The accessibility of your website is more than just a detail; it’s essential for offering everyone an equal and user-friendly experience. In this blog, we explain what accessibility testing is, why it matters, and how to get started with both manual and automated methods.
Did you know that the Paddle CMS Platform was developed in consultation with AnySurfer? It allows you to build accessible websites from the ground up that comply with WCAG standards.
What is accessibility testing?
Accessibility testing checks whether your website meets guidelines such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). It goes beyond design—ensuring your website is functional, navigable, and readable for people with various disabilities, including visual, auditory, or motor impairments.
Why is accessibility important?
- Equal access: Accessibility is about inclusion. Everyone should be able to use your website, regardless of their physical or technical limitations.
- Legal compliance: Digital accessibility is no longer optional. With the European Accessibility Act (EAA) coming into force in June 2025, all organizations will be required to ensure digital accessibility.
- Better user experience: Accessible websites are often simpler and more intuitive, which benefits everyone.
- SEO advantages: Did you know accessible websites rank higher in search engines? Google and Bing value accessible websites, which can improve your visibility.
How to test accessibility?
Step 1: Start with automated tools
Tools like Google Lighthouse, axe DevTools or our own Accessibility Screening Tool give you a quick overview of your website’s accessibility. They're handy for spotting structural issues.
Remember: automated tools only detect 20 to 50% of accessibility issues. Manual testing remains essential.
Step 2: Manual testing
- Keyboard navigation
Can the entire site be used with just a keyboard (Tab, Enter, Shift+Tab)? Make sure all interactive elements are accessible. - Turn off audio
Check if your website still makes sense without sound. - Color and contrast
Ensure text is readable for users with low vision or color blindness. Tools like WebAIM’s Contrast Checker can help. - Screen reader
Use tools like NVDA (Windows) or VoiceOver (Mac) to test usability for visually impaired users. - Responsiveness
Test different screen sizes and orientations to ensure accessibility on mobile devices. - Forms
Fill in forms to test if labels, error messages, and validation are clear and accessible.
Step 3: Accessibility testing with Paddle.be – specific modules for enhanced inclusion
Paddle.be provides tools that make testing and improving your site easier:
- Built-in accessibility check – The Paddle CMS includes a module to check your page’s compliance with WCAG guidelines. It links to your preferred accessibility tool based on your browser.
- AI Alt-tag – Automatically generates descriptive alt text for images, meeting a key EAA requirement and improving UX for all users.
- Contrast switcher – Allows visitors to switch to a high-contrast mode, improving readability for visually impaired users.
- Adjustable font size – Visitors can choose their preferred font size, fully WCAG AAA-compliant.
👉 Also check our full Accessibility Checklist (95.3 KB) "pdf" – a handy tool during testing and development.
Step 4: AnySurfer – independent audit and certification
AnySurfer is a leading Belgian organization in digital accessibility. They don’t build or modify websites, but audit them for WCAG 2.1 AA compliance and award a label as proof of quality.
Their strength lies in combining technical review with real user experience. The AnySurfer label is a valuable confirmation of your efforts.
Accessibility is an ongoing process
Websites evolve—your accessibility should too. Make it part of your workflow:
- Schedule regular tests
- Train your team
- Integrate accessibility from design to development
- Choose Paddle CMS, which supports you with dedicated accessibility features
Conclusion
Accessibility testing not only makes your website more user-friendly, it sends a strong message: everyone counts. Combine automated tools with manual checks, use Paddle.be’s smart modules, and consider an independent review by AnySurfer.
Ready to get started?
- Read our blog on accessible PDF's
- Use our accessibility checklist (95.3 KB) "pdf"
- Check our article on the European Accessibility Act
Or contact us for a free intake.