Section 508

TL;DR: Section 508 testing ensures your website meets ADA accessibility standards by identifying and resolving barriers for users with disabilities. It combines automated scans with manual reviews to guarantee a seamless and inclusive digital experience. EqualWeb offers comprehensive solutions to help you achieve and maintain compliance efficiently.

What is section 508 testing

Making digital content accessible to everyone is more than a legal obligation, it’s the right thing to do. Section 508 testing ensures that websites, software and documents meet the accessibility standards that are outlined in the Rehabilitation Act, which enables people with disabilities access to online content seamlessly.
However, it’s important to be aware, section 508 compliance testing isn’t about ticking boxes, it’s much more than that. It identifies barriers that prevent individuals with visual, auditory or physical impairments from engaging with digital content fully. If you follow these standards, you not only stay on the right side of the law, but you also increase inclusivity, which fosters a much more loyal customer base. In the end, inclusivity enhances the experience for all users.

Why section 508 compliance testing matters

Section 508 compliance testing is vital for both legal as well as practical reasons. Without proper testing you risk excluding users and as a result face lawsuits as well as harming your brand’s reputation. Thorough testing reveals any issues that need fixing in order to ensure a smooth and accessible user experience.
Here’s what Section 508 testing focuses on:

• Compatibility with assistive technologies like screen readers and voice navigation tools.
• Proper use of alt text for images and accessible forms.
• Adequate color contrast for users with visual impairments.
• Keyboard navigability for those who can’t use a mouse.

How Section 508 Testing Works

Section 508 testing uses a blend of automated and manual methods. Automated tools can quickly scan your website for common accessibility errors, however manual testing is crucial to really understand the users experience and to make sure that the content on the site works well will various assistive technologies.
At EqualWeb we’ve taken a hybrid approach to this. Our automated tools pinpoint technical issues while our experts perform manual reviews to make sure that the changes are usable in real life. By utilizing both automated and manual tests and remediations we can assure the highest standards of accessibility, not just the basics.

Steps to Achieve Section 508 Compliance

1. Initial Audit: Start with a detailed evaluation of your website to uncover accessibility issues.
2. Automated Testing: Use tools like EqualWeb’s accessibility scanner to identify common problems.
3. Manual Testing: Bring in experts to test user interactions and compatibility with assistive technologies.
4. Remediation: Fix the identified issues by updating your content, code, or design.
5. Re-Testing: Run follow-up tests to ensure all barriers have been removed.

The Benefits of Section 508 Compliance

Achieving Section 508 compliance comes with numerous advantages:

• Legal Protection: Avoid costly lawsuits and penalties by adhering to accessibility regulations.
• Broader Audience Reach: Make your content accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.
• Improved User Experience: Create a better experience for all visitors, regardless of their abilities.
• Enhanced Brand Reputation: Show your commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility.

Why EqualWeb

EqualWeb provides a seamless solution for Section 508 compliance. Our tools and services make the testing process straightforward, combining automated scans with expert manual reviews. We deliver clear, actionable insights to help you achieve and maintain compliance without unnecessary headaches.
Whether you’re just starting your accessibility journey or looking to fine-tune your strategy, EqualWeb ensures your digital content is inclusive and meets Section 508 standards.
Ready to make your website accessible and compliant? Start with EqualWeb’s Section 508 testing solutions and ensure an inclusive, legally sound digital presence.