What's a VPAT?
VPAT stands for "." It's the standard document used to demonstrate compliance withÌý. WCAG compliance is a legal requirement for many organizations (includingÌý). Note that Quebec's accessibility standard (theÌýStandard sur l’accessibilité des sites Web) is only available in French.Ìý
Technically, VPAT refers to the empty template. Once it's filled out, the appropriate term is ACR (which stands for Accessibility Conformance Report). However, VPAT is a widely used term and most organizations will recognize that you want aÌý³¦´Ç³¾±è±ô±ð³Ù±ð»åÌýtemplate if you ask about a VPAT.
Do I need one?
Every ÎÛÎÛ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ site or application should have an accessibility assessment in order to make sure we comply withÌý. However, IT typically handles this for centrally managed platforms (including the WMS). This is another good reason toÌýchoose an existing, centrally supported system rather than building a custom site or application.Ìý
If you're using (or plan to use) a ÎÛÎÛ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ-branded system thatÌýisn'tÌýcentrally managed, your project will need an ACR. This includes:
- Licensed software
- Websites outside the WMS (including those built in WordPress or Drupal)
- Applications that aren't developed or managed by ÎÛÎÛ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ IT staff
As the owner or sponsor of a website or application, it's your responsibility to make sure that a VPAT assessment is done and the ACR is kept up to date.ÌýTake a look at our "How to use a VPAT template" resource to learn how.Ìý
Helpful resources
Does this seem like a lot to handle? Maybe you shouldÌýconsider building your website in the WMSÌýor another centrally-managed platform.ÌýÌýto learn more about your options.Ìý
Want to do a deep dive into digital accessibility? TheÌý"How to use a VPAT template" resourceÌýwill show you how to prepare or evaluate an ACR (depending on what works for your project).ÌýÎÛÎÛ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ's accessibility pageÌýalso has tons of helpful links, resources, and tools.Ìý