WCAG Accessibility Audits & Compliance Evaluations

Evaluate Accessibility. Identify Barriers. Understand Compliance.

A WCAG accessibility audit evaluates how well a website or digital platform works for individuals with disabilities and whether it meets recognized accessibility standards.

For public institutions, accessibility audits help determine whether digital services align with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), the technical standard adopted under the ADA Title II Web and Mobile Accessibility Rule (§35.200).

IonicNet conducts accessibility evaluations to identify barriers that may prevent individuals with disabilities from accessing information or participating in services provided through digital platforms.

Why Accessibility Audits Matter

Accessibility audits help institutions understand their current level of accessibility and identify areas that may require attention.

  • Identify accessibility barriers affecting users with disabilities.
  • Evaluate websites and digital services against WCAG accessibility standards.
  • Support accessibility planning and improvement efforts.
  • Provide documentation used for accessibility oversight and procurement decisions.
  • Reduce the risk of accessibility complaints or investigations.

What an Accessibility Audit Evaluates

Accessibility evaluations examine how digital services function for users with different disabilities, including individuals who rely on assistive technologies such as screen readers or keyboard navigation.

Areas commonly evaluated include:

  • Keyboard navigation and focus management
  • Screen reader compatibility and semantic structure
  • Color contrast and text readability
  • Headings, landmarks, and document structure
  • Forms, buttons, and interactive elements
  • Images, media, captions, and alternative text
  • Mobile accessibility and responsive behavior
  • Accessible documents and downloadable content

Accessibility Testing Approach

Automated accessibility tools can detect some accessibility issues, but many barriers require manual evaluation and testing with assistive technologies.

IonicNet combines multiple evaluation methods, including:

  • Automated accessibility scanning tools
  • Manual code and interface review
  • Keyboard navigation testing
  • Screen reader testing
  • Usability evaluation for assistive technology users

Accessibility Audit Documentation

Accessibility evaluations are documented through detailed audit reports that explain findings and provide guidance for addressing identified barriers.

Audit reports typically include:

  • Accessibility issues organized by WCAG success criteria
  • Severity and impact of each barrier
  • Explanation of how each issue affects users
  • Guidance for addressing accessibility barriers
  • Recommendations for improving accessibility practices

Accessibility audits may also support the preparation of Accessibility Conformance Reports (ACRs), which are commonly used for procurement decisions and accessibility documentation.

Accessibility Evaluations for Public Institutions

IonicNet works with libraries and government agencies to evaluate websites and digital services against WCAG accessibility standards and ADA Title II requirements.

These evaluations help institutions understand accessibility risks, prioritize improvements, and make informed decisions about digital platforms that affect public access to information.

Next Steps After an Accessibility Audit

An accessibility audit provides the information institutions need to determine appropriate next steps. Depending on the findings, organizations may choose to address barriers internally, work with their existing technology vendors, or plan future improvements to digital services.

If your institution is evaluating the accessibility of its digital services, an accessibility audit can provide the clarity needed to make informed decisions.