Accessibility Testing

Term from Accessibility Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Accessibility Testing is the process of checking websites, apps, and software to make sure they can be used by everyone, including people with disabilities. This includes making sure that people who use screen readers, can't use a mouse, or have other accessibility needs can still use digital products. It's like doing a thorough inspection of a building to ensure everyone can enter and use it, but for digital spaces. This type of testing has become increasingly important as more businesses and services move online, and as laws and regulations require digital content to be accessible to all users.

Examples in Resumes

Conducted Accessibility Testing on corporate website to ensure WCAG 2.1 compliance

Led Accessibility Testing and remediation efforts across multiple web applications

Performed Web Accessibility Testing for government agency websites

Managed Digital Accessibility Testing projects for Fortune 500 clients

Typical job title: "Accessibility Testers"

Also try searching for:

Accessibility Specialist Digital Accessibility Consultant Web Accessibility Tester Accessibility QA Engineer Accessibility Analyst Digital Inclusion Specialist Accessibility Compliance Tester

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement an accessibility testing strategy for a large organization?

Expected Answer: A senior tester should discuss creating testing policies, choosing testing tools, training team members, setting up regular testing schedules, and working with developers to fix issues. They should also mention staying current with accessibility laws and standards.

Q: How do you handle conflicts between accessibility requirements and design preferences?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to balance aesthetic design with accessibility needs, provide alternative solutions, and communicate effectively with designers and stakeholders about accessibility requirements and their importance.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What tools do you use for accessibility testing and why?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name several testing tools and explain their benefits, such as automated scanning tools and screen readers, while also emphasizing the importance of manual testing.

Q: How do you ensure a website is keyboard accessible?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to test navigation without a mouse, check for visible focus indicators, and ensure all interactive elements can be accessed and used with just a keyboard.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic principles of web accessibility?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic idea that websites need to be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users, including those with disabilities.

Q: What is WCAG and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is the main standard for making websites accessible, and briefly describe its importance for legal compliance and inclusive design.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of accessibility guidelines
  • Use of common testing tools
  • Manual testing basics
  • Understanding of screen readers

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced testing methodologies
  • Writing detailed accessibility reports
  • Knowledge of accessibility laws
  • Working with development teams

Senior (5+ years)

  • Creating accessibility testing strategies
  • Training and team leadership
  • Complex accessibility problem solving
  • Accessibility program management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic accessibility guidelines (WCAG)
  • No hands-on experience with accessibility testing tools
  • Lack of understanding about different types of disabilities
  • No experience writing accessibility reports or recommendations