What is VPAT in accessibility?

What is VPAT in Accessibility?

VPAT, short for Voluntary Product Accessibility Template, is a vital tool used in the realm of accessibility. It serves as a standardized document for evaluating the accessibility of various information and communication technology (ICT) products, including software and hardware.

Assessing Accessibility

VPAT documents provide a detailed assessment of how a particular product conforms to established accessibility standards and guidelines. These standards often include the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and other relevant criteria. The assessment covers various aspects of accessibility, such as usability with assistive technologies, keyboard navigation, and content readability.

Facilitating Informed Choices

One of the key purposes of a VPAT is to make accessibility information easily accessible to organizations and individuals. When considering the purchase or use of ICT products, having a VPAT enables informed decisions about the product's accessibility. It helps in ensuring that the chosen product aligns with the accessibility requirements of users, including those with disabilities.

VPAT Examples

Here are a few examples of VPAT categories:

• Software VPAT: Focuses on the accessibility of software applications, including operating systems, productivity tools, and more.
• Hardware VPAT: Assesses the accessibility of hardware devices such as computers, mobile devices, and peripherals.
• Web VPAT: Evaluates the accessibility of websites and web applications, ensuring that they are usable by individuals with disabilities.

Using This Template

The 'Accessibility in Mobile, Web, and Software Development' template provides valuable insights into embedding accessibility into digital products. However, for assessing the accessibility of specific ICT products, organizations can utilize VPAT documents to gain a comprehensive understanding of their conformance to accessibility standards.