Manual vs Automatic Web Accessibility Audits: Which Option Is Right for You?

#manualaudit #automaticaudit #webaccessibility

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Our unique research methodology for digital accessibility combines user testing, feature analysis, and hands-on experience. We review various remediation software and platforms to provide top recommendations.

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Ritvik Shrivastava
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Government agencies and business owners are both responsible for creating a more inclusive online experience for all customers and users, and it all starts with an accessibility audit.

If you’re new to web accessibility, you will know that there are automatic and manual audit options. Deciding which option is right for you will depend on several factors.

Let’s take a closer look at the difference between manual and automatic accessibility audits so that you can begin the compliance process.

Also read: ADA Compliance guide for websites

What Is an Automatic Audit?

ADA and WCAG guidelines

An automatic audit uses specialized technology to automatically scan a website based on a specific set of parameters. 

Automatic scans are ideal for detecting on-page and technical accessibility issues without the need for human intervention. 

Some of the issues that can be detected with an automatic web accessibility scan include page title errors, poor color contrast, and missing links and form labels. 

Testing for screen reader compatibility and keyboard-only navigation are sometimes where automatic audits can fall short. 

What is a Manual Audit?

manual web accessibility audit

A manual audit requires a qualified and trained accessibility expert to complete the process. 

During a manual audit, a professional will evaluate each individual page on your site across multiple browsers and devices to test for accessibility issues.  

Basically, a manual audit is designed to recreate common issues that a disabled user would potentially experience while engaging with a site – it goes beyond just the technical aspects of your site. 

Not being able to understand images because there are no alt tags for a screen reader to relay is one example of a potential issue. Not being able to engage with a website without a mouse is another. 

The Pros and Cons of Manual and Automatic Accessibility Audits

To help you decide which type of audit is right for you, let’s look at the pros and cons of each option.

Manual Audit Pros & Cons
What we like
  • Because a manual audit is more thorough and in-depth, it can potentially detect issues that an automatic scan might miss.
  • A manual audit can be tailored to the specific needs of your organization.
  • You can interact with a person and ask questions where needed when you choose a manual audit. 
  • Only a once-off fee is generally required for a manual audit.
What we dislike
  • A manual audit takes much longer to complete.
  • It can be more costly because of the manual processes that are involved. 
Automatic Audit Pros & Cons
What we like
  • Quick and easy to perform.
  • Reports provide you with an overview of exactly where your site stands.
  • An automatic audit is far more affordable and in some instances, free. 
What we dislike
  • An automatic audit might miss important issues, leaving your site vulnerable to accessibility lawsuits. For example, an automatic audit can’t tell you whether your image alt tags are providing accurate descriptions or if your site structure is logical and practical. 
  • Automatic scans can have lower accuracy rates, depending on the tools you choose to use.
  • You cannot interact with a person to find out more about how to fix specific issues. 

Deciding on the Best Type of Audit for Your Business Website

Now that you have a better understanding of the pros and cons associated with each type of audit, it’s time to decide which route to take.

If you are just starting your web accessibility journey and want a general idea of the issues you might be dealing with, start with an automatic audit. The report that you get will provide you with a good starting point, helping you to lay the foundation for a more accessible and compliant website. 

Automatic audits are ideal for agencies and other entities that need to scan multiple websites and would like a basic overview of accessibility issues on a site’s page.

Should you find that your site has more issues than you anticipated, it might be best to enlist the help of a seasoned accessibility expert. This way, you can be sure that you’re covering all your bases. It will also give you the chance to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of accessibility requirements. 

In the end, if you have a smaller, basic site, an automatic audit will give you everything you need to comply and avoid costly and unnecessary lawsuits. However, if you are a larger organization and service an international audience, a manual audit could be a worthwhile investment. 

You could even choose to invest in a tool that automatically scans your website on a regular basis, helping you stay on top of accessibility errors before they become major concerns.

Recommended Web Accessibility Tools

Here are just some of the tools you can consider as you get started on your web accessibility journey.

(4.8/5)
(4.7/5)
(3/5)
Existing Customers
vodafone logo
qudos bank logo
akamai technologies logo
springfield clinic logo
Technology Fully automated web accessibility solution Fully automated web accessibility solution Manual web accessibility solution and automated browser extension and plugin
Compliant in Countries
Compliance WCAG | ADA | AODA | Section 508 | EAA WCAG | ADA | AODA | Section 508 | EAA WCAG | ADA | Section 508 | EAA
Prices
Starts at
From $49
Starts at
From $49
Starts at
Custom Quotation Required
Partner Program (for Web Agencies)
  • 20% global commission & discount
  • Free license
  • No commitment or signup fees
  • Earn up to 30% commissions
  • Billing done your way
  • Custom deal structures
  • Refer and co-sell
  • Access to training and certification
  • Compensation for deals won
Customer support Chat & Email Support Chat & Email Support Email & Phone Support
Free Demo Yes
Free demo available
Yes
Free demo available
Yes
Free demo available
Free Trial No credit card needed
7-day free trial
Credit card required
7-day free trial
No
Free website accessibility audit available

The Way Forward

The good news is that there are multiple tools and accessibility solutions to choose from regardless of your requirements or budget.

What’s most important is that you don’t leave web accessibility at the bottom of your to-do list and only take action once your brand’s reputation and financial status are at risk.

We all have a role to play in creating a more inclusive world for all and it starts with taking small, but significant steps. 

How we reviewed this article
  1. Current version
  2. Modified November 23, 2023

    What we changed

    Suggested solutions were reviewed to ensure they are still relevant.

  3. Modified February 9, 2023

    What we changed

    The article was reviewed by an expert

  4. First Draft of the Article September 5, 2022

Anthony is a dedicated digital accessibility content writer with a knack for making complex topics accessible to all. He specializes in creating content that ensures websites and applications are usable by people with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and compliance with accessibility standards. In addition to his focus on digital accessibility, Anthony’s expertise extends to writing about various tech-related subjects, including servers, VPNs, and other technological innovations. His versatile writing style and deep understanding of technology allow him to effectively communicate intricate concepts to a broad audience.

Danny Trichter is a dedicated researcher specializing in digital accessibility, ensuring that websites and digital platforms are usable by everyone, including those with disabilities. Beyond his professional pursuits, Danny enjoys exploring new destinations, sharing his travel experiences on his blog, and discovering hidden gems in Thailand where he currently resides. In his leisure time, he loves hiking, connecting with nature, and capturing the beauty of the world through his camera lens

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