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Re: Screen Reader tests after code validation

for

From: Shawn Henry
Date: Mar 9, 2010 12:45PM

Léonie Watson wrote:
> 1. How much added value is there in testing content in JAWS, after it has been evaluated at the code/tag level using automated and manual methods?
>
> If you can, building some user testing into your development plan can certainly add value. Following web standards, and conducting accessibility checks will get you a good way towards your goal, but user testing can really take things to another level.

Here is a resource to help with including real users:
Just Ask: Integrating Accessibility Throughout Design
at http://www.uiAccess.com/JustAsk/

(It's a whole book online free thanks to sponsors.)

> 4. Is the "JAWS for developers" training offered by SSB Bart (or some other vendor I do not know of) worth the cost - compared to self-teaching based on the JAWS "help files?"
>
> I would urge caution about conducting this kind of testing yourself. Unless you are a full time screen reader user, it's unlikely you'll be able to simulate the same experience that a full time screen reader user would have. Naturally, this can lead to some erroneous results creeping in.

More about this is under "Screening techniques are not simulations" on http://www.uiaccess.com/accessucd/screening.html

Hope this helps.

Best,
~Shawn



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Shawn Henry
+1-617-395-7664
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www.uiAccess.com/profile.html
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