Understanding the VPAT: A Tool for Digital Accessibility Compliance
VPAT or The Voluntary Product Accessibility Template is an important document that helps organizations demonstrate how accessible their digital products are for people with disabilities. Whether you're bidding for federal contracts in the U.S., entering the European market, or expanding globally, having a VPAT in place is essential.
This blog explains what a VPAT is, why it's important for accessibility compliance, how to create one, and the challenges organizations may face. From legal requirements to user experience benefits, we cover everything you need to know about VPATs and how they support inclusive digital design.
What is a VPAT?
A VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) is a standardized document that outlines how accessible a digital product or service is. It provides a clear and structured assessment of conformance with accessibility standards and guidelines such as:
By using a VPAT, organizations can evaluate and report how well their websites, software, mobile apps, or electronic documents serve users with visual, hearing, physical, speech, cognitive, and neurological disabilities.
A VPAT is not just a form—it's a strategic accessibility reporting tool. It helps developers, product owners, and procurement teams ensure that accessibility is considered from the design phase through delivery, improving usability for all.
Why Was the VPAT Developed?
The VPAT was originally created by the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) to help vendors provide transparency on how their digital products meet accessibility standards. It empowers buyers, especially government agencies, to make informed purchasing decisions.
Today, the VPAT is used globally by both public and private sector organizations to support digital inclusion and demonstrate corporate responsibility. It also plays a vital role in mitigating legal risk by ensuring products meet national and international accessibility laws.
VPAT Structure: Key Components Explained
A VPAT is structured to provide a clear, detailed and honest evaluation of a product's accessibility features. It generally includes:
- Product Overview:
- Describes the product, its purpose, and intended users.
- Provides context for understanding accessibility in relation to its features.
- Conformance Levels:
- Rates accessibility based on standards like WCAG 2.1 A, AA, AAA, Section 508, or EN 301 549.
- Indicates whether the product fully, partially, or does not support each requirement.
- Detailed Evaluation:
- Explains how the product meets or falls short of specific accessibility criteria.
- Identifies strengths and improvement areas.
- Comments and Explanations:
- Notes planned enhancements or known limitations.
- Builds trust through transparency and accountability.
Different Versions of VPAT
Over time, the VPAT has evolved to include different versions to cater to varied needs:
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VPAT 2.0 or the Section 508 VPAT – For U.S. federal compliance.
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WCAG VPAT – For general web accessibility (global use).
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EU VPAT – For products marketed in the European Union.
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International VPAT – A comprehensive version covering all major standards, ideal for multinational companies.
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Why is VPAT Important for Accessibility?
1. Legal Compliance
If your company sells to government agencies or is subject to accessibility regulations, having a completed and up-to-date VPAT is often mandatory.
For example:
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In the U.S., Section 508 requires federal agencies to use accessible technologies.
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The European Accessibility Act and EN 301 549 mandate accessibility for digital services in the EU.
A VPAT demonstrates due diligence and helps protect against legal risks under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
2. Enhancing User Experience
Filling out a VPAT makes it important for organizations to examine how usable and inclusive their digital assets really are. Addressing gaps improves overall usability, benefiting not only users with disabilities but all users.
Accessible design often leads to:
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Clearer navigation
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Better mobile usability
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Compatibility with assistive technologies
3. Brand Reputation
Consumers, clients, and investors increasingly favor companies that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). A completed VPAT is a public signal of your commitment to digital accessibility.
Accessible businesses:
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Earn positive media attention
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Build loyalty among diverse customer bases
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Demonstrate ethical and inclusive business practices
4. Competitive Advantage
Accessibility is a market differentiator. A VPAT gives your organization an edge, especially when bidding for government or enterprise contracts that require accessibility documentation.
It can also unlock new markets by making your products usable for millions of people with disabilities—and those who interact with them, like caregivers and educators.
How to Create a VPAT ?
Step 1: Conduct an Accessibility Audit
Test your digital product against relevant accessibility guidelines and standards like WCAG or Section 508. Use both automated tools (e.g., A11yInspect) and manual testing, including feedback from users with disabilities.
Step 2: Document the Findings
Summarize what your product supports fully, partially, or not at all. Be transparent and detail the areas needing improvement.
Step 3: Fill Out the VPAT
Use the correct VPAT format (WCAG, Section 508, EU, or International). Clearly document:
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Standard references
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Conformance levels
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Explanations and notes
Step 4: Review and Update Regularly
Accessibility is a continuous journey. Revisit your VPAT with every product update, new feature, or regulatory change to maintain compliance.
Master the art of crafting a clear and accurate VPAT with this ACE Byte
Challenges in Implementing VPAT
1. Complexity of Standards
Accessibility standards can be technical and nuanced. Interpreting and applying them accurately requires expertise. Partnering with accessibility professionals can simplify this process.
2. Resource Allocation
Small businesses may find it challenging to allocate the time and resources needed for accessibility audits and VPAT creation. However, outsourcing to specialists can be a cost-effective solution with long-term ROI.
3. Keeping Up with Changes
As accessibility laws evolve (such as EU Digital Accessibility regulations or updated WCAG guidelines), organizations must stay informed and revise their VPATs accordingly.
Need help with VPAT Compliance?
The VPAT is more than a compliance document—it's a gateway to creating inclusive digital products that benefit everyone. It protects your organization legally, enhances user experience, strengthens brand trust, and helps you compete in accessibility-conscious markets.
At BarrierBreak, we specialize in accessibility audit solutions and can assist you in creating tailored VPATs to meet your specific needs. Whether you require Section 508 compliance, WCAG conformance, or comprehensive international assessments, our team of experts, including professionals with disabilities, ensures your digital products are inclusive and compliant. Partner with us to demonstrate your commitment to accessibility and open your products to a wider audience. Get in touch at sales@barrierbreak.com.