Accessibility testing: When automation is sufficient - and when it is not.

Do you think a purely automated accessibility check is enough? Then you are overlooking the really tricky problems. Because while automated scans can uncover basic accessibility problems, they quickly reach their limits when it comes to complex UX issues.

Only human testers with their methodology, intuition and experience and equipped with the appropriate specialist knowledge can identify the stumbling blocks that determine the weal and woe of the user experience.

Tools inherently cover standards; human expertise puts your accessibility testing on the right track, because: Just because a tool gives you a high score in the accessibility category does not mean that your web application meets minimum legal standards.

We show you how to combine the best of both worlds, how to intelligently link automated scans and manual tests in order to efficiently determine the correct current status or support development .

Manual vs. automated accessibility tests

A manual accessibility test checks websites, apps or digital products through direct interaction and evaluates the system behavior. This process requires a team of technical experts who actively use the product. This includes the use of assistive technologies, keyboard navigation and other methods to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.

Quality criteria such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and a look at the legal requirements such as the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) as the German implementation of the European Accessibility Act (EAA) are also necessary. You can read more about this here.

Fast scans, limited depth: Automated accessibility tests

Test automation tools for accessibility tests automatically check the code of websites to identify semantic errors in the HTML structure and technical aspects such as keyboard navigation. They also test the content for missing alternative texts, insufficient contrast ratios or logical heading structures.

Although UX testing relies heavily on manual testing, these tools also enable a basic accessibility assessment and help to make digital content more accessible for people with disabilities.

Although the quality of these solutions is improving and covering more than just the low-hanging fruit

These tools help to detect violations of accessibility standards and legal requirements more quickly than traditional manual testing.

Strengths and weaknesses of manual and automated accessibility tests

How to combine automation and manual tests?

Automated tests are ideal for initial overview scans, identifying incorrect heading structures or improper use of ARIA(Accessible Rich Internet Applications). Manual testing is ideal, for example, for testing keyboard navigation, screen reader experience or testing interactive elements and usability.

A thoughtful combination of both approaches can lead to a comprehensive and accurate evaluation.

It should be noted that although automated testing tools help to quickly identify defects, they cannot replace the human ability to detect errors, critical thinking and the experience of testers.

Manual and human-supervised automated testing procedures remain crucial to assess the usability and actual accessibility of software.

How to start?

Determine your accessibility awareness quotient

• Step 1: Check whether your product (website or application) meets the basic accessibility criteria.
• Step 2: Understand and list the problem areas.
• Step 3: Determine the current Accessibility Awareness Quotient of your product.

Where to start?

Identify critical business areas

• Step 1: Analyze and prioritize the critical business processes of your product.
• Step 2: Determine the required coverage.
• Step 3: Collaborate with experts and define the timeframe.

When to start?

NOW!

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) will come into force on June 28, 2025 through the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG). This means that you could be exposed to regulatory risk if you don't act now.

For an initial indication, see also: Self-audit on the Accessibility Enhancement Act

Don't worry - TestSolutions will be happy to advise you individually and without obligation on how we can help you.

We have the right mix of expertise and experience to meet your requirements.

Get in touch with us.

Note: This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please contact a qualified lawyer to resolve specific legal issues. No liability is assumed for the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of the information provided.