AUL Very Open House: Notes from July 17, 2018

Topic: A Very Open House - inviting all universities

  • First open conversation advertised via the ITACCESS list, inviting all universities to discuss 4 issues below:
  • How do we perform manual real-user accessibility testing?
    • The Accessibility and Usability Lab (AUL) creates a script for screen reader/low vision testers and test admins to follow in order to test user comprehension and utilization of a website or an application.
    • Document the testing experience and write a detailed report for service owner and/or vendor.
    • Offer a post-test demo for service owners.
  • How do we ensure that our centrally supported web platforms and CMSs are accessible?
    • Point of purchase of accessibility reviews (documentation and quick hands-on reviews)
    • Departmental requests for in-depth testing of departmental applications and websites.
    • Ongoing campus-wide conversations and training regarding digital accessibility.
  • How do we interact with software vendors?
    • Vendors are asked to provide initial accessibility documentation, accessibility compliance roadmaps or remediation plans as well as information regarding upcoming software releases.
    • The AUL asks service owners to establish the connection between the AUL and the vendor AND that the service owner is always present in meetings with vendors.
  • What opportunities are there for collaborations between universities? Questions for open discussion?
    • What steps do you take to create a shared responsibility across your University?
    •  How do you get support from senior leadership?
    •  Do you use EEAAPs (equally effecitve alternate access plans)?
    • If a product is approved, without full accessibility and a student must use it, how is that handled? 
    •  Who oversees the procurement process and makes final decisions for purchase?
  • Resources and projects discussed