Are VPATs for Websites?
VPATs (Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates) aren’t for websites, generally. However, if the website acts as a product or services or is a part of a product or service, then the website (or web pages) should be evaluated and accounted for in the ACR (Accessibility Conformance Report).
Note: An ACR is a filled in and completed VPAT.
What VPATs Are Used For
VPATs help procurement agents evaluate the accessibility ICT (Information and Communication Technology) products and services during procurement.
Specific to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, U.S. federal agencies must ensure all technology they purchase meets accessibility standards. The VPAT provides a standardized way for vendors to document how their products comply with these requirements.
When the government buys software, hardware, or technology services, they need detailed conformance information. That’s where VPATs come into play — they provide an accounting of the ICT’s accessibility that procurement officers can evaluate.
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Of course, there are many other buyers who require ACRs, but Section 508 nicely illustrates that VPATs are intended for ICT products and services — which can include electronic content.
Better Alternatives for Website Accessibility
Instead of using a VPAT for a website, consider these more appropriate options:
Accessibility audit reports provide a report that states how well your website conforms with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
Conformance statements provide documentation of full conformance for a given version and conformance level of WCAG.
Third-party certifications from reputable provider are similar to conformance statements and should be available upon your website’s full conformance.
Conclusion
It’s best to use documentation that is aligned with its intended purpose. VPATs aren’t for traditional websites, they’re for ICT products and services.
If you have any questions on accessibility services, you can reach me at Accessible.org.
