What is a VPAT?
A Voluntary Product Accessibility Template or VPAT is the starting point of proving your product is accessible. It is a form that vendors fill out to show how their software, hardware, website or application stacks up against key standards, such as:
- Section 508 (U.S. government standard)
- WCAG 2.1 and 2.2 (international web accessibility guidelines)
- EN 301 549 (European accessibility requirement)
However, VPAT by itself is not the finished product. A completed VPAT turns into an ACR, or Accessibility Conformance Report. This is what buyers actually want to see before making a purchase. If your goal is landing government or enterprise contracts, stopping at the VPAT stage can cost you deals.
That is why companies work with VPAT assessment experts like ADACP. We deliver buyer-ready ACRs that check all the boxes and speed up your sales cycle.
Want a full guide on what is VPAT? Check our blog: [What is the Difference Between VPAT and an Accessibility Conformance Report ACR?]
Why do buyers need a VPAT ACR?
Large organizations, whether government, healthcare, or education, need proof that the products they purchase are accessible for every user. Accessibility has become a legal and ethical requirement for such organizations.
What are the benefits of a professionally written VPAT?
- A well-prepared VPAT shows that you have tested your product against accessibility standards.
- VPAT proves transparency about where your product complies and where it doesn’t.
- Accurately filled VPAT ACR reduces risk for buyers because you are giving them confidence in your product.
In short, a good VPAT means more trust and faster deals.
What are the benefits of a VPAT? To explore this in detail, read our related guide: Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR): What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Create One
How to Do a VPAT (Step-by-step)
You need only three things to complete a VPAT:
- Knowledge and understanding of VPAT standards – Know the criteria from WCAG, Section 508, or EN 301 549.
- Tools for VPAT compliance testing of your product – Use manual testing, automated tools, and assistive technology. We have a detailed guide written on compliance testing, check it out here.
- Documenting Results – Filling in the VPAT template with clear evidence of compliance.
| Step | What You Do | Common Pitfalls |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Choose the correct VPAT version | Select WCAG, 508, EU, or INT version | Using the wrong version slows approvals |
| 2. Audit product | Test manually + with tools | Only using automated scans (not enough) |
| 3. Document conformance | Fill in the template with clear notes | Using vague “supports” without proof |
| 4. Review accuracy | Peer or third-party check | Missing errors that cause buyer delays |