Testing Methodology
Learn how we evaluate university websites for accessibility compliance using industry-leading standards and automated testing tools.
How We Test Accessibility
Our automated testing system evaluates university websites against WCAG 2.1 AA standards using industry-leading accessibility testing tools.
WCAG 2.1 AA Testing
Comprehensive testing against Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 Level AA, the gold standard for web accessibility compliance.
Screen Reader Simulation
Advanced testing that simulates how screen readers and other assistive technologies interact with university websites.
Performance Impact
Analysis of how accessibility features affect website performance, ensuring inclusive design doesn't compromise user experience.
Detailed Testing Process
1. Automated Scanning
Our system performs comprehensive automated scans of university websites using multiple accessibility testing engines. We analyze key pages including homepages, admissions pages, student portals, and academic department pages.
- Homepage and main navigation accessibility
- Form accessibility and keyboard navigation
- Image alt text and media accessibility
- Color contrast and visual accessibility
- Screen reader compatibility
2. WCAG 2.1 AA Compliance
We test against the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA, which is the international standard for web accessibility and is required by many accessibility laws including the ADA.
Perceivable
Information must be presentable in ways users can perceive
Operable
Interface components must be operable by all users
Understandable
Information and UI operation must be understandable
Robust
Content must be robust enough for various assistive technologies
3. Scoring Methodology
Our accessibility scores are calculated based on the number and severity of accessibility issues found during testing. Scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better accessibility.
4. Continuous Monitoring
We regularly rescan university websites to track improvements and identify new accessibility issues. This allows us to provide up-to-date accessibility scores and track progress over time.
- Monthly rescans of all university websites
- Immediate rescans when significant changes are detected
- Historical tracking of accessibility improvements
- Trend analysis and reporting
Tools and Technology
We use industry-leading accessibility testing tools and technologies to ensure comprehensive and accurate assessments.
Automated Testing Engines
Multiple accessibility testing engines including axe-core, WAVE, and custom validation rules to ensure comprehensive coverage of accessibility issues.
Screen Reader Testing
Automated simulation of popular screen readers including NVDA, JAWS, and VoiceOver to test real-world accessibility for users with visual impairments.
Performance Analysis
Lighthouse and custom performance testing to ensure accessibility features don't negatively impact website speed and user experience.
Color Contrast Analysis
Comprehensive color contrast testing to ensure text and interactive elements meet WCAG AA standards for users with visual impairments.
Keyboard Navigation
Automated testing of keyboard navigation and focus management to ensure websites are fully accessible to users who cannot use a mouse.
Mobile Accessibility
Testing across multiple devices and screen sizes to ensure accessibility features work properly on mobile devices and tablets.