = wd.Chrome(service=Service(ChromeDriverManager().install()))
# Load environment variables (if any) from a .env file
load_dotenv()
# Function to perform UI testing using coTestPilot AI
def ui_test_using_coTestPilot():
# Open the target web application in the browser
driver.get('http://XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX.com/')
# Maximize the browser window for better visibility
driver.maximize_window()
# Perform AI-powered UI analysis on the webpage
result = driver.ai_check(
testers=['Aiden'], # Specify the tester name
custom_prompt="Analyze the UI for inconsistencies, alignment issues, visual glitches, and spelling mistakes."
)
# Print the number of issues found in the UI
print(f'Found {len(result.bugs)} issues')
# Generate an AI check report and store it in the specified directory
report_path = driver.ai_report(output_dir="ai_check_results")
# Print the report file path for reference
print(f"Report path we've generated for you is at: {report_path}")
# Call the function to execute the UI test
ui_test_using_coTestPilot()
The accessibility_testing_using_coTestPilot() function evaluates web pages for accessibility concerns and ensures compliance with accessibility standards.
How It Works:
Loads the webpage using Selenium WebDriver.
Uses AI-based ai_check() to detect accessibility barriers.
Stores the findings in ai_check_results.
Generates an AI-based accessibility report with ai_report().
Screenshots are captured for visual representation of accessibility issues.
Sample Selenium Code for Accessibility Testing
python
from selenium import webdriver as wd
from selenium.webdriver.chrome.service import Service
from webdriver_manager.chrome import ChromeDriverManager
from dotenv import load_dotenv
# Initialize the Chrome WebDriver
driver = wd.Chrome(service=Service(ChromeDriverManager().install()))
# Load environment variables (if any)
load_dotenv()
# Function to perform accessibility testing using coTestPilot AI
def accessibility_testing_using_coTestPilot():
# Open the target web page in the browser
driver.get("https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy5nydr9rqvo")
# Perform AI-powered accessibility analysis on the webpage
result = driver.ai_check(
testers=["Alejandro"], # Specify the tester name
custom_prompt="Focus on identifying accessibility-related concerns."
)
# Print the number of accessibility issues found
print(f"Found {len(result.bugs)} issues")
# Generate an AI check report and store it in the specified directory
report_path = driver.ai_report(output_dir="ai_check_results")
# Print the report file path for reference
print(f"Report path we've generated for you is at: {report_path}")
# Call the function to execute the accessibility test
accessibility_testing_using_coTestPilot()
Sample JSON file:
Report
Common Elements in Both Functions
ai_check(): Dynamically evaluates web pages based on AI-based testing strategies.
ai_report(): Generates structured reports to help testers identify and resolve issues efficiently.
Screenshots are captured before and after testing for better visual debugging.
Understanding the AI-Generated Report
The ai_report() function generates a structured report that provides insights into detected issues. The report typically includes:
1. Issue Summary: A high-level summary of detected problems, categorized by severity (Critical, Major, Minor).
2. Detailed Breakdown:
UI Issues: Reports on misalignments, overlapping elements, color contrast problems, and text readability.
Accessibility Concerns: Highlights potential barriers for users with disabilities, including missing alt texts, keyboard navigation failures, and ARIA compliance violations.
3. Suggested Fixes: AI-driven recommendations for addressing detected issues.
4. Screenshots: Before-and-after visual comparisons showcasing detected changes and anomalies.
5. Code-Level Suggestions: When possible, the report provides specific code snippets or guidance for resolving the detected issues.
Advanced Features
AI-Powered Anomaly Detection
Detects deviations from design standards and UI elements.
Compares current and previous screenshots to highlight discrepancies.
Security Testing Integration
Identifies security vulnerabilities like open redirects and mixed content warnings.
Provides security recommendations for web applications.
Conclusion:
Integrating CoTestPilot with Selenium significantly enhances automated testing by incorporating AI-driven UI and accessibility evaluations. Traditional automation tools focus primarily on functional correctness, often overlooking visual inconsistencies and accessibility barriers. CoTestPilot bridges this gap by leveraging AI-powered insights to detect issues early, ensuring a seamless user experience and compliance with accessibility standards. By implementing CoTestPilot, testers can automate complex validations, reduce manual effort, and generate detailed reports that provide actionable insights. The ability to capture before-and-after screenshots further strengthens debugging by visually identifying changes and UI problems.
At Codoid, we take software testing to the next level by offering comprehensive testing services, including automation, accessibility, performance, security, and functional testing. Our expertise spans across industries, ensuring that applications deliver optimal performance, usability, and compliance. Whether it’s AI-driven test automation, rigorous accessibility assessments, or robust security evaluations, Codoid remains at the forefront of quality assurance excellence.
If you’re looking to enhance your testing strategy with cutting-edge tools and industry-leading expertise, Codoid is your trusted partner in ensuring superior software quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the test results stored?
The test reports are saved in the specified output directory (ai_check_results), which contains a detailed HTML or JSON report.
Is CoTestPilot suitable for all web applications?
Yes, it can be used for any web-based application that can be accessed via Selenium WebDriver.
Can I customize the AI testing criteria?
Yes, you can specify testers and provide a custom prompt to focus on particular concerns, such as accessibility compliance or UI responsiveness.
What type of issues can CoTestPilot detect?
It can identify:
UI inconsistencies (misalignment, broken layouts)
Accessibility problems (color contrast, screen reader issues)
Security risks related to front-end vulnerabilities
How does CoTestPilot improve Selenium automation?
It integrates AI-based analysis into Selenium scripts, allowing automated detection of visual glitches, alignment issues, accessibility concerns, and potential security vulnerabilities.
Accessibility is crucial in web and app development. As we rely more on digital platforms for communication, shopping, healthcare, and entertainment, it’s important to make sure everyone, including people with disabilities, can easily access and use online content. Accessibility testing helps identify and fix issues, ensuring websites and apps work well for all users, regardless of their abilities. It’s not just about following rules, but about making sure all users have a positive experience. People with disabilities, such as those with vision, hearing, mobility, or cognitive challenges, should be able to navigate websites, find information, make transactions, and enjoy digital content easily. This can include features like text descriptions for images, keyboard shortcuts, video captions, and compatibility with screen readers and assistive devices. Understanding the ADA vs. Section 508 vs. WCAG guidelines helps create accessible experiences for all.
Three key accessibility standards define how digital content should be made accessible:
ADA(Americans with Disabilities Act) is a U.S. civil rights law that applies to private businesses, public places, and online services. It ensures equal access to goods, services, and information for people with disabilities.
Section 508 is specific to U.S. federal government agencies and organizations receiving federal funding. It mandates that all electronic and information technology used by these entities is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
WCAG(Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is a globally recognized set of standards for digital accessibility. While not a law, it is frequently used as a benchmark for ADA and Section 508 compliance.
Many people find it challenging to distinguish between the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 because they are both U.S. laws designed to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. However, they apply to different entities and serve distinct purposes. The ADA is a civil rights law that applies to private businesses, public places, and online services, ensuring equal access to goods, services, and information for people with disabilities. For instance, an e-commerce website must be accessible to users who rely on screen readers or other assistive technologies.
In contrast, Section 508 targets U.S. federal government agencies and organizations receiving federal funding. Its primary aim is to ensure that all electronic and information technology used by these entities, such as websites and digital documents, is accessible to individuals with disabilities. For example, a government website providing public services must be fully compatible with assistive technologies to ensure accessibility for all users.
Although these standards overlap in their objectives, they differ in their applications, enforcement, and compliance. WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) also plays a crucial role as a globally recognized set of standards that guide digital accessibility practices. This guide will delve into these standards at length, providing details of their background, main principles, legal considerations, and best practices in compliance.
ADA: The Legal Backbone of Digital Accessibility in the U.S.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights statute passed in 1990 to ban discrimination against people with disabilities. Although initially aimed at physical locations, courts have come to apply Title III of the ADA to websites, mobile applications, and online services.
Key Titles of the ADA
Title I: Employment discrimination.
Title II: Accessibility for government services and public entities.
Title III: Covers businesses and public accommodations
Legal Precedents & Enforcement
Domino’s Pizza v. Guillermo Robles (2019) – A blind user sued Domino’s because its website was inaccessible via screen readers. The court ruled in favor of accessibility.
Target (2008) – Target paid $6 million after being sued for website inaccessibility.
Beyoncé’s Website Lawsuit (2019) – The singer’s official website faced legal action due to a lack of screen reader compatibility.
Compliance Requirements
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has not specified a technical standard for ADA compliance, but courts frequently reference WCAG 2.1 AA as the benchmark.
Who Must Comply with ADA?
Private businesses offering goods/services to the public.
Example: E-commerce platforms, healthcare providers, financial services, and educational institutions.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Lawsuits & Legal Fines – Organizations may face costly legal battles.
Reputational Damage – Public backlash and loss of consumer trust.
Forced Compliance Orders – Companies may be required to implement accessibility changes under legal scrutiny.
Section 508: Accessibility for Government Agencies
Section 508 is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, requiring U.S. federal agencies and organizations receiving federal funding to make their digital content accessible.
508 Refresh (2017)
The 2017 update aligned Section 508 requirements with WCAG 2.0 AA, making it easier for organizations to follow global best practices.
Who Must Comply?
Federal agencies (e.g., IRS, NASA, Department of Education).
Government contractors and federally funded institutions.
Universities and organizations receiving government grants.
Understanding WCAG: The Global Standard for Web Accessibility
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a collection of technical standards established by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) as part of the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). As opposed to ADA and Section 508, WCAG is not legislation but rather a de facto standard for web accessibility that has gained universal recognition across the globe.
History of WCAG
WCAG 1.0 (1999): The first version of accessibility guidelines.
WCAG 2.0 (2008): Introduced the POUR principles (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust).
WCAG 2.1 (2018): Added guidelines for mobile accessibility and low-vision users.
WCAG 2.2 (2023): Introduced additional criteria for cognitive and learning disabilities.
WCAG Principles: POUR Framework
WCAG is built around four core principles, ensuring that digital content is:
Perceivable – Information must be available to all users, including those using screen readers or magnification tools.
Operable – Users must be able to navigate and interact with the site using a keyboard or assistive technologies.
Understandable – Content should be readable and predictable.
Robust – Content must work well across different devices and assistive technologies.
WCAG Compliance Levels
WCAG has three levels of conformance:
Level A – Basic accessibility requirements.
Level AA – Standard compliance level (required by most laws, including ADA and Section 508).
Level AAA – The highest level, ideal for specialized accessibility needs.
Comparing ADA, Section 508 and WCAG
S. No
Feature
ADA
Section 508
WCAG
1
Type
U.S. Law
U.S. Federal Law
Guidelines
2
Applies To
U.S. Businesses & Public Services
U.S. Federal Agencies, Contractors & organizations receiving federal funding
Everyone (Global Standard)
3
Legal Requirement?
Yes
Yes
No (but widely referenced)
4
Compliance Standard
No official standard (WCAG used)
WCAG 2.0 AA
WCAG 2.1 / 2.2
5
Enforcement
DOJ, Lawsuits
Government Audits
No official enforcement
6
Non-Compliance Risks
Lawsuits, fines
Loss of contracts, compliance penalties
Poor accessibility, user complaints
7
A, AA, AAA Compliance Levels
Focuses on overall accessibility, not A, AA, AAA levels
Requires WCAG 2.0 AA compliance for federal entities
A: Basic, AA: Recommended, AAA: Optimal (often difficult to achieve)
1.Conduct an Accessibility Audit – Utilize tools such as Axe, ARC Toolkit, WAVE, or Color Contrast Analyzer.
2.Test with Assistive Technologies – Test for compatibility with NVDA, JAWS, and VoiceOver screen readers.
3. Ensure Keyboard Navigation – Users must be able to access all content without using a mouse.
4. Provide Alternative Text (Alt Text) – Include alt text for images and semantic labels for form fields.
5. Improve Color Contrast – Provide a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 between text and background.
6. Use Semantic HTML – Correctly structure headers, buttons, and links so they are simple to navigate through.
7. Ensure Captioning & Transcripts – Caption videos and make transcripts available for audio content.
8. Perform Regular Testing – Accessibility never ends; periodically test and keep up to date.
9. Ensure table readability – Provide a proper table header, table caption, and summary of the complex table.
10. Ensure Heading Level – Provide a correct heading hierarchy for every page, and every page should have an H1 tag.
11. Resize & Reflow – Ensure content adapts properly when resized for Resize up to 200% without changing any resolution and Reflow up to 400% change with resolution into vertical scrolling content (320 CSS pixels) and horizontal scrolling content (256 CSS pixels) without loss of functionality or readability.
12. Text Spacing – Allow users to adjust letter spacing, line height, and paragraph spacing without breaking layout or hiding content.
13. Use of Color – Do not rely on color alone to convey meaning; provide text labels, patterns, or icons as alternatives.
Conclusion
Ensuring digital accessibility is not just about meeting legal requirements—it’s about inclusivity and equal access for all users. By adhering to accessibility standards like WCAG, ADA, and Section 508, organizations can provide a seamless digital experience for everyone, regardless of their abilities. At Codoid, our team of skilled engineers specializes in accessibility testing using a range of advanced tools and techniques. From automated audits to manual testing with assistive technologies, we ensure that your digital platforms are accessible, compliant, and user-friendly. Trust Codoid to help you achieve accessibility excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest version of WCAG?
The latest version is WCAG 2.2, which introduces new success criteria for users with cognitive disabilities and touch-based interactions.
How does WCAG affect mobile accessibility?
WCAG 2.1 and 2.2 include guidelines for touch interactions, mobile screen readers, and small-screen adaptations to enhance accessibility for mobile users.
How do I check if my website is ADA or WCAG compliant?
Use accessibility testing tools like axe DevTools, WAVE, Lighthouse, and BrowserStack, and test with screen readers like JAWS and NVDA.
What are the ADA levels for WCAG?
WCAG 2.1 guidelines are categorized into three levels of conformance in order to meet the needs of different groups and different situations: A (lowest), AA (mid range), and AAA (highest). Conformance at higher levels indicates conformance at lower levels.
In today’s digital-first world, accessibility is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity. Accessibility testing ensures that digital platforms such as websites, applications, and eLearning tools are inclusive and usable by individuals with disabilities. By adhering to standards like WCAG 2.2, Section 508, and EN 301 549, organizations can create digital experiences that are functional for all users, regardless of their abilities. But accessibility isn’t just about compliance—it’s about ensuring that everyone, including those with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments, can fully interact with and benefit from digital content. This guide explores the tools, techniques, and best practices in accessibility testing.
What is Accessibility Testing?
Accessibility testing is a subset of usability testing that ensures digital content can be accessed by individuals with disabilities. The key goal is to ensure that content follows the POUR principles:
Perceivable: Users must be able to recognize and use content in different ways (e.g., text alternatives for images, captions for videos).
Operable: Users must be able to navigate and interact with content (e.g., keyboard accessibility, clear navigation structure).
Understandable: Content must be clear and readable (e.g., consistent structure, easy-to-understand instructions).
Robust: Content must be accessible via a wide range of assistive technologies (e.g., compatibility with screen readers and alternative input devices).
We can achieve this by using various accessibility testing tools that assist in identifying and resolving accessibility barriers. These tools help test screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, color contrast, and overall usability to ensure compliance with standards like WCAG 2.2, Section 508, and EN 301 549.
Accessibility testing tools fall into two main categories:
1. Assistive Technologies (AT) – These are tools used directly by individuals with disabilities to interact with digital platforms, such as screen readers and alternative input devices.
2. Accessibility Audit Tools – These tools help developers and testers identify accessibility barriers and ensure compliance with standards like WCAG 2.2, Section 508, and EN 301 549.
Assistive Technologies for Accessibility Testing
Screen readers are assistive technologies that convert on-screen content into speech or braille output. These tools enable users with visual impairments to navigate digital platforms, read documents, and operate applications.
Supports over 30 languages with advanced synthesizers.
Works with Microsoft Office, web browsers, PDFs, and email clients.
JAWS provides customizable scripting support through its JAWS Scripting Language (JSL), allowing users to enhance accessibility and streamline interactions with complex applications. This feature enables users to:
Create custom scripts to improve compatibility with applications that may not be fully accessible.
Automate repetitive tasks and optimize workflows.
Modify keystrokes and commands for a more intuitive experience.
Enhance the way JAWS interacts with dynamic or custom-built software.
Includes OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to read text from images and scanned documents.
Gesture-based navigation for touchscreen devices (iPhones/iPads).
Supports braille displays, rotor navigation, and VoiceOver gestures.
Works with Safari, Mail, iMessage, and other macOS/iOS applications.
Provides image recognition to describe objects and text in photos.
Users can adjust speech rate, voice customization, and verbosity settings.
ChromeVox
Designed for Chromebooks but can be added to Google Chrome on macOS & Windows.
Provides voice feedback and keyboard shortcuts for web navigation.
Works with Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides.
Supports ARIA attributes and HTML5 semantic elements.
TalkBack (Android’s Built-in Screen Reader)
Android’s default gesture-based screen reader.
Reads out buttons, links, notifications, and on-screen text.
Supports gesture navigation, voice commands, and braille display integration.
Screen Reader Accessibility Testing Checklist
Page Structure & Navigation
✅ Verify headings (H1-H6) follow a logical order for easy navigation.
✅ Check for a functional “Skip to Content” link.
✅ Ensure landmarks (‘nav’, ‘main’, ‘aside’) are correctly identified.
✅ Confirm page titles and section headers are announced properly.
Keyboard & Focus
✅ Test if all buttons, links, and forms are fully keyboard accessible.
✅ Verify proper focus indicators and logical tab order.
✅ Check for keyboard traps in pop-ups and modal dialogs.
✅ Ensure dropdowns, modals, and expandable sections are announced correctly.
Content & Readability
✅ Ensure images and icons have meaningful alt text.
✅ Confirm link text is descriptive (avoid “Click here”).
✅ Test ARIA-live regions for announcing dynamic content updates.
✅ Verify table headers and reading order for screen reader compatibility.
Forms & Error Handling
✅ Check that all form fields have clear labels.
✅ Ensure error messages are announced properly to users.
✅ Test real-time validation messages for accessibility.
✅ Confirm dropdown options and auto-suggestions are readable.
Multimedia & Dynamic Content
✅ Verify captions for videos and transcripts for audio content.
✅ Ensure media controls (play, pause, volume) are keyboard accessible.
✅ Test ARIA roles like role=”alert” and aria-live for dynamic updates.
Accessibility Audit Tools
These tools help developers and testers detect accessibility issues by scanning websites and applications for compliance violations.
WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool)
Developed by WebAIM, WAVE helps identify accessibility issues in web pages by providing a visual representation of detected errors, alerts, and features.
Highlights WCAG 2.1 & 2.2 violations, including missing alt text, color contrast issues, and structural errors.Provides detailed reports with suggestions for improvements to enhance web accessibility.
Offers real-time analysis without requiring code changes or external testing environments.
Includes a contrast checker to evaluate text-background color contrast for readability.
Supports ARIA validation, ensuring proper use of ARIA attributes for screen reader compatibility.
Works with private and locally hosted pages when used as a browser extension.
Axe DevTools
Detects WCAG 2.1 & 2.2 violations in web applications.
Provides detailed issue reports with remediation guidance.
Integrates into CI/CD pipelines for continuous accessibility testing.
Lighthouse
Google’s open-source accessibility auditing tool.
Checks for WCAG compliance, ARIA attributes, and semantic HTML.
Provides an accessibility score (0-100) with suggestions for improvement.
Works for both mobile and desktop testing.
macOS/iOS compatibility:
Fully functional on macOS via Chrome DevTools.
For iOS web apps: Use Lighthouse via remote debugging on Safari.
ARC Toolkit
Developer-friendly tool for in-depth accessibility testing.
Provides reports on ARIA attributes, focus order, and form structure.
ANDI (Accessible Name & Description Inspector) Tool
Identifies missing or incorrectly labeled interactive elements.
Checks for ARIA roles, form labels, and navigation issues.
Color Contrast Analyzer
Evaluates text-background contrast ratios based on WCAG standards.
Supports color blindness simulation to improve UX design choices.
Helps designers create accessible color schemes for readability.
BrowserStack Accessibility Testing
Enables cross-browser accessibility testing on real devices and virtual machines.
Supports WCAG and Section 508 compliance testing for web applications.
Integrates with automation frameworks like Selenium, Cypress, and Playwright for end-to-end accessibility testing.
Provides a Live Testing feature to manually check screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and color contrast.
Works seamlessly with JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver for real-world accessibility validation.
Cypress + axe-core
A JavaScript-based end-to-end testing framework that can be extended for accessibility testing.
Supports integration with axe-core to automate WCAG compliance testing within CI/CD pipelines.
Provides real-time DOM snapshots to inspect and debug accessibility issues.
Offers keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility testing using Cypress plugins.
Enables automation of ARIA role validation and interactive element testing.
Playwright + axe-core
Supports automated accessibility testing across Chromium, Firefox, and WebKit browsers.
Integrates with axe-core to detect and fix accessibility violations in web applications.
Allows headless and UI-based testing for better debugging of accessibility issues.
Enables keyboard interaction and screen reader testing to ensure operability for users with disabilities.
Provides trace viewer and accessibility tree inspection for advanced debugging.
The following table provides a comparison of key accessibility testing tools across different platforms, highlighting their license model and best use cases to help teams choose the right tool for their needs.
S. No
Tool Name
Platform
License Model
Best For
1
JAWS Inspect
Windows
Paid
Evaluating how screen readers interpret and read content
2
NVDA
Windows
Open-source
Testing screen reader compatibility for visually impaired users
3
TalkBack
Android
Free (Built-in)
Ensuring content is accessible for users relying on screen readers
4
Xcode Accessibility Inspector
macOS, iOS
Free (Built-in)
Inspecting and improving accessibility features in iOS/macOS apps
5
VoiceOver
macOS, iOS
Free (Built-in)
Evaluating VoiceOver functionality for visually impaired users
6
Rotor (VoiceOver feature)
macOS, iOS
Free (Built-in)
Checking if digital content is structured correctly for screen readers
7
axe DevTools
Cross-Platform (Web, Mobile)
Free (Basic) / Paid (Pro)
Automated accessibility audits for websites and mobile applications
8
Lighthouse
Cross-Platform (Web)
Free (Built-in with Chrome DevTools)
Evaluating website accessibility and performance metrics
9
Playwright + axe-core
Cross-Platform (Web)
Open-source
Automating accessibility checks in end-to-end web testing
10
Cypress + axe-core
Cross-Platform (Web)
Open-source
Integrating accessibility validation in web test automation
11
BrowserStack Accessibility Testing
Cross-Platform (Web)
Open-source
Integrating accessibility validation in web test automation
Conclusion
Ensuring digital accessibility is not just about compliance—it’s about inclusivity and equal access for all users. With the right tools and testing strategies, organizations can create digital experiences that cater to users with diverse abilities. From screen readers like JAWS and NVDA to automated auditing tools like axe DevTools and Lighthouse, accessibility testing plays a crucial role in making websites and applications usable for everyone.
At Codoid, we specialize in comprehensive accessibility testing solutions. Our expertise in tools like JAWS, NVDA, axe DevTools, Cypress, Playwright, and BrowserStack allows us to identify and fix accessibility barriers effectively. Whether you need automated accessibility audits, manual testing, or assistive technology validation, Codoid ensures your website meets WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549 compliance standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do automation tools help in accessibility testing?
Automation tools like axe DevTools, Cypress, Playwright, and BrowserStack scan web applications for WCAG violations, enabling early detection and quick remediation.
Why is accessibility testing important?
It ensures inclusivity, enhances user experience, and helps organizations comply with legal standards like WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549.
What tools are commonly used for accessibility testing?
Tools include screen readers like JAWS and NVDA, automated testing tools like Axe DevTools and Lighthouse, and color contrast analyzers.
What is the difference between manual and automated accessibility testing?
Automated testing uses tools to quickly identify common accessibility issues, while manual testing involves human evaluation to catch nuanced problems that tools might miss.
What are ARIA roles, and why are they important?
Accessible Rich Internet Applications (ARIA) roles define ways to make web content more accessible, especially dynamic content and advanced user interface controls.
How does accessibility testing benefit businesses?
It broadens the audience reach, enhances user satisfaction, reduces legal risks, and demonstrates social responsibility.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming software testing by making it faster, more accurate, and capable of handling vast amounts of data. AI-driven testing tools can detect patterns and defects that human testers might overlook, improving software quality and efficiency. However, with great power comes great responsibility. Ethical concerns surrounding AI in software testing cannot be ignored. AI in software testing brings unique ethical challenges that require careful consideration. These concerns include bias in AI models, data privacy risks, lack of transparency, job displacement, and accountability issues. As AI continues to evolve, these ethical considerations will become even more critical. It is the responsibility of developers, testers, and regulatory bodies to ensure that AI-driven testing remains fair, secure, and transparent.
Real-World Examples of Ethical AI Challenges
Training Data Gaps in Facial Recognition Bias
Dr. Joy Buolamwini’s research at the MIT Media Lab uncovered significant biases in commercial facial recognition systems. Her study revealed that these systems had higher error rates in identifying darker-skinned and female faces compared to lighter-skinned and male faces. This finding underscores the ethical concern of bias in AI algorithms and has led to calls for more inclusive training data and evaluation processes.
The rise of AI-generated content, such as deepfakes and automated news articles, has led to ethical challenges related to misinformation and authenticity. For instance, AI tools have been used to create realistic but false videos and images, which can mislead the public and influence opinions. This raises concerns about the ethical use of AI in media and the importance of developing tools to detect and prevent the spread of misinformation.
In Australia, there have been instances where lawyers used AI tools like ChatGPT to generate case summaries and submissions without verifying their accuracy. This led to the citation of non-existent cases in court, causing adjournments and raising concerns about the ethical use of AI in legal practice.
Some companies have been found overstating the capabilities of their AI products to attract investors, a practice known as “AI washing.” This deceptive behavior has led to regulatory scrutiny, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission penalizing firms in 2024 for misleading AI claims. This highlights the ethical issue of transparency in AI marketing.
Key Ethical Concerns in AI-Powered Software Testing
As we use AI more in software testing, we need to think about the ethical issues that come with it. These issues can harm the quality of testing and its fairness, safety, and clarity. In this section, we will discuss the main ethical concerns in AI testing, such as bias, privacy risks, being clear, job loss, and who is responsible. Understanding and fixing these problems is important. It helps ensure that AI tools are used in a way that benefits both the software industry and the users.
1. Bias in AI Decision-Making
Bias in AI occurs when testing algorithms learn from biased datasets or make decisions that unfairly favor or disadvantage certain groups. This can result in unfair test outcomes, inaccurate bug detection, or software that doesn’t work well for diverse users.
How to Identify It?
Analyze training data for imbalances (e.g., lack of diversity in past bug reports or test cases).
Compare AI-generated test results with manually verified cases.
Conduct bias audits with diverse teams to check if AI outputs show any skewed patterns.
How to Avoid It?
Use diverse and representative datasets during training.
Perform regular bias testing using fairness-checking tools like IBM’s AI Fairness 360.
Involve diverse teams in testing and validation to uncover hidden biases.
2. Privacy and Data Security Risks
AI testing tools often require large datasets, some of which may include sensitive user data. If not handled properly, this can lead to data breaches, compliance violations, and misuse of personal information.
How to Identify It?
Check if your AI tools collect personal, financial, or health-related data.
Audit logs to ensure only necessary data is being accessed.
Conduct penetration testing to detect vulnerabilities in AI-driven test frameworks.
How to Avoid It?
Implement data anonymization to remove personally identifiable information (PII).
Use data encryption to protect sensitive information in storage and transit.
Ensure AI-driven test cases comply with GDPR, CCPA, and other data privacy regulations.
3. Lack of Transparency
Many AI models, especially deep learning-based ones, operate as “black boxes,” meaning it’s difficult to understand why they make certain testing decisions. This can lead to mistrust and unreliable test outcomes.
How to Identify It?
Ask: Can testers and developers clearly explain how the AI generates test results?
Test AI-driven bug reports against manual results to check for consistency.
Use explainability tools like LIME (Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations) to interpret AI decisions.
How to Avoid It?
Use Explainable AI (XAI) techniques that provide human-readable insights into AI decisions.
Maintain a human-in-the-loop approach where testers validate AI-generated reports.
Prefer AI tools that provide clear decision logs and justifications.
4. Accountability & Liability in AI-Driven Testing
When AI-driven tests fail or miss critical bugs, who is responsible? If an AI tool wrongly approves a flawed software release, leading to security vulnerabilities or compliance violations, the accountability must be clear.
How to Identify It?
Check whether the AI tool documents decision-making steps.
Determine who approves AI-based test results—is it an automated pipeline or a human?
Review previous AI-driven testing failures and analyze how accountability was handled.
How to Avoid It?
Define clear responsibility in testing workflows: AI suggests, but humans verify.
Require AI to provide detailed failure logs that explain errors.
Establish legal and ethical guidelines for AI-driven decision-making.
5. Job Displacement & Workforce Disruption
AI can automate many testing tasks, potentially reducing the demand for manual testers. This raises concerns about job losses, career uncertainty, and skill gaps.
How to Identify It?
Monitor which testing roles and tasks are increasingly being replaced by AI.
Track workforce changes—are manual testers being retrained or replaced?
Evaluate if AI is being over-relied upon, reducing critical human oversight.
How to Avoid It?
Focus on upskilling testers with AI-enhanced testing knowledge (e.g., AI test automation, prompt engineering).
Implement AI as an assistant, not a replacement—keep human testers for complex, creative, and ethical testing tasks.
Introduce retraining programs to help manual testers transition into AI-augmented testing roles.
Ensure fairness and reduce bias by using diverse datasets, regularly auditing AI decisions, and involving human reviewers to check for biases or unfair patterns.
Protect data privacy and security by anonymizing user data before use, encrypting test logs, and adhering to privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA.
Improve transparency and explainability by implementing Explainable AI (XAI), keeping detailed logs of test cases, and ensuring human oversight in reviewing AI-generated test reports.
Balance AI and human involvement by leveraging AI for automation, bug detection, and test execution, while retaining human testers for usability, exploratory testing, and subjective analysis.
Establish accountability and governance by defining clear responsibility for AI-driven test results, requiring human approval before releasing AI-generated results, and creating guidelines for addressing AI errors or failures.
Provide ongoing education and training for testers and developers on ethical AI use, ensuring they understand potential risks and responsibilities associated with AI-driven testing.
Encourage collaboration with legal and compliance teams to ensure AI tools used in testing align with industry standards and legal requirements.
Monitor and adapt to AI evolution by continuously updating AI models and testing practices to align with new ethical standards and technological advancements.
Conclusion
AI in software testing offers tremendous benefits but also presents significant ethical challenges. As AI-powered testing tools become more sophisticated, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability must be a priority. By implementing best practices, maintaining human oversight, and fostering open discussions on AI ethics, QA teams can ensure that AI serves humanity responsibly. A future where AI enhances, rather than replaces, human judgment will lead to fairer, more efficient, and ethical software testing processes. At Codoid, we provide the best AI services, helping companies integrate ethical AI solutions in their software testing processes while maintaining the highest standards of fairness, security, and transparency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is AI used in software testing?
AI is used in software testing to improve speed, accuracy, and efficiency by detecting patterns, automating repetitive tasks, and identifying defects that human testers might miss.
What are the risks of AI in handling user data during testing?
AI tools may process sensitive user data, raising risks of breaches, compliance violations, and misuse of personal information.
Will AI replace human testers?
AI is more likely to augment human testers rather than replace them. While AI automates repetitive tasks, human expertise is still needed for exploratory and usability testing.
What regulations apply to AI-powered software testing?
Regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and AI governance policies require organizations to protect data privacy, ensure fairness, and maintain accountability in AI applications.
What are the main ethical concerns of AI in software testing?
Key ethical concerns include bias in AI models, data privacy risks, lack of transparency, job displacement, and accountability in AI-driven decisions.
The VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) is a standardized format used to create an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR). This report lists the accessibility standards with which a product or service complies while also highlighting any potential barriers that users may encounter. The VPAT Report serves as the foundation for creating an ACR, providing a formalized methodology to assess and report on a product’s compliance with accessibility standards such as WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549. It is a vital tool for software engineers, product owners, and compliance specialists to examine, document, and improve accessibility through thorough accessibility testing. By effectively utilizing a VPAT, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to accessibility, fulfill their legal obligations, and enhance user experience. This handbook will assist you in creating a VPAT report through distinct steps and illustrations, ensuring the creation of a comprehensive and accurate ACR.
Why is a VPAT Report Important?
A VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) report is important because it helps organisations assess and communicate the accessibility of their digital products, such as software, websites, and applications. Here’s why it matters:
1. Ensures Compliance with Accessibility Standards
A VPAT evaluates a product against accessibility standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), Section 508 (U.S. law), and EN 301 549 (European standard).
It helps businesses avoid legal risks related to non-compliance, such as lawsuits under the ADA(Americans with Disabilities Act).
2. Improves Digital Inclusion
A VPAT ensures that people with disabilities, including those using screen readers, keyboard navigation, or assistive technologies, can access and use digital products effectively.
This fosters a more inclusive digital experience for all users.
3. Boosts Marketability & Business Opportunities
Many government agencies and large enterprises require a VPAT before purchasing software.
Having a strong accessibility report makes a product more competitive in both public and private sector markets.
4. Identifies Accessibility Gaps
The report pinpoints areas where a product does not fully meet accessibility guidelines, helping teams prioritize improvements.
It serves as a roadmap for fixing accessibility issues and making informed development decisions.
5. Demonstrates Commitment to Accessibility
A VPAT shows that a company values corporate social responsibility (CSR) and is proactive in making its products accessible.
This can enhance brand reputation and trust among users.
Types of VPAT Report:
VPAT reports are categorized based on the accessibility standards they assess. The four main types of VPAT templates are:
1. VPAT 2.4 Section 508 (U.S. Federal Accessibility Standard)
The VPAT Section 508 report is primarily used by federal agencies, procurement officers, and government buyers to ensure that information and communication technology (ICT) products are accessible.
Who Needs This?
Companies and vendors selling software, websites, or IT services to the U.S. government.
Organisations that receive federal funding must comply with Section 508 requirements.
Developers ensure their products are accessible to government employees and the public.
Key Features:
When developing, acquiring, maintaining, or using ICT products, each federal department or agency (including the U.S. Postal Service) must follow the Revised Section 508 Standards.
Covers hardware, software, websites, electronic documents, and telecommunications products.
The WCAG VPAT is designed to ensure that ICT products and services conform to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), specifically WCAG 2.1 and WCAG 2.2. These are internationally recognized standards that define how digital content should be made accessible.
Who Needs This?
Website developers, designers, and content creators.
Software companies offering SaaS (Software as a Service) products.
Organisations that want to ensure their digital platforms meet global accessibility standards.
Key Features:
Provides universally accepted standards that organisations must follow to make websites, e-learning platforms, mobile applications, and other digital products accessible.
Covers WCAG 2.0, 2.1, and 2.2 at Levels A, AA, and AAA.
Applicable to websites, mobile applications, e-learning platforms, and online services.
3. VPAT 2.4 EN 301 549 (European Union ICT Accessibility Standard)
The EN 301 549 VPAT Standard is tailored to document compliance with EN 301 549, the European accessibility standard for ICT products and services. This VPAT is commonly used by companies that aim to sell their products or services within the European Union (EU).
Who Needs This?
Companies bidding for government contracts in the EU.
Software developers and IT service providers operating in European markets.
Businesses that need to comply with the European Accessibility Act (EAA).
Key Features:
Covers a broad range of ICT products, including software, hardware, and assistive technologies.
Ensures digital inclusivity for people with disabilities across European nations.
Based on WCAG 2.1 for web accessibility, with additional EU-specific requirements.
4. VPAT 2.4 INT (International Accessibility Standard)
This comprehensive VPAT template integrates accessibility standards, including Section 508, WCAG, and EN 301 549. It is ideal for organisations that operate across different regions and need to meet various compliance requirements.
Who Needs This?
Global companies selling software, digital content, or ICT products in multiple countries.
Organisations looking for a single accessibility report covering U.S., EU, and international regulations.
Businesses that prioritise accessibility as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy.
Key Features:
Ensures compliance with multiple accessibility laws and standards in one report.
Useful for companies that want to expand their market reach while maintaining accessibility compliance.
Reduces the need for separate VPAT reports for different regions, saving time and resources.
A Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) is structured into key sections that provide a detailed assessment of an ICT product’s accessibility. Each section helps vendors, compliance officers, and procurement teams evaluate how well a product aligns with accessibility standards. Here’s a breakdown of the main sections of a VPAT report:
1. Executive Summary
This section provides a high-level overview of the product or service being evaluated. It includes:
A brief description of the product
The purpose of the VPAT report
The accessibility standards covered (e.g., WCAG 2.1, Section 508, EN 301 549).
The organisation’s approach to accessibility.
Why It Matters:
The Executive Summary helps procurement officers and decision-makers quickly understand whether a product meets accessibility requirements.
2. Scope of the Report
This section defines the boundaries of the accessibility evaluation, including:
What specific product, service, or version is being assessed?
Which components (e.g., software interface, web application, mobile app) are covered?
Any limitations or exclusions.
Why It Matters:
Clarifying the scope ensures transparency about what aspects of the product have been evaluated and helps stakeholders understand any accessibility gaps.
3. Conformance Standards & Guidelines
This section outlines the accessibility standards against which the product is evaluated. It typically includes:
Section 508 (U.S. Government Standard)
WCAG 2.1 or WCAG 2.2 (Global Web Accessibility Standard)
EN 301 549 (European Accessibility Standard)
European Standards Breakdown (EN 301 549)
9 (Web) – Focuses on web accessibility, ensuring that websites and web applications are usable by individuals with disabilities.
11 (Software) – Ensures software applications support assistive technologies and include built-in accessibility features.
12 (Documentation and Support Services) – Requires that documentation and customer support services be accessible, providing alternative formats and necessary support.
Section 508 Standards Breakdown
501 (Web and Software) – Ensures web content and software applications are accessible, including compatibility with assistive technologies like screen readers and keyboard navigation.
504 (Authoring Tools) – Requires that tools used to create web content or software be accessible and support users in creating accessible content, including features for individuals with disabilities (e.g., keyboard shortcuts and screen reader support).
602 (Support Documentation) – Mandates that user manuals, help guides, and online support are accessible, offering alternative formats such as audio, braille, or screen-readable PDFs.
Why It Matters:
Listing the conformance standards ensures organisations comply with local and international accessibility laws, depending on where they operate.
4. Detailed Accessibility Conformance Report
This is the core section of the VPAT and includes a table that evaluates the product’s compliance with each accessibility criterion. The table generally contains:
S. No
Criteria
Conformance Level
Remarks & Explanations
1
Keyboard Navigation (WCAG 2.1.1)
Supports
Fully navigable using a keyboard.
2
Contrast Ratio (WCAG 1.4.3)
Partially Supports
Some UI elements may not meet the 4.5:1 ratio
3
Screen Reader Compatibility
Does Not Support
Some text labels are missing for assistive technologies.
Conformance Levels:
Supports – The feature is fully accessible.
Partially Supports – Some elements are accessible, but improvements are needed.
Does Not Support – The feature is not accessible.
Not Applicable (N/A) – The criterion does not apply to the product.
Why It Matters:
This section provides detailed insights into where the product meets or falls short of accessibility requirements, guiding developers on areas for improvement.
5. Remarks & Explanations
This section expands on the evaluation table by offering additional context or justifications for conformance ratings. It may include:
Descriptions of workarounds for inaccessible features.
Planned future accessibility improvements.
Links to additional support documentation or accessibility statements.
Why It Matters:
Providing explanations ensures transparency and helps buyers understand potential accessibility barriers before procurement.
6. Legal Disclaimer & Contact Information
The VPAT concludes with:
A legal disclaimer outlining the accuracy of the information provided.
Contact details for accessibility support, including email, phone number, or website.
Why It Matters:
This section allows organisations to address any accessibility concerns directly with the vendor.
Gathering Necessary Information Before Drafting Your Report:
Testing Environment: Use Windows 11, Chrome, NVDA, JAWS, Color Contrast Analyzer, and keyboard-only navigation for testing.
Product Overview: Understand the product’s purpose, target users, and platforms (e.g., website, app, software).
Accessibility Features: Check for keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, alt text for images, and colour contrast.
Conformance Levels: Record if the product supports, partially supports, does not support, or is not applicable for each feature.
Bug Documentation: Log any issues with a description, actual vs. expected results, steps to reproduce, and WCAG guidelines violated.
Compliance Standards: Reference WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549 standards when documenting issues.
Assistive Technology Testing: Test the product with screen readers, voice recognition tools, and magnification software.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a VPAT Report
Step 1: Choose the Correct VPAT Template
You can download the Sample VPAT templates from Codoid –Download Here
Step 2: Fill Out the VPAT Sections
Product Information
Evaluation Methods Used
Applicable Standards & Guidelines
Step 3: Completing the Conformance Table
Example VPAT Table for WCAG 2.1 Compliance
S. No
Criteria
Conformance Leve
Remarks & Explanations
1
1.1.1 Non-text Content
Supports
All images have alt text and decorative images are hidden with aria-hidden=”true”.
2
1.3.1 Info & Relationships
Partially Supports
Some form labels are missing, affecting screen reader users. Fix planned for next release
3
1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum)
Supports
The text meets the 4.5:1 contrast ratio requirement.
4
2.1.1 Keyboard Navigation
Does Not Support
The dropdown menu is not keyboard accessible. A fix is in development
5
2.4.6 Headings and Labels
Supports
Proper headings and labels are used to improve navigation.
6
4.1.2 Name, Role, Value
Supports
All interactive elements have appropriate ARIA attributes.
Step 4: Provide a Summary and Recommendations
Example Summary:
Overall Compliance: Partially Supports WCAG 2.1 AA Key Issues Identified:
Dropdown menus are not keyboard accessible.
Some form labels are missing, making it difficult for screen readers.
Improvements are planned for the next release.
Step 5: Finalize and Publish the VPAT Report
Review the report for accuracy and completeness.
Fix major accessibility issues before publishing.
Provide the VPAT to customers, clients, or government agencies upon request.
Conclusion:
The VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) is an important tool for ensuring that products and services meet accessibility standards, providing a transparent assessment of their compliance with Section 508, WCAG, and European accessibility requirements. This report helps organisations assess and document how their products or services meet accessibility criteria, ensuring they are usable by people with various disabilities.By following the VPAT process, organisations not only comply with legal and regulatory requirements but also make their products more inclusive and accessible, which ultimately leads to equal access for all kinds of people. Through careful documentation of testing environments, conformance levels, and success criteria, companies can identify potential barriers and address them proactively, aligning with standards such as Section 508, WCAG 2.1, and EN 301 549.
The VPAT is vital in offering transparency to buyers, particularly federal procurement officers and European Union markets, ensuring that the products they acquire meet the needs of users with disabilities. Ultimately, a well-prepared VPAT report provides the necessary insights for developers, compliance officers, and product managers to continuously improve and meet accessibility standards, contributing to the creation of a more inclusive digital world.
"Need a VPAT report? Our accessibility testing ensures compliance with WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549. Contact us today!"
-Software developers and product managers
-Companies selling digital products to the government or enterprises
-Organizations seeking to comply with accessibility regulations such as WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549
-Compliance officers ensuring products meet accessibility requirements
How do I obtain a VPAT template?
The official VPAT templates can be downloaded from the Information Technology Industry Council (ITIC) website. Ensure you select the correct template based on the applicable accessibility standards.
What happens if my product does not fully support accessibility standards?
If your product has accessibility gaps:
Document the issues in the VPAT report
Provide explanations and planned improvements
Work on accessibility enhancements in future updates to improve compliance
Is a VPAT report legally required?
While a VPAT is not always legally required, it is often necessary for selling digital products to government agencies or large enterprises. Many organizations use it to demonstrate compliance with accessibility laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the European Accessibility Act (EAA).
Can I create a VPAT report myself, or should I hire an expert?
You can create a VPAT report in-house if your team has expertise in accessibility compliance. However, for a thorough evaluation, many organizations hire accessibility specialists to conduct audits and complete the VPAT accurately.
How often should a VPAT report be updated?
A VPAT should be updated whenever:
A product undergoes major changes or new versions are released
Accessibility features are improved or modified
New accessibility standards are introduced or revised
