We’re OK, we have a plugin….
Some plugins and overlays promise a ‘one time’ solution to website accessibility issues, but sadly this just isn’t enough to ensure you are compliant with the ADA regulations. Our audits have even found that some accessibility solutions’ websites are not compliant!
While it would be great if it was as easy as simply installing a plugin or adding one piece of code, unfortunately this just isn’t the case. Compliance needs to be managed on an ongoing basis, with the issue addressed at the root causes – staff training to ensure that content is created in a compliant manner, and management of your digital supply chain to ensure that you’re on top of the services your website uses.
In fact, some plugins are so well known as being non-compliant that lawyers are deliberately seeking out websites that use them in their search for potential litigation targets.
Plugins do not make you ADA compliant and could get you sued
They may have aggressive marketing and promises of compliance but based on what has been written about them (see the articles below for more detail), you should treat them with caution and ensure you really are compliant by addressing the root causes. Some of those to be wary of include:
Should I use an accessibility overlay?
Due to their technical, social, and moral issues, The A11Y Project does not recommend using permanent plugins. We view these kinds of products as actively harmful, and a step backwards for digital accessibility efforts.
https://www.a11yproject.com/posts/2021-03-08-should-i-use-an-accessibility-overlay/
At AAAtraq, we help you to holistically manage website compliance through a managed pathway, with milestones and timescales specific to the issues your website faces. This process, combined with increasing cost coverage as you progress, allows you to be confident that the risk of litigation is being mitigated.
| % OF PAGES FAILING | |
|---|---|
| A compliance | 98% |
| AA compliance | 8% |
| PDF compliance | 90% |
