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Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT)
VPAT stands for Voluntary Product Accessibility Template. It's a document that outlines how information and communication technology (ICT) products conform to accessibility standards, and the asset’s features and functionalities that support accessibility.
Additionally, Organizations can use VPATs to demonstrate the accessibility of their products to potential customers, promoting transparency and accountability in the marketplace.
VPAT version 2.5 is the latest version and consistent with the original VPAT, contains a column for recording conformance to each allocation of standard or guideline relevant to a product or service and includes more detailed explanation for each reported conformance level.
Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR)
An Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR) is a document that provides a summary of the level of accessibility compliance achieved by a digital asset, such as a website, application, or document. The ACR typically includes information on the accessibility features implemented, any barriers or issues identified, and the steps taken to address them.
The ACR provides a detailed assessment of an asset’s compliance with various accessibility criteria. It is closely related to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT). When a VPAT is completed, it will be considered an Accessibility Conformance Report. For public or commercial organizations, an ACR serves as a common format for documenting the accessibility of digital assets.
VPAT 2.5 508
Tailored specifically to meet the standards of the U.S. Federal 508 Rehabilitation Act.
Download VPAT 2.5 508 Sample Report
VPAT 2.5 EU
Aligned with the European EN 301 549 Accessibility requirements.
Download VPAT 2.5 EU Sample Report
VPAT 2.5 WCAG
Focuses solely on the WCAG guidelines and criteria.
Download VPAT 2.5 WCAG Sample Report
VPAT 2.5 INT
A comprehensive template incorporating all three above VPATs, offering a global perspective on accessibility status.
Download VPAT 2.5 INT Sample ReportAccessibility Statement
An accessibility statement shows your commitment to accessibility and continual enhancements. We provide an accessibility statement including accessibility goals, conformation standards; and contact information; so that if any user experiences any barrier, they can report a problem.
Security and Privacy
As a member of W3C and International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), we are applying the best industry practices and rigorous standards for both the confidentiality of your digital assets and the privacy of users. Additionally, the report is confidential and completely yours to use for any purpose like internal analysis, clients' benefits, or government that require periodic web accessibility reports.
FAQs
A VPAT is a document that outlines the level of accessibility of a product or service according to the Section 508 standards or other accessibility guidelines. It helps purchasers and users understand how well a product or service supports accessibility.
A VPAT typically includes sections that cover different aspects of accessibility, such as compliance with specific standards, support for assistive technologies, and details about how different features and functionalities address accessibility requirements. Here’s a VPAT report sample.
It is recommended that VPATs be updated whenever there are changes to the product or service that may impact its accessibility features. This could include updates, new releases, or changes to the product or digital assets' features.
A VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) report is typically needed by government agencies, educational institutions, and other organizations that require information about the accessibility compliance of a product or digital asset.
The version of the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) one should use depends on the applicable accessibility standards and regulations. Here are some general guidelines:
- Check Relevant Standards
- Review Procurement Requirements
- Consider Industry Best Practices
- Refer to Vendor Documentation
- International Considerations
- Check for Updates
- Consult Accessibility Experts
Remember that VPAT is a tool to communicate the accessibility features of a product or service. Using the most up-to-date version and aligning with relevant standards ensures that your documentation accurately reflects the accessibility status of your offering.
There is no specific duration for the validity of a Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT). It is advisable to update the VPAT whenever there are changes to the product or service that may impact its accessibility features, such as updates, new releases, or modifications to functionality.
After the website is remediated, you should request a website accessibility remediated agency to provide it. Alternatively one would get the VPAT report done along with the website ADA audit report to ensure the compliance status.
Yes. Please reach out at [email protected].
VPAT is important because it provides transparency about the accessibility features of a product or service. It allows buyers to make informed decisions and helps organizations meet legal and regulatory requirements related to accessibility.
Yes, a product or a digital asset can have a VPAT even if it is not fully accessible. The VPAT is a disclosure of the product's accessibility features, and it can indicate areas where improvements are needed.
Organizations can use VPATs to evaluate the accessibility of products or services during the procurement process. By reviewing VPATs, they can make more informed decisions and ensure that the products or services they choose meet their accessibility requirements.
VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) compliance is often unavoidable for companies that provide products or services to government agencies or institutions that receive federal funding. Government contracts and procurement processes frequently require VPATs to ensure that the purchased products or services adhere to accessibility standards, promoting inclusivity for users with disabilities. Therefore, companies aiming to engage with government clients or entities subject to accessibility regulations should prioritize VPAT compliance.
No, a Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) is not mandatory in an absolute sense. The term "voluntary" in VPAT indicates that it is not a requirement by law, but it is often used voluntarily by companies, especially when dealing with government contracts or demonstrating a commitment to accessibility standards.
In certain cases, government agencies may require vendors to provide VPATs as part of the procurement process to assess the accessibility of information and communication technology (ICT) products or services. While not mandatory for all businesses, creating and providing VPATs can be beneficial for demonstrating accessibility compliance and inclusivity.
Yes, please find the following sample VPAT reports:
The VPAT report turnaround time would depend on the number of pages. The starting price of VPAT is $2,500 and the maximum can go beyond $25,000.