Enhancing 508 compliance: Key considerations for federal departments and agencies

December 2023 included some groundbreaking developments in regards to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; the FY 23 Governmentwide Section 508 Assessment, released by the General Services Administration (GSA), and the memo released by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) M-24-08 Strengthening Digital Accessibility and the Management of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, contain vital information detailing the current state of accessibility within federal agencies, as well as guidance and next steps to address some of the problems identified.

The FY 23 Governmentwide Section 508 Assessment's finding is critical of the progress that most federal departments and agencies have made. Specifically, the Executive Summary says:

“Overall compliance to Section 508 is well below expectations given the federal government has had over 20 years to implement programs capable of achieving and maintaining modern [Information and Communications Technology] ICT standards. More than 75% of respondents are at or below average with respect to Section 508 compliance.”

Accessibility metrics are a valuable tool to gauge where your agency falls with regards to meeting the mandated 508 requirements. They provide quantified and objective guides which can be used to show progress.

However, what really makes compliance a worthwhile and meaningful endeavor is the human impact on employees and citizens with disabilities. Let's make it our goal to mitigate challenges, such as a login system that lacks a pathway for users to access their accounts with just a keyboard, or employees who cannot complete their work because they can’t use assistive technology to read needed documents.   

As a 508 compliance and accessible technology expert with over 14 years of experience working directly and indirectly for both the federal government and corporate clients, I offer the following key considerations and lessons learned for agencies seeking to enhance their 508 compliance efforts.

1. Review and utilize the 508 assessment results: To begin the journey towards improved accessibility, agencies should review the detailed information contained within the FY23 Governmentwide Section 508 Assessment to confirm and benchmark the state of their existing 508 programs. Understanding the current state of accessibility within the department or agency is essential for identifying areas that require a plan of action for improvement.
2. Enhance reporting practices: While compliance audits are necessary, agencies should go beyond simply pointing out failures. It is crucial to provide detailed explanations of accessibility issues, along with clear instructions on how to address them—and an explanation of why it is important to do so. Agencies can drive a sense of urgency and commitment to accessibility if they drive home the impact of inaccessible content and systems on the agency mission.
3. Prioritize the people side of accessibility: Compliance with accessibility standards is not just about meeting legal requirements; it is about ensuring equal access for all individuals, regardless of their abilities. Highlighting the importance of creating positive digital experiences for people with disabilities is crucial in creating awareness and fostering a culture of inclusivity. By emphasizing the importance of accessible design and its positive impact on users, agencies can inspire their teams to go beyond compliance and truly embrace the spirit of accessibility.
4. Integrate change management strategies: Implementing change management methodologies can significantly enhance an agency's ability to maintain accessibility practices by building awareness and alignment with organizational goals. While compliance requirements may be a starting point, change management equips agency staff with the knowledge, desire, skills and tools to effectively take ownership and responsibility for accessibility. By promoting a sense of purpose and emphasizing the value of accessibility for end-users, agencies can create a more positive and sustainable approach to 508 compliance.

Improving 508 compliance is not a one-time effort or a topic only to be addressed after failing an audit; it requires ongoing commitment and continuous improvement. By assessing the agency's 508 program, enhancing reporting practices, prioritizing the people side of accessibility, and integrating change management strategies, agencies can create a culture of accessibility that goes beyond mere compliance. Embracing accessibility as a core value not only promotes equal access for all individuals but also leads to better user experiences and more inclusive digital environments. Let us work together to make the digital world accessible to everyone.