Ensuring Accessibility
In order to provide accessible content, it is important to ask vendors how to explain how their products are accessible, test for accessibility, and request accessibility assurances when making purchases.
Asking About Accessibility
It is essential to ask vendors the following questions:
- Does the vendor have references which can speak to the accessibility of their product(s)?
- Is the vendor's team experienced in coding for accessibility?
- What coding of interface standards are followed by the vendor?
- Does the vendor do testing with users with disabilities? Can the vendor provide explain the process and identify the range of disabilities and access technologies tested?
- Do the vendor and their company have goals and milestones set when it comes to accessibility?
- Has the vendor tested or developed their mobile apps with accessibility in mind?
- Can the vendor guarantee that changes will be made to their products in the name of accessibility as the need for said changes arises?
- Would the vendor's company indemnify SUNY Geneseo against legal action related to accessibility?
For audio/visual-system purchases:
- Does the vendor's system meet physical access requirements for individuals using wheelchairs? Inquire after the height, depth, and reach measurements of the vendor's a/v system.
- Does the system provide adjustable lecterns and other forms of work surfaces?
- Does the vendor's product possess an assistive listening system for individuals with hearing impairments?