When was the last time you thought about how accessible your website or software is? Whether you're a developer, business owner, or simply someone involved in digital product creation, you’ve likely heard the term "VPAT" being tossed around. But what exactly is it, and why should you care about it?

A Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) is more than just another acronym to add to your digital vocabulary. It's a document that outlines how accessible a product is, helping businesses assess their product’s compliance with accessibility standards, particularly Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. This might sound like technical jargon, but stick with me, and we’ll break it down.

Why Does VPAT Matter?

Accessibility has become a major focus in the digital world—and for good reason. People with disabilities rely on technology just as much as anyone else, and they face unique challenges when products aren’t designed with accessibility in mind.

VPAT helps businesses ensure their products can be used by everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive abilities. But here’s the thing: creating an accessible product isn’t just about being socially responsible (though that’s important!). It can also help companies avoid legal trouble, boost their reputation, and even reach a broader audience.

Let’s walk through what a VPAT really is, why it matters, and how to make sure your business is ticking all the right boxes.

What Does a VPAT Cover?

At its core, a VPAT is a standardized document that assesses how well your product meets accessibility guidelines, particularly those set forth by Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and the European EN 301 549 accessibility standards.

The template is broken down into four key areas:

1. Perceivable - Can all users, regardless of disability, perceive the information on your site or software? This includes things like text alternatives for non-text content, captions for videos, and clear, understandable text.
2. Operable - Are interactive elements, such as buttons and forms, easy to navigate for everyone, including those using assistive technologies like screen readers or keyboards?
3. Understandable - Is the content easy to comprehend, and does your product behave in predictable ways to avoid confusion for all users?
4. Robust - Can your product work with current and future assistive technologies, ensuring that it remains accessible as these tools evolve?

Who Needs a VPAT?

If your business creates digital products—whether that’s a website, app, or software—there’s a good chance you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the VPAT. It’s especially crucial for businesses that work with government agencies or educational institutions, as they are often required to meet specific accessibility standards.

But it’s not just about compliance. Even if your company isn’t legally obligated to provide a VPAT, having one in place shows that you’re committed to creating accessible products, which can give you a competitive edge. Plus, it opens the door to a wider audience, including the estimated 1 billion people globally who live with some form of disability.

How Do You Create a VPAT?

Now that you understand why VPATs matter, you’re probably wondering how to actually create one. It’s not as daunting as it might seem, but it does require some attention to detail.

1. Choose the Right Version - The VPAT has different versions depending on the standards you need to meet, such as Section 508, WCAG, or EN 301 549. Make sure you select the version that aligns with your product and your target market.
2. Conduct an Accessibility Audit - Before filling out the VPAT, you’ll need to perform a thorough accessibility audit of your product. This involves testing your website or software to identify any barriers that could prevent people with disabilities from fully using it.
3. Fill Out the VPAT - Once you’ve conducted your audit, you can start filling out the template. Be honest and specific about your product’s level of compliance. If there are areas where your product falls short, explain how you plan to address those issues.
4. Get Expert Help - If you’re not familiar with accessibility standards, it’s a good idea to bring in an expert who can guide you through the audit and help you accurately fill out the VPAT. This will not only ensure accuracy but also save you time.
5. Regularly Update the VPAT - Accessibility is an ongoing process, not a one-time task. As your product evolves, so should your VPAT. Make sure to revisit and update the document regularly to reflect any improvements or changes.

Benefits of Having a VPAT

Now that you know what a VPAT is and how to create one, let’s look at some of the key benefits that come with having this document in place.

• Legal Protection - Having a VPAT can help your business comply with legal requirements, reducing the risk of lawsuits or fines related to accessibility.
• Reputation Boost - Companies that prioritize accessibility are viewed more favorably by the public. A VPAT shows that you’re committed to inclusivity, which can strengthen your brand’s reputation.
• Wider Audience - Making your products accessible isn’t just the right thing to do; it also opens up your business to a larger market. People with disabilities represent a significant percentage of the population, and reaching them can lead to more customers.
• Competitive Advantage - Many businesses still overlook accessibility, so providing a VPAT can set you apart from competitors, especially in sectors like government and education.
• Improved User Experience - Products designed with accessibility in mind tend to offer a better user experience for everyone, not just those with disabilities.

Final Thoughts

Accessibility isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity in today’s digital world. Whether you're required by law to have a VPAT or you simply want to make your products more inclusive, taking the time to create this document can pay off in many ways. By ensuring your products meet accessibility standards, you’re not just avoiding legal pitfalls—you’re also helping to create a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for everyone.