Prescreening Questions to Ask Virtual Accessibility Compliance Officer

How do you stay updated with the latest accessibility standards and guidelines?

Accessibility standards are always evolving. A good accessibility expert knows staying current is part of the job. They might subscribe to industry newsletters, participate in webinars, or be active in forums. Maybe they follow industry leaders on social media. It's about having a finger on the pulse of change.

Can you describe your experience with assistive technologies?

Experience with assistive technologies, like screen readers or magnification software, is critical. Ask the candidate how often they use these tools and in what context. Practical familiarity ensures they understand the user experience, not just the technical requirements.

What tools do you use to assess website accessibility?

Accessibility experts use various tools to audit websites. They might mention specific ones like WAVE, Axe, or Lighthouse. It's also worth noting if they use a combination of automated tools and manual testing. A multifaceted approach usually yields the best results.

How do you handle a situation where a development team is resistant to implementing accessibility recommendations?

Change is hard, and sometimes teams push back. Look for a candidate who speaks about empathy and education. They should have strategies to show the importance of accessibility, perhaps by sharing user stories or demonstrating impact through data.

Can you provide an example of how you’ve improved the accessibility of a digital product?

Real-world examples highlight the candidate's practical experience. Listen for measurable outcomes, like increased user engagement or reduced bounce rates after implementing accessibility features. These success stories can indicate their ability to make a real difference.

What are some common accessibility issues you look for when auditing a website?

Common issues often include missing alt text for images, poor color contrast, and lack of keyboard navigability. The candidate should mention these and more, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of where websites typically fall short.

How do you prioritize accessibility issues in a project?

Not all issues are created equal. An experienced expert will prioritize based on impact and feasibility. Critical blockers that prevent basic accessibility should come first, followed by enhancements that improve usability.

Can you describe your experience with accessibility testing, both automated and manual?

Automation only goes so far. Manual testing captures what tools might miss. A seasoned professional should illustrate a balance of both methods, explaining scenarios where each is most effective.

How do you ensure that digital content meets accessibility standards?

Consistency is key. The expert should discuss processes like using accessible templates, regular audits, and collaborating with content creators to ensure ongoing compliance and quality.

What is your approach to creating accessibility training programs for staff?

Training should be engaging and practical. Good programs often include hands-on exercises and real-world examples. The goal is to make accessibility second nature to staff, not just another checkbox.

How do you approach making multimedia content accessible?

The answer should cover subtitles, captions, and audio descriptions for videos. For images, it could include alt text and detailed descriptions. Ensuring accessibility in multimedia content is about making sure everyone gets the full picture.

Can you explain the importance of ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) roles?

ARIA roles enhance the semantics of web content, making it more accessible to assistive technologies. They bridge gaps where HTML alone falls short, ensuring dynamic content and JavaScript interactions are navigable and understandable.

What steps do you take to ensure that documents (like PDFs) are accessible?

Accessibility in documents often involves using tools like Adobe Acrobat for tagging, ensuring proper reading order, and incorporating alt text for images. It's about making sure every element of the document is reachable and readable.

How do you stay compliant with international accessibility laws and regulations?

Different regions have different laws, like the ADA in the US or the WCAG globally. The candidate should show awareness of these differences and explain how they keep projects compliant through ongoing education and consultation with legal experts.

Can you share experience working with clients to improve their digital accessibility?

Client collaboration requires not just technical skills, but also people skills. The ability to listen, understand needs, and provide actionable insights is crucial. Success stories here can highlight the expert's ability to foster positive client relationships.

How do you communicate complex accessibility issues to non-technical stakeholders?

Clarity is key. They might use analogies, visual aids, or simplified language to explain complex issues. This ensures everyone understands the importance of accessibility and can support initiatives effectively.

What role does accessibility play in user experience design?

Accessibility and UX go hand in hand. By making a website accessible, you're improving the overall user experience for everyone. The expert should articulate how they integrate accessibility from the ground up in the design process.

Can you provide an example of a successful accessibility initiative you’ve led?

Leading initiatives show their leadership and project management skills. Success here could mean a notable improvement in accessibility scores, positive user feedback, or industry recognition.

How would you adapt an already existing website to be more accessible?

Adapting an existing site can be tricky. They should discuss performing an audit, prioritizing fixes, and working iteratively to implement changes. The goal is to balance improvement with minimal disruption.

What strategies do you use to ensure accessible navigation on a website?

Navigation is crucial. They might talk about keyboard-friendly menus, clear links, and logical structure. Ensuring users can move through the site seamlessly is a cornerstone of accessibility.