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How Do You Create a VPAT That Meets WCAG 2.2 and Section 508 Requirements?

"Government buyers and enterprise clients ask for a VPAT. It happens with vendors of software, digital products, or any kind of online platforms.<br>A VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) now becomes a standard document used in the US to test your WCAG 2.2, Section 508 compliance.

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How Do You Create a VPAT That Meets WCAG 2.2 and Section 508 Requirements?

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  1. How Do You Create a VPAT That Meets WCAG 2.2 and Section 508 Requirements? Government buyers and enterprise clients ask for a VPAT. It happens with vendors of software, digital products, or any kind of online platforms. A VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) now becomes a standard document used in the US to test your WCAG 2.2, Section 508 compliance. Most teams struggle with the actual process of filling out the VPAT template. It should be accurate, credible, and audit-ready. This blog walks you through the process in a clear, simple, real-world way. What is a VPAT? A VPAT is not a sale pitch or a marketing document that will help you win a contract. But it is an important part of your RPF proposals. A VPAT is a technical, compliance-based accessibility report. Once completed, it becomes an ACR (Accessibility Conformance Report) that tells about your product accessibility. If your ACR shows VPAT mistakes or is overly “positive,” it can backfire during procurement reviews. You need to decide one thing to fill out an accurate VPAT: Are you documenting compliance or discovering it? Most companies end up doing both. Step 1: Choose the Correct VPAT Edition There are four VPAT editions. Pick the one your buyer or project requires:

  2. WCAG Edition – for websites, web apps, SaaS  Section 508 Edition – for federal procurement in the US  EU Edition – for European buyers  INT Edition – for products that need multiple standards VPAT WCAG 2.2 or VPAT Section 508 are important for organizations that are selling digital product in the US. Step 2: Full Accessibility Audit You cannot fill out a VPAT without testing the product first. A complete audit includes both automated and manual WCAG testing. Software scans are great for missing alt text and low contrast. Manual testing checks focus order, logic, usability in interactive components. In addition to this, your VPAT will be inaccurate or false if you miss screen reader testing, mobile accessibility testing and PDF document testing. Keep in mind, your VPAT is only as strong as your audit. Q1: Can you create a VPAT without a professional audit? Don’t do it because VPAT with errors can risk your contract. Most organizations use an accessibility expert because missing or incorrect statements can lead to rejections. Step 3: Start Filling Out the VPAT Template Now that you know what your product can and cannot do, you start completing each section. A VPAT requires you to rate your conformance level:  Supports  Partially Supports  Does Not Support  Not Applicable Important rule: Be honest even when the result isn’t perfect. Buyers prefer accurate VPATs over “Supports Everything” VPATs that clearly look unrealistic. Give a technical explanation for each criteria. You may find it too overwhelming so it is best to leave it to the VPAT writing professionals. Step 4: Review and Publish your ACR.

  3. Once the VPAT is filled, it converts into an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR). Review it and publish it after confirming the statements and explanations in the ACR. The document should be branded and formatted clearly. Most companies place the VPAT on their website, or share it privately with prospective buyers. You may also include it in RFP proposals Q2: Who needs a VPAT? Organizations need a VPAT Accessibility to prove their product meets WCAG and Section 508 accessibility standards. SaaS companies, software vendosr, ed-tech platforms, healthcare systems, financial tools, and any vendor selling to federal, state, or enterprise-level clients will need it. Once submitted, your VPAT becomes an official statement. Make sure it accurately represents your product. Does completing a VPAT mean you are fully compliant? Answer: Filling out VPAT requirements will only generate a report. It does not guarantee compliance. Compliance comes from the accessibility of the product itself not the document. Final Thoughts A VPAT that meets WCAG 2.2 and Section 508 requires real testing and honest reporting. The goal of a VPAT for SaaS company should not be to publish a “perfect” ACR. You should aim for an accurate and trustworthy one that helps buyers understand your product. If you want long-term accessibility improvements then consult the experts at ADACP. They are offering VPAT testing and ACR generating services at a competitive price. Read more:- https://www.adacompliancepros.com/

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