What Is Voluntary Product Accessibility Template? Top Things You Should Know About It

The voluntary product accessibility template (VPAT) is a document that provides an evaluation of how accessible a given product is for people with disabilities. VPATs are often used by federal, state, and local government agencies as well as organizations when assessing whether products meet their own specific accessibility requirements. In this article, we will discuss what VPATs are and the top things you should know about them. 

1. VPATs Define Accessibility Standards

The primary purpose of a VPAT is to indicate how well a product meets accessibility standards and guidelines. This makes it easier for organizations and individuals to identify which products are more accessible than others before they commit to purchasing them. Also, a VPAT report will typically list detailed information on the product’s accessibility features and how they compare to a given set of standards. It is important to note that a VPAT does not guarantee accessibility, but provides a useful tool for comparing products. By using a VPAT, organizations, and individuals can make more informed decisions about which products are better suited for their accessibility needs. 

2. VPATs Can Be Used in Different Ways

VPATs can be used to assess the accessibility of both existing and new products. For example, an organization that needs to purchase new software may use a VPAT to understand if the product complies with all applicable accessibility standards. Similarly, an existing product can also be assessed using a VPAT, allowing companies and organizations to ensure their services remain compliant with any changes in regulations or new technology advancements over time.

3. VPATs Are Not Mandatory 

VPATs are not mandatory documents, and they do not replace any existing accessibility regulations or requirements. However, having a VPAT in place can help organizations demonstrate compliance with applicable laws and standards. Additionally, some countries or regions may have specific requirements for the use of VPATs when procuring products and services. It is important to check with the relevant authorities in your jurisdiction if there are any specific requirements. 

4. VPATs Must Be Updated

To ensure that a VPAT remains accurate, it is important to regularly update the document with any changes in technology or accessibility standards. This can involve revising the information on existing products, as well as including details of new products and services. It is also important to note that organizations must ensure they have all the necessary evidence to support their VPAT claims. Some companies may require additional research or further testing to prove that their products are accessible. The VPAT should also be updated to reflect any changes that happen over time. 

5. VPATs Require Expertise

Creating a comprehensive and accurate VPAT report is not an easy task. It requires expertise in both accessibility standards and the product itself, which means that it often needs to be written by experienced professionals. Additionally, organizations must ensure they have access to all the necessary documentation and evidence required for the VPAT before submitting it. An expert can help to ensure that all necessary information is included and accurate. 

6. VPATs Are an Important Tool for Accessibility

Overall, voluntary product accessibility templates are a useful tool for assessing the accessibility of products. By understanding what a VPAT is and how it can be used, organizations can ensure they comply with applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, having a comprehensive VPAT document in place makes it easier to identify where changes may need to be made to bring products into line with current standards. Ultimately, this will enable businesses and organizations to create more accessible services for all users.

Is it hard to find experienced professionals to create a VPAT? 

It can be difficult to find experienced professionals to create an accurate and comprehensive VPAT, particularly if the product or services are not well-known. It is important to research potential contractors carefully and ensure they have the necessary expertise and knowledge in both accessibility standards and the product itself. Additionally, organizations may want to consider working with professional bodies or accreditation schemes that specialize in assessing products for accessibility compliance. This will help to ensure that any contractor hired has the necessary experience and qualifications needed for completing a VPAT accurately. 

As we saw, VPATs are a critical tool for understanding and ensuring product accessibility. It is important to remember that creating a comprehensive and accurate VPAT requires both expertise and regular updates, as well as access to all the necessary evidence in order to make valid claims. With these considerations in mind, organizations can use VPATs as an important part of their overall approach to building accessible products. So, if you are looking to ensure your products and services are accessible to all users, a VPAT may be the perfect tool for you.