Demystifying the VPAT and Accessibility Conformance Report: A Guide for Businesses

In today's digital-first world, accessibility isn't just a compliance checkbox; it’s a cornerstone of inclusive user experiences. One way organizations communicate critical accessibility compliance is an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR), commonly completed by using the VPAT—Voluntary Product Accessibility Template. But what is an ACR, what is a VPAT, how do you fill one out, and why does it matter? Let’s break it down in plain terms.

What is the ACR, and what is A VPAT?

“The ITI Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (ITI VPAT®) is a free template that translates accessibility requirements and standards (e.g., in Section 508 and other legal frameworks) into actionable testing criteria for products and services,” provided by the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI). When completed, the resulting document is called an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR). The ACR is the leading  report used to document how accessible your digital product—such as software, websites, or hardware—is to people with disabilities. This document is pivotal in demonstrating compliance with accessibility standards like Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), and EN 301 549.

For businesses aiming to work with government agencies or organizations prioritizing accessibility, the ACR serves as a critical credential. It’s essentially your accessibility report card, offering transparency about your product's strengths and areas for improvement.

How to Fill Out a VPAT

Completing a VPAT can seem daunting, but with the right process, it’s manageable. Here are the steps:

1. Download the VPAT: You can find the latest version of the VPAT from the Information Technology Industry Council (ITIC) website. Be sure to select the correct format based on your needs- the 4 available versions are WCAG (2.0, 2.1, 2.2), 508 (US Section 508, EU (EN 301 549), or INT (incorporating all of the above).
   
   
2. Evaluate Your Product: Conduct a thorough accessibility audit of your product using tools and manual testing. Identify which accessibility guidelines your product meets and where it falls short.
   
   
3. Document Findings: The VPAT includes sections for each guideline or standard. Provide clear, concise information about whether your product fully supports, partially supports, or does not support each criterion.
   
   
4. Write Supporting Details: For every "partially supports" or "does not support" answer, include a detailed explanation. Be transparent—honesty builds trust with your users and potential partners.
   
   
5. Get Expert Review: Accessibility is complex, and even small errors can have significant implications. Consider working with an agency or consultant specializing in accessibility  to review your report for accuracy and completeness.
   
   

How is an ACR Used?

Organizations use ACRs in various ways:

• Procurement Decisions: Government agencies and businesses often require an ACR when evaluating potential vendors to ensure products meet accessibility requirements.
• Internal Accessibility Evaluation: An ACR helps teams identify gaps and prioritize accessibility improvements.
• Marketing and Trust-Building: A well-documented ACR demonstrates your commitment to inclusivity, building credibility with customers and stakeholders.

Alternatives to an ACR

While an ACR is a standard report for accessibility, it’s not required in all scenarios and there are other ways to communicate your product’s accessibility. Other options, when an ACR is not required, include:

• Accessibility Statements: A simpler, minimal alternative, these highlight key accessibility features and your commitment to improvement.
• Third-Party Reports: Independent audits and certifications can supplement or replace an ACR in certain contexts.

Why Accessibility Matters

Accessibility is more than compliance; it’s about empowering all users. By embracing reporting methods like the VPAT and striving for continuous improvement, your organization not only meets legal requirements but also fosters loyalty and inclusivity.

At Engine Room Technology Company, we’re passionate about building tech that’s innovative and accessible. Whether you’re navigating your first ACR or looking to enhance your digital accessibility strategy, we’re here to help. Let’s make accessibility a shared priority.