The VPAT, or voluntary accessibility statement, is a document designed to demonstrate the accessibility of digital products and services in accordance with the guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What is VPAT and what is it for?
The VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) is a template that helps organizations document the level of accessibility of their digital products. Initially created to comply with Section 508 of the American Rehabilitation Act, VPAT has become a standard that facilitates compliance with ADA and other digital accessibility regulations.
Specifically, the VPAT is adjusted to the guidelines of the ADA regulations, so it mainly follows the methodology imposed by the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).
Additionally, the VPAT is usually completed to generate the ACR (Accessibility Conformance Report), also called the accessibility conformance report, a final report that documents the extent to which the product meets the accessibility criteria.
Why is VPAT important in ADA compliance?
There are several reasons why it is important to complete the VPAT:
- Commitment. By documenting the accessibility of a product or service through a VPAT, organizations demonstrate their commitment to digital inclusion.
- Eliminates legal barriers. Minimizes legal risks associated with non-compliance with ADA regulations, WCAG, etc.
- Identify areas for improvement. A well-completed VPAT helps identify areas for improvement in accessibility, facilitating future adaptations and certifications.
- Improves positioning. By justifying the accessibility of your product, it will have greater visibility and improve its positioning.
How to complete a VPAT to comply with ADA regulations
Completing a VPAT can be a complex process, but following a series of steps can ensure that the final document is correctly completed to the necessary standards:
- Review of accessibility requirements: Understand the ADA and Section 508 criteria that apply to the product to understand its current compliance.
- Evaluation of each accessibility criterion: Subsequently, each accessibility criterion must be carefully evaluated and documented to verify the level of conformity.
- Detailed documentation: Note in the VPAT the accessibility aspects that the product meets or does not meet, and provide detailed explanations.
- Third-party validation and review: Many organizations opt for external validation to ensure the accuracy and validity of the VPAT, a highly recommended option to avoid incomplete or poorly completed documents.
Best practices for documentation and certification
To maximize the clarity and effectiveness of the VPAT, it is recommended:
- Include clear examples of accessibility.
- Cite specific ADA standards that the product meets.
- Update the VPAT regularly to reflect improvements in accessibility.
Conclusion
The VPAT is an essential tool for any organization seeking to comply with the ADA and ensure its products are accessible.
Following a detailed methodology when completing the VPAT ensures not only legal compliance, but also the effective inclusion of people with disabilities in the digital environment.
Do you want to know more about the ADA regulations? Visit our Complete Guide.
