Accessibility Conformance Report
Definition
An Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR) documents how well a digital product, such as a website or application, meets accessibility standards. It is usually based on the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT), a standardized form used to report conformance with standards like WCAG or Section 508. Once the VPAT is completed, it becomes the ACR.
Key Components
The ACR evaluates products against specific accessibility criteria and assigns levels of support: supports, partially supports, does not support, or not applicable. The report includes the version of the guidelines used for testing (e.g., WCAG 2.1 AA) and typically presents findings in a table format for clarity.
Legal and Regulatory Relevance
Federal agencies and contractors often require ACRs to meet Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. This U.S. regulation mandates accessible information and communication technology. An accurate ACR based on a VPAT helps demonstrate compliance and can reduce legal exposure.
Who Prepares It
ACRs can be prepared internally or by third-party accessibility consultants. External experts often add objectivity and deeper knowledge of standards, improving the report's quality. In either case, the evaluator should be trained in WCAG and related requirements.
Stakeholders and Uses
ACRs are used by buyers, developers, legal teams, and regulatory bodies. Prospective clients may request an ACR during procurement. Internal product teams use it as a baseline for accessibility improvements. The document also supports transparency and trust when shared publicly.
Hosting and Distribution
Organizations may include the ACR in compliance packages, customer proposals, or internal documentation. Some publish it online to show accessibility commitment. The format and visibility should align with business needs and stakeholder expectations.
Keeping It Updated
An ACR must be kept current. Changes to the product or relevant standards (such as updates to WCAG) require revisions. Outdated information can mislead stakeholders or fail to reflect legal compliance. Regular reviews ensure the ACR remains accurate and useful.