Testing for Accessibility

Key Concepts

• Automated Testing Tools
• Manual Testing Techniques
• Screen Reader Testing
• Keyboard Navigation Testing
• Color Contrast Testing
• User Testing with Assistive Technologies

Automated Testing Tools

Automated testing tools scan websites for common accessibility issues. These tools can quickly identify missing alt text, improper use of ARIA roles, and other accessibility errors. Examples include WAVE, Axe, and Lighthouse.

Example:

Using Lighthouse in Chrome DevTools to generate an accessibility report.

Manual Testing Techniques

Manual testing involves human testers checking for accessibility issues that automated tools might miss. This includes verifying keyboard navigation, ensuring proper heading structure, and confirming that forms are accessible. Manual testing ensures a thorough check beyond automated tools.

Example:

Manually navigating a website using only the keyboard to ensure all interactive elements are reachable.

Screen Reader Testing

Screen reader testing involves using screen readers like JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver to navigate the website. This ensures that all content is accessible and properly announced by the screen reader. Testing includes checking landmarks, headings, and ARIA roles.

Example:

Using NVDA to navigate a webpage and ensuring that all images have descriptive alt text.

Keyboard Navigation Testing

Keyboard navigation testing ensures that all interactive elements can be accessed and used via the keyboard. This includes testing tab order, focus states, and ensuring no keyboard traps exist. Proper keyboard navigation is crucial for users who cannot use a mouse.

Example:

Tabbing through a form to ensure each input field receives focus in a logical order.

Color Contrast Testing

Color contrast testing verifies that text and interactive elements have sufficient contrast against their background. Tools like WebAIM's Color Contrast Checker can be used to ensure compliance with WCAG standards. Adequate contrast is essential for users with visual impairments.

Example:

Using the Color Contrast Checker to ensure that the text color on a button has sufficient contrast against the button's background color.

User Testing with Assistive Technologies

User testing with assistive technologies involves real users with disabilities testing the website. This provides valuable feedback on the usability and accessibility of the site. Testing can include users with various disabilities, such as visual, auditory, and motor impairments.

Example:

Conducting a usability study with users who use screen readers and voice recognition software to navigate the website.