What is an Accessibility Audit?
An accessibility audit is a systematic evaluation process that examines websites, mobile applications, or digital platforms to identify accessibility barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully accessing and using the content. This comprehensive review combines both automated testing tools and manual verification methods to assess compliance with established accessibility standards.
For example, an accessibility audit might reveal that images lack alternative text descriptions, form fields are missing proper labels, or keyboard navigation doesn't work correctly - all critical issues that would prevent screen reader users from accessing content effectively.
Importance in Digital Accessibility
Accessibility audits play a crucial role in ensuring digital inclusion and legal compliance. They help organizations meet requirements outlined in:
- WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) - The international standard for web accessibility, with levels A, AA, and AAA compliance
- ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) - US federal law requiring accessible digital services
- BFSG (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz) - Germany's accessibility strengthening act for digital services
- EN 301 549 - European accessibility standard for ICT products and services
Regular accessibility audits ensure that digital platforms remain inclusive as they evolve, preventing discrimination and expanding market reach to include the 15% of the global population living with disabilities.
Practical Implementation and Use Cases
Accessibility audits should be integrated throughout the development lifecycle:
Web Development
- Pre-launch audits to identify issues before going live
- Quarterly reviews of existing websites to maintain compliance
- Post-redesign evaluations to ensure accessibility wasn't compromised
UI/UX Design
- Design system audits to ensure accessible color contrast and typography
- User flow testing with assistive technologies
- Prototype validation before development begins
CMS Platforms
- Template and theme accessibility reviews
- Content editor training based on audit findings
- Plugin and extension compatibility assessments
Effective audits typically use a combination of automated tools (like axe, WAVE, or Lighthouse) and manual testing with actual assistive technologies such as screen readers, voice recognition software, and keyboard-only navigation.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Many organizations fall into these accessibility audit pitfalls:
- Relying solely on automated tools - While efficient, automated testing only catches about 25-30% of accessibility issues
- One-time audit mentality - Accessibility requires ongoing monitoring, not just single assessments
- Focusing only on technical compliance - True accessibility requires testing with real users who have disabilities
- Ignoring mobile accessibility - Many audits overlook mobile-specific accessibility requirements
- Treating audits as final steps - Accessibility should be evaluated throughout the design and development process
Another common misconception is that passing automated accessibility tests guarantees full WCAG compliance. Manual testing and user feedback remain essential components of comprehensive accessibility audits.
Best Practices and Key Takeaways
To maximize the effectiveness of your accessibility audits:
- Combine automated scanning tools with manual testing using assistive technologies
- Include users with disabilities in your testing process whenever possible
- Document findings with clear severity levels and remediation steps
- Establish regular audit schedules rather than one-off assessments
- Train development teams on common accessibility issues discovered through audits
- Create accessible design systems and component libraries based on audit insights
Remember that accessibility audits are not just about legal compliance - they're investments in creating better user experiences for everyone. A well-executed audit provides a roadmap for building more inclusive digital products that expand your audience and demonstrate your commitment to digital inclusion.