Ensuring Section 508 Compliance of Deliverables
Abt Global understands the importance of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act (as amended by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998); we are sensitive to the need for the federal government to make its information accessible to all, including those with disabilities. Our trained and knowledgeable staff ensure that product deliverables meet Section 508 specifications to be accessible to people with disabilities, while maintaining the highest quality design standards. Abt Global will provide comprehensive support to help clients fully comply with Section 508. Our staff provides expertise in Section 508 compliance, as well as compliance with the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. In addition, they are experienced with the various types of commercial software and web-based accessibility compliance tools and validators.
Abt typically produces several categories of electronic and information technology (EIT) deliverables that are required to meet Section 508 compliance guidelines:
- Websites developed and maintained for federal clients
- Software applications
- Project deliverables such as reports other publications
- Multimedia presentations (captioning)
Our commitment to complying with contract requirements pertaining to Section 508 is evidenced at every level of the Abt organization. Abt has designed and implemented guidelines and processes to make our EIT deliverables compliant with Section 508 requirements. Our computer programmers are knowledgeable with regard to the requirements and methods to make websites and software applications accessible. Our production staff, who are trained in formatting documents so that they are accessible to screen readers, regularly receive Section 508 compliance training. They have also been trained in testing for compliance using popular software products such as Freedom Scientific’s JAWS screen reader and Adobe Acrobat’s Accessibility Checker. Project staff are familiar with Section 508 compliance requirements and consult with Section 508 specialists as necessary.
Information Technology Staff
Our information technology staff ensures Abt teams staff have the tools and training to create compliant materials and test accessibility, receive regular updates and training on new software, and stay abreast of requirements and methods for website and software accessibility.
Project Staff
Our project staff identifies client needs for Section 508-compliant materials, communicates with production staff, assists in tagging and providing alternative text as necessary, and performs quality control reviews of Section 508-compliant materials.
Production Staff
Our production staff communicates with project staff regarding specific needs such as tagging and alternative text and , creates Section 508-compliant materials, tests accessibility, and participates in trainings on software and tools.
Contract Staff
Our contract staff regularly reviews materials to ensure compliance with all contract requirements, including Section 508.
Management
Abt’s management provides corporate oversight, review, and assessment to ensure compliance with contract requirements, including Section 508.
