Supporting Audits
The European Union defines “digital accessibility” as compliance with European Standard (EN) 301 549. Tests conducted throughout the development process verify these requirements, which also include the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). At the same time, however, the goal of these tests is not to issue a declaration of conformity “right away,” but rather to identify areas that still need work. Thus, this type of audit serves as a tool for improvement. Accordingly, the test is intended solely for your internal use.
For each test step that is not met, I provide practical remediation guidance and point to specific corrective approaches in the spirit of accessibility—so that you can expand your knowledge of accessible websites both within the project and beyond.
Relevant Standards
European Norm 301 549
This the relevant standard for digital accessibility in the European Union, first draftet for the harmonization of the EU' public sector accessibility. In the meantime, the standard has become relevant to the European Accessibility Act.
WCAG
The WCAG, or Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, is the key international standard for digital accessibility, which has also influenced many laws and is part of EN 301 549.
Testing Procedures
BIK Audit (Web)
As a qualified tester for German auditor's collective BIK, I can offer web audits throughout the development process in BIK infrastructures using the BIK testing steps. While this test lacks the obtainable certification seals and mandatory quality assurance found in the “full BIK BITV test,” it is nonetheless an ideal intermediate step on the path to full compliance for your web project.
BIT Inclusive (App)
The BITi testing procedure is also publicly documented (in German), likewise based on EN 301 549, and assesses the accessibility of mobile apps (on iOS and Android)
From Audit to Concrete Steps
A test conducted alongside development in accordance with EN 301 549 or WCAG provides feedback on barriers and comments - but only indirectly identifies knowledge gaps within your teams, thematic common threads, responsibilities, or prioritization, and is organized according to the logic of the tested standard.
That is why I offer the optional, free “post-test analysis”, helping you to convert the formal audit logic into actionable steps.
