Do It Yourself – Web Testing Tools

Contact the IT Accessibility Coordinator

Kristine Neuber
IT Accessibility Coordinator

Assistive Technology Initiative
MS: 6A11
Voice: 703-993-9815
Fax: 703-993-4743
kneuber@gmu.edu

The ATI uses a variety of automated testing tools to evaluate websites which are free for anyone to use. Here is information on our most frequently used tools.

WAVE Tool

WAVE by WebAim opens a new window is a tool for web developers to help evaluate the accessibility of website within any browser.  Simply type in the web address after opening the WAVE browser and press enter. WAVE will provide a Summary of the results as well as display findings directly on the webpage through easy-to-read colored icons.  WAVE also provides information on the standards tested and how to fix the errors.  You can find this information by selecting the information icon next to the error.

WAVE will help you:

    • Identify accessibility errors using red icons including missing alt text, empty links and missing headings
    • Identify accessibility warnings as yellow icons
    • Identify accessible elements already in place as green icons
    • Identify areas of low color contrast
    • Provide information about what errors mean and how to fix them.

Web Aim also provides the WAVE Chrome Extension opens a new window which is integrated into Chrome and allows the user to run reports on any web  page. Visit How to Use WAVE (YouTube) opens a new window for a detailed video on how to navigate WAVE.

ANDI – Accessible Name & Description Inspector

ANDI opens a new window is a web accessibility testing tool that works with most browsers.ANDI tool

    • Helps to test for keyboard accessibility through the focusable elements component
    • Identifies missing alt-text on graphics and images
    • Displays information that will be spoken by a screen reading program
    • Identifies low color contrast
    • Provide information about what errors mean and how to fix them.

ANDI User Guide opens a new window

ANDI Tool

ARC Toolkit

The ARC Toolkit was developed by the Paciello Group. It integrates with Chromes Developer Tools. It assists developers in identifying accessibility issues.

The ARC Toolkit is ideal for developers because it provides a visual of the code, identification of the error and recommended fixes all in one place.

Reporting Definitions:

    • Passing results are those with no accessibility issues found.
    • Errors are results where accessibility issues are found.
    • Warning are potential issues that ARC has flagged but require manual verification.
    • Hidden results that are not visible in a browser but may impact assistive technology users.

ARC tool

*ARC Toolkit Introduction video (YouTube) opens a new window