We are committed to ensuring everyone’s access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The university developed a Digital Accessibility of Communications and Information Technology policy and a procedure for evaluating the accessibility of ICT in addition to the UM System’s Information Technology and Telecommunications Purchases. Purchased ICT should adhere to the state and federal accessibility laws and standards. For more information, visit Accessibility Laws & Policies.
What is Information and Communication Technology (ICT)?
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, as revised in 2017, defines information and communication technology (ICT) as ‘information technology and other equipment, systems, technologies, or processes for which the principal function is the creation, manipulation, storage, display, receipt, or transmission of electronic data, information, and any associated content.’ Examples relevant to digital accessibility include software, applications, websites, videos, and electronic documents.
To promote accessibility and inclusivity, the revised Section 508 incorporates the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level A and AA standards, ensuring that digital content is accessible to individuals with disabilities and fostering an equitable experience for all users.
Purchaser Considerations
All decision-makers involved in acquiring technology solutions at MU must prioritize accessibility. When evaluating these solutions, it is crucial to consider accessibility, as this can streamline the compliance process.
Ensuring equal access to the vendor is paramount when evaluating the accessibility of third-party products before purchase. The baseline questions offered below provide a starting point for engaging vendors in discussions, allowing you to gather essential information on their products’ accessibility features and compliance standards.
- Can you demonstrate how to use your product without a mouse?
- Who assesses your products for accessibility? (Internal, third-party, etc.)
- Have any people with disabilities tested your product?
- Does your product comply with Section 508 (e.g., Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 level AA or higher)?
- Can you provide a product Accessibility Conformance Report, which is a completed Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT)?
- Accessibility Conformance Reports are completed VPATs that help buyers of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) understand a product’s level of accessibility compliance, compare compliance with similar products, and make informed decisions before purchasing a product.
- Do you have a designated accessibility representative to address issues or questions about accessibility issues?
- How does your company integrate accessibility into the design and development of your products?
- Do you have a resolution process for accessibility issues?
- How often are your products assessed for accessibility compliance?
- Do you have an Accessibility Roadmap for your products that do not meet compliance?
If you have questions or need help with this process, please reach out to IT Compliance at itcompliance@missouri.edu.
IT Compliance
The Division of IT employs IT Compliance Guidelines to assess technology, including accessibility compliance. Suppliers, vendors, and contractors must provide accessible ICT in accordance with established accessibility standards. They may be requested to furnish the following accessibility documentation, which could subsequently be incorporated into the final legal agreement.
What is a Voluntary Product Accessibility Template® (VPAT)?
A VPAT is a document outlining the compliance of information and communication technology products, including software, hardware, electronic content, and support documentation, with the Revised 508 Standards for IT accessibility. A completed VPAT is called an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR). Someone familiar with digital accessibility within your company, such as an accessibility specialist or a reputable third-party accessibility auditor, should fill out the VPAT. Download the 508 VPAT from the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) website. The General Services Administration site provides instructions on creating an Accessibility Conformance Report, and ITI offers VPAT Training Modules on its website. An accessibility statement does not replace our requirement for an ACR (or completed VPAT).
What is an Accessibility Roadmap?
An accessibility roadmap outlines a vendor’s plan for resolving accessibility issues in alignment with relevant guidelines and standards. Vendors should detail how and when their product will become fully accessible or explain their approach to addressing accessibility in future updates. This demonstrates the vendor’s commitment to enhancing the product’s accessibility. Completing a Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) helps identify accessibility issues and develop an accessibility roadmap.
If you have questions or need help with this process, please reach out to IT Compliance at itcompliance@missouri.edu.