Increasing Software Accessibility

Accessibility is accomplished by designing software that accommodates the widest range of users. Accessibility can be compared to “curb cuts”. Curb cuts benefit people with strollers and baskets just as much as they benefit people with disabilities. The same applies to accessible software. An accessible software application is also a more usable application for all.

Note that Section 508 conformance and accessibility are not one in the same. The software application may conform to the applicable provisions of Subpart B of the 508 Standard, yet not be accessible. Subpart C, however, defines functional performance criteria that requires at least one mode of operation that does not require certain user functionality such as vision, hearing or fine motor control. The spirit of the law is to make information technology accessible to the widest audience. Whenever possible, you should go beyond Section 508 to provide a truly accessible application. Which means, developing a software application that is completely accessible instead of just conforming to the 12 software provisions.

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