In an increasingly digital world, accessibility has become a vitally important issue. Technology companies, especially those distributing technology solutions, have a responsibility to ensure that their products and services are accessible to all users. It is in this context that the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template, better known as VPAT®, becomes relevant.
VPAT®: the voluntary declaration of accessibility
The VPAT, also known as the Voluntary Declaration of Accessibility, is a template that analyses in detail how an ICT product or service complies with established accessibility criteria and standards. This statement is based on international guidelines such as WCAG 2.2 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended in 1998). Manufacturers and suppliers of ICT products use the VPAT to describe and verify that their products comply with established accessibility requirements.
On the other hand, in terms of Europe, there is also a VPAT model adapted to the European declaration model, following the requirements established by the EN 301 549 standard.
Furthermore, the accessibility evaluation performed through VPAT® generates an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR), aligned with international regulations, enabling organisations and individuals to make informed decisions about the accessibility of ICT products.
It is essential to distinguish between the VPAT® and the ACR. The VPAT® is the template that guides the accessibility evaluation of a product, while the ACR is the final report based on the VPAT®. The VPAT® includes a description of the product, evaluation methods used and additional notes in a standard Microsoft Word format.
The importance of using VPAT®
The use of VPAT® is crucial to promote equity in access to and use of technology, a vital element for the digital inclusion of people with diverse abilities and disabilities. In the European Union, more than 87 million people live with a disability, underlining the need for accessible digital products for all.
VPAT® provides users and potential buyers with essential information on the accessibility of ICT products, promoting transparency and fostering inclusiveness. It has thus become an internationally recognised solution for private companies wishing to voluntarily declare the accessibility of their digital channels.
It also aligns with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), offering companies the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
VPAT® in the private sector
VPAT® is essential for technology companies for several key reasons:
- Regulatory compliance: ensures that products and services comply with accessibility regulations, avoiding penalties and lawsuits, especially in government contracts that require Section 508.
- Market expansion: ensuring accessibility opens up market opportunities, attracting customers with disabilities, who represent approximately 15% of the world’s population.
- Improved user experience: accessible products improve usability and satisfaction for all users, not just those with disabilities.
- Corporate social responsibility: demonstrating a commitment to accessibility enhances the company’s image and reinforces its reputation in the market.
Versions of the voluntary accessibility statement
There are several versions of the VPAT®, each designed to assess compliance with different accessibility standards, as accessibility standards have evolved with technological innovation.
- WCAG edition: designed to assess compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).
- Issue 508: focuses on verifying compliance with US Section 508 standards, which ensure equal access to technology for people with disabilities.
- EU edition: adapted to assess compliance with European standard EN 301 549.
- INT Edition: it has an international focus and assesses compliance with the three standards mentioned above: WCAG, Section 508 and EN 301 549.
Adopting VPAT® helps companies comply with various accessibility regulations and demonstrate their commitment to inclusion.
Our commitment to digital accessibility
At Tech4access, we specialise in helping companies to make their website or app fully accessible and compliant with regulations in an optimal and efficient way. In this case, through the preparation of their voluntary accessibility declarations using VPAT®.
Our team of digital accessibility experts carry out comprehensive assessments, ensuring objectivity and accuracy in every report, which reinforces our clients’ credibility.We are ready to support your company in its journey towards digital accessibility and inclusion – contact us to get your statement!
