Ensuring your agency’s website and digital assets comply with Section 508 is critical for providing equal access to all users and avoiding compliance risks. A well-structured roadmap simplifies the process, helping agencies efficiently meet 508 accessibility requirements. This guide will walk you through the steps to develop a 508 compliance roadmap that ensures long-term accessibility.
Developing a 508 Compliance Roadmap
Step 1: Understand Section 508 Requirements
Before diving into compliance, it’s essential to understand Section 508 standards and how they apply to government agencies and contractors. Section 508 is based on WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, which outline specific digital accessibility requirements.
Key Areas of Compliance: Website & Mobile App Accessibility
- PDFs & Digital Documents
- Video & Multimedia Captioning
- Assistive Technology Compatibility
Step 2: Conduct a Website & Digital Asset Audit
Performing an accessibility audit helps identify existing compliance gaps in your digital properties. You can do a quick check with our accessibility tool. This should include:
- Automated Testing -Use tools like WAVE, axe DevTools, and Lighthouse to scan for accessibility errors.
- Manual Testing – Navigate your site using keyboard-only controls and screen readers to simulate real user experiences.
- Document & PDF Review – Ensure all documents are formatted for accessibility, with alt text, proper headings, and readable text.
Pro Tip: A hybrid manual + automated approach provides the most accurate assessment.
Step 3: Create a Prioritized Action Plan
After identifying compliance gaps, prioritize fixes based on severity and impact. Organize updates into three main categories:
Critical Fixes (Immediate Priority) – Non-compliant navigation, missing alt text, inaccessible forms.
- Medium Priority – Enhancing PDF accessibility, improving contrast ratios.
- Long-Term Improvements – Implementing ongoing accessibility monitoring.
- Pro Tip: Assign clear roles to team members for accountability and efficiency.
Step 4: Implement Compliance Updates
Now, it’s time to make the necessary updates based on your action plan.
- Website Fixes – Ensure keyboard accessibility, alt text, proper heading structures.
- Document & PDF Updates – Convert inaccessible PDFs to 508-compliant formats.
- Video & Media Accessibility – Add closed captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions.
Pro Tip: Test regularly to verify that updates are working as expected.
Step 5: Train Your Team on Accessibility Best Practices
Ongoing training ensures that your team maintains 508 compliance in all future digital projects. Key areas of training should include:
- Understanding WCAG & 508 guidelines.
- How to create accessible content and documents.
- Website testing tools and techniques.
Pro Tip: Schedule quarterly training sessions to keep staff updated on evolving regulations.
Step 6: Set Up Ongoing Monitoring & Compliance Checks
Compliance isn’t a one-time fix – it requires continuous monitoring.
- Automated Scans – Use accessibility testing tools to identify new issues.
- User Feedback Loops – Allow real users to report accessibility issues.
- Annual Compliance Audits – Conduct in-depth accessibility reviews.
Pro Tip: Partnering with accessibility experts like Tranistics ensures compliance is maintained long-term.
Need Help? Tranistics Makes 508 Compliance Easy!
Creating and maintaining 508 compliance can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone! Tranistics offers:
- Full accessibility audits & remediation plans
- 508-compliant document & website fixes
- Ongoing support & compliance monitoring
Get a Free 508 Compliance Audit Today!
Final Thoughts
Developing a 508 compliance roadmap ensures that your agency remains compliant while improving accessibility for all users. By following these steps, you’ll create a structured plan that simplifies compliance, reduces legal risks, and promotes inclusive digital experiences.
Have questions? Let’s chat!
