By: Nancy Pierce
Every day, the digital world brings us incredible, mind-blowing discoveries in various fields. These advancements significantly enhance our quality of life, but unfortunately, they are not accessible to everyone. People with physical disabilities often face the greatest challenges in accessing new technologies, particularly innovative software.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there are approximately 60 million Americans with officially recognized disabilities. Individuals with congenital or acquired impairments in vision, hearing, cognitive abilities, or motor functions due to severe illnesses are deprived of basic access to devices, the internet, or mobile applications.
“We could change this situation by paying more attention to software Accessibility Testing – evaluating software products for their usability by people with various forms of disabilities,” says Krystyna Sylyvonchyk, an IT specialist from Connecticut.
With many years of experience in information technology, backed by numerous professional certifications including an MBA in IT and ISTQB, Krystyna Sylyvonchyk believes companies should plan for Accessibility Testing even before software development. This approach saves significant costs in the long run and enhances a company’s reputation in both society and business circles.
What is Software Accessibility Testing?
Simply put, software accessibility testing is the evaluation of digital content, particularly software, to ensure it meets the standards and guidelines of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). In the United States, this is regulated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which guarantees equal access to an active, fulfilling life, services, and information for people with disabilities.
“Many unique software remains inaccessible to people with physical disabilities. For example, individuals with visual impairments primarily rely on audio prompts. Therefore, all websites and mobile applications should include voice guidance. Additionally, the needs of other people with physical disabilities, such as those with hearing impairments, and motor and cognitive dysfunctions, must also be considered,” Krystyna Sylyvonchyk explains.
Unfortunately, not all companies adhere to these guidelines. While some corporations, like Apple, integrate inclusion into their production processes, this is not sufficient for the entire country, according to the expert. It’s crucial for Accessibility Testing to become a fundamental principle for any software, whether it’s an online service, an educational platform, or a news resource.
Why is Software Accessibility Testing important for business?
First and foremost, companies that focus on software accessibility testing demonstrate care for all their customers. Creating software products that address the needs of this particular group of people is called social responsibility. This not only improves a company’s reputation in the business world but also contributes to creating a more equitable society, as Krystyna Sylyvonchyk told.
Furthermore, there is an economic aspect. Given that people with physical disabilities make up approximately 20% of the U.S. population today, ignoring their need for fully accessible software means missing out on a significant user base. By ensuring their software is accessible to these individuals, companies can attract and retain a large volume of investments and profits, positively impacting their business and the overall U.S. economy.
Additionally, let’s not forget the legal requirements. The ADA mandates software accessibility testing, so it is essential for all companies to not only comply with this law but also involve people with various physical disabilities directly in the testing process.
As Krystyna Sylyvonchyk pointed out, such experience can significantly improve software for all users. For example, adding subtitles to videos not only helps people with hearing impairments but is also beneficial for those watching videos in noisy environments. Enhancing navigation and interface clarity makes software more user-friendly for everyone.
In conclusion, software accessibility testing is not just a technical process but a crucial aspect of creating an inclusive and fair digital world. Ensuring equal opportunities for all people through accessibility testing showcases companies’ social responsibility, increases their profitability, broadens their audience, and enhances overall user experience. By focusing on these elements – especially when doing it together, – we can make our crazy world a little bit better.
Published By: Aize Perez
