The internet is accessible to all, so there shouldn’t be anyone excluded. Web accessibility refers to making sites compliant by removing any barriers for those with disabilities. Allowing people to navigate the web is important regardless of them having auditory issues, sight problems, physical conditions, or issues with cognition. The majority of websites contain elements in their original format that would prevent someone with disabilities from using their site. Fortunately, numerous tools are working tirelessly to help web developers ensure their site is compliant with web accessibility laws.
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accessiBe
The first entry on the list is accessiBe, which uses AI technology to scan the web and ensure websites are ADA and WCAG compliant at all times. Several users have claimed that the WordPress plugin was easy to set up, starts working in no time, and offers peace of mind that websites are accessible to the entire spectrum of disabled users. Further, their customer service is boasted to be flawless, offering lawsuit protection in the event of frivolous action.
DYNO Mapper
This is an accessibility tracker that is capable of scanning any website on the internet to provide extensive data on how accessible they are. With the data in hand, developers can see where their vulnerabilities are and make adjustments accordingly. Their algorithm compares entire websites against current compliance laws and compiles a report that shows users any known, likely and potential problems.
Elsevier’s Accessibility Checker
Checking content created on CKEditor, this software allows users to search content and find out accessibility information. Created by Elsevier, the Accessibility Checker provides web developers with a user-friendly interface and thorough guidelines on how to make web content accessible. Once the software has flagged issues, it reportedly allows changes to be made on the spot.
Achecker
Released in September 2008, this accessibility checker covers major international compliance laws including WCAG 2.0, W3C Guidelines, U.S federal procurement standard, BITV Italian legislation, Stanca Act, and the German Government standards. Users claim that what makes this an appealing tool is that on top of the included guidelines, developers can create custom accessibility guidelines. Additionally, Achecker is open-source, web-based, and requires no lengthy installations.
AXE Chrome Plugin
As the name suggests, this plugin works from within the Google Chrome developer tools. The tool works to generate web accessibility reports, which inform developers and help them improve their website’s accessibility. This software is a basic web plugin that is free to access. Users of other browsers are unfortunately unable to use this plugin, as it is only compatible with Chrome.
Ensuring that websites are compliant with the numerous accessibility guidelines is an essential job for any business with customer-facing websites. Without using analytical tools like the ones outlined above, the task would be an extremely strenuous undertaking. There is free software offering entry-level website checks to paid services that actively alter a website’s code – no matter what option web developers choose, the most important thing is that anybody can access the internet.
