Ensure your digital products are accessible by integrating WCAG 2.1 guidelines into testing strategies. Discover essential tools, methods, and skills for effective accessibility testing.
Did you miss Part 1, check it out here!
How does WCAG 2.1 effect my test strategy?
Incorporating WCAG 2.1 guidelines into Quality Assurance (QA) strategies is essential for delivering accessible, user-friendly digital products. By embedding accessibility checks throughout the development and testing lifecycle—rather than treating them as an afterthought—teams can catch issues early, reduce costs, and ensure compliance from the start.
QA teams should use both automated tools and manual testing to evaluate accessibility against WCAG criteria. This includes checking for color contrast, keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, and proper use of semantic HTML. Involving users with disabilities in testing can also provide valuable insights.
Important areas to test according to WCAG 2.1
For many teams, the introduction of WCAG into their development life cycle, can be a complex one. In order to provide their end users with accessible digital products, there's many areas that needs to be considered, improved and tested. Below is a gathering of examples that could be an effective jumping of point. 
Test tools & methods
To ensure digital accessibility, a combination of testing tools and methods should be used.
Automated tools (e.g. Lighthouse) can quickly identify common accessibility issues in code and user interfaces. However, automated checks alone are not sufficient. Manual testing and heuristic evaluations—such as navigating interfaces with screen readers (e.g. VoiceOver & Talkback) help uncover more complex or contextual issues. Whenever possible, user testing with individuals who have various disabilities is highly recommended, as their real-world feedback provides valuable insights that no tool can replicate. This holistic approach leads to more inclusive and user-friendly digital experiences.
New important testing skills
Modern accessibility testing requires more than just technical checks—it demands a broader, user-centered mindset. Testers need a solid understanding of accessibility techniques and guidelines, such as WCAG 2.1, to identify and address compliance gaps effectively. Equally important is developing empathy and insight into how people with different types of disabilities interact with digital products. Recognizing user behaviors and common struggles allows testers to spot issues that automated tools may miss. Lastly, the ability to collaborate closely with designers and developers is crucial. By contributing to an "accessible by design" process from the start, testers help build inclusive experiences that work for everyone.
If you have any questions regarding WCAG 2.1 and accessibility, or your company needs guidance, please don't hesitate to contact us.
