How to Become an Accessibility Analyst (Championing Web for All)
If you’ve ever dreamed of making the digital world more inclusive or wondered what it takes to become an accessibility analyst, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as an accessibility analyst. We’ll talk about:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can help you get there.
- How to land a job as an accessibility analyst.
So, whether you’re a tech newbie or a tech-savvy individual looking to upskill, stay tuned.
We’re about to unravel the blueprint to becoming an accessibility analyst.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become an Accessibility Analyst
Step 1: Understand the Importance of Accessibility
Before stepping into the role of an Accessibility Analyst, it is crucial to understand the importance of accessibility in creating inclusive digital environments.
This understanding can stem from learning about different disabilities, the barriers these disabilities may pose in the digital world, and how accessibility can alleviate these barriers.
You should familiarize yourself with various international accessibility standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and understand how they contribute to creating accessible digital content.
This knowledge will be the foundation for your career as an Accessibility Analyst.
Spend time interacting with different assistive technologies, like screen readers and speech recognition software, to understand how they aid people with disabilities.
This can give you a hands-on experience of the challenges faced by this community and the importance of accessibility.
Remember, accessibility is not just about compliance with laws and guidelines but about building an inclusive digital environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can access and benefit from it.
As an Accessibility Analyst, you will play a key role in achieving this objective.
Step 2: Learn Accessibility Standards and Guidelines
As an Accessibility Analyst, you need to be proficient in various accessibility standards and guidelines.
These standards are designed to make sure that websites and applications are usable by people with disabilities.
The most widely accepted standards are the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which are developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).
Start by familiarizing yourself with the WCAG, its principles, guidelines, and success criteria.
Pay special attention to the different levels of conformance: A, AA, and AAA.
Each level has different requirements and understanding these can help you evaluate a website or application’s level of accessibility.
Additionally, you should also learn about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, both of which have specific requirements for digital accessibility.
You can find a wealth of resources online, including tutorials, webinars, and online courses, to learn about these standards and guidelines.
There are also certification programs available that can validate your knowledge and skills in this area.
Remember, accessibility standards are continually evolving, so it’s important to keep up-to-date with the latest developments and changes in the field.
Step 3: Gain a Strong Background in Web Development
As an accessibility analyst, you’ll often be responsible for evaluating and ensuring that websites and other digital platforms are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.
Therefore, a strong foundation in web development is crucial.
Understanding the principles of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other relevant languages and tools can help you identify potential accessibility issues more efficiently.
Begin by learning the basics of web development, which include understanding how to create a website using HTML and CSS, and how to make it interactive using JavaScript.
This knowledge will be invaluable when it comes to evaluating the accessibility of websites and recommending changes.
Next, focus on understanding more advanced concepts, such as how to design responsive websites that adapt to different screen sizes, making sure they are accessible on various devices.
Learn about different web development frameworks like React or Angular, which can offer more efficient ways of building accessible websites.
Finally, always keep up with the latest trends and technologies in web development.
This will not only enhance your skills as a web developer but will also ensure you stay up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques for ensuring web accessibility.
You may also consider getting certifications in web development to further solidify your knowledge and credibility.
Step 4: Familiarize Yourself with Assistive Technologies
As an Accessibility Analyst, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with various assistive technologies.
This is because these technologies are used by individuals with disabilities to interact with digital content.
Some examples of assistive technologies include screen readers, speech recognition software, screen magnifiers, and alternative input devices.
Being familiar with assistive technologies allows you to understand their capabilities and limitations, which in turn helps you evaluate the accessibility of digital platforms.
For example, understanding how a screen reader works can help you identify and address issues that may prevent a screen reader user from accessing certain content.
There are many ways to familiarize yourself with assistive technologies.
You can attend workshops or training sessions, or self-learn by using online resources.
Moreover, many assistive technology providers offer free trial versions of their products, allowing you to learn by hands-on experience.
Remember that learning about assistive technologies is not a one-time activity.
New technologies are continuously being developed, and existing ones are regularly updated.
Therefore, it is essential to stay updated with the latest advancements in assistive technologies to provide the best evaluation and recommendations for enhancing digital accessibility.
Step 5: Take Courses and Obtain Certifications
As an aspiring Accessibility Analyst, it’s essential for you to deepen your knowledge in digital accessibility and usability.
This can be achieved by enrolling in specific courses related to the field.
Courses in web development, digital design, and human-computer interaction can be particularly beneficial as these areas are intrinsically linked to accessibility analysis.
You can find a variety of these courses on online platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning.
Some universities also offer relevant courses as part of their Computer Science or Design degrees.
Upon completion of these courses, you might want to consider obtaining professional certifications.
Certifications can demonstrate your competence and commitment to prospective employers.
One widely recognized certification is the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) offered by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP).
The Web Accessibility Specialist (WAS) certification, also offered by IAAP, is another great option to consider.
Remember, gaining knowledge and certifications are not one-time tasks but ongoing processes.
As technology evolves, so do accessibility standards and best practices.
Therefore, continuous learning and staying updated with the latest developments in the field are crucial for an Accessibility Analyst.
Step 6: Engage in Community and Networking
As an Accessibility Analyst, it’s crucial to interact and engage with others in your field.
Networking can allow you to share insights, learn about the latest trends, and even discover new job opportunities.
Join local and online communities, attend relevant conferences, webinars, or workshops, and participate in forums where accessibility issues are discussed.
These could be groups on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn or dedicated accessibility platforms like WebAIM or the Accessibility Project.
By being an active member of these communities, you will not only expand your knowledge base but also make important connections with professionals in the field.
Through networking, you might meet potential mentors, collaborators, or employers.
Keep in mind that the accessibility field is continuously evolving, so staying updated and connected is key for your success as an Accessibility Analyst.
Also, consider volunteering your skills for non-profit organizations or projects that promote digital accessibility.
This would not only demonstrate your commitment to the cause but also provide real-world experience and enhance your portfolio.
Step 7: Gain Practical Experience
As an Accessibility Analyst, it’s essential that you gain practical experience working in the field.
While theoretical knowledge provides a foundation, applying this knowledge in real-world situations will aid in building your skills and expertise in accessibility analysis.
Begin by seeking internships or junior roles in companies that emphasize accessibility in their product design.
You may start in a supporting role, assisting senior accessibility analysts in their tasks.
This gives you the opportunity to understand the practical aspects of the role, such as testing digital interfaces for accessibility compliance, creating reports, and recommending solutions.
Volunteering for accessibility projects can also provide valuable experience.
Non-profit organizations or educational institutions often have such opportunities.
This could involve helping to improve the accessibility of their websites or digital tools.
Consider working on your own projects as well.
This could be anything from an accessible website to a mobile application.
This will not only give you practical experience but also provide a portfolio to showcase your skills to potential employers.
Remember, the aim is to understand how to make digital platforms usable for all individuals, including those with disabilities.
The more experience you gain, the better equipped you will be to assist organizations in creating truly inclusive digital environments.
Step 8: Stay Updated on Accessibility Laws and Regulations
In the evolving world of technology and digital platforms, it is essential for an Accessibility Analyst to stay abreast of the latest accessibility laws and regulations.
This is not only to ensure that the products or services you are working on are compliant but also to stay competitive in your field.
The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) is an international community that develops standards for the Web.
They have created the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which are often adopted into law around the world.
Familiarize yourself with these guidelines as they are the most common set of accessibility rules in use today.
Additionally, there are numerous country-specific laws and regulations that you should be aware of, like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) in Canada, or the Equality Act in the United Kingdom.
Regularly review these regulations and attend seminars, workshops, or conferences to keep your knowledge up to date.
Online resources, like newsletters and blogs focusing on accessibility, are also great tools to stay informed about the latest changes in laws and regulations.
Being aware of these rules and regulations will help you to better analyze and improve the accessibility of the systems you are working on, ultimately creating a more inclusive environment for all users.
Step 9: Develop Soft Skills and User Advocacy
As you progress in your role as an Accessibility Analyst, it’s crucial to continually hone your soft skills and develop a strong sense of user advocacy.
This is particularly important in this role as you’ll often be the bridge between the technical teams who are creating products, and the end users who will be utilizing them.
Soft skills like communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and empathy are especially important.
You need to effectively communicate accessibility issues to developers, designers and stakeholders, who may not have a deep understanding of accessibility standards.
Additionally, you have to present solutions that are technically viable and aligned with business objectives.
Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities are necessary for identifying barriers in accessibility and coming up with innovative solutions.
You should be able to navigate complex issues and make decisions that balance user needs, business goals, and technical capabilities.
Developing empathy is central to user advocacy.
Remember, you are standing up for users who often can’t advocate for themselves.
Understand the difficulties they face and champion their needs throughout the design and development process.
This might involve conducting user interviews, usability testing with persons with disabilities, or advocating for accessibility in meetings and strategy discussions.
Overall, combining these soft skills with your technical knowledge will make you a more effective Accessibility Analyst and ensure you are creating the most inclusive and accessible user experiences possible.
Step 10: Apply for Accessibility Analyst Positions
After all the preparatory steps, you are now ready to apply for positions as an Accessibility Analyst.
Look for job postings on various job boards, company websites, and LinkedIn. You might also want to connect with a recruitment agency specializing in technology and digital roles, as they often have opportunities that are not advertised elsewhere.
When applying, ensure your resume is updated to highlight relevant skills and experiences, such as knowledge of accessibility guidelines and standards, experience in conducting accessibility audits, and familiarity with assistive technologies.
Don’t forget to include any certifications you’ve earned related to accessibility.
In your cover letter, explain your passion for creating accessible digital environments and how your background and skills make you the ideal candidate for the job.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get a job offer right away.
This field is highly specialized, and it may take time to find the right fit.
Keep improving your skills and stay current with the latest accessibility trends and guidelines while you’re job hunting.
Remember to prepare for interviews by revisiting your knowledge on web accessibility and familiarizing yourself with common interview questions for Accessibility Analysts.
Demonstrating your practical skills and showing a deep understanding of the importance of digital accessibility during the interview can significantly increase your chances of getting hired.
Accessibility Analyst Roles and Responsibilities
Accessibility Analysts perform a critical role in ensuring that digital content, technology, and services are accessible and usable by people with disabilities.
They are responsible for identifying and addressing accessibility issues and ensuring compliance with accessibility standards and legislation.
Accessibility Testing
- Plan, conduct, and coordinate accessibility testing activities.
- Use automated tools and manual techniques to perform accessibility testing.
- Test websites, applications, and digital content for accessibility compliance.
Problem Solving
- Identify, evaluate, and prioritize accessibility issues.
- Propose solutions for identified accessibility issues.
- Help developers and designers understand how to implement proposed solutions.
Accessibility Standards Compliance
- Ensure compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and other relevant standards.
- Review and interpret accessibility standards and regulations.
- Provide guidance on how to meet accessibility standards and best practices.
Documentation
- Document accessibility test results and maintain testing records.
- Create and update accessibility guidelines and checklists.
Training and Education
- Educate and train team members on accessibility principles and techniques.
- Help create a culture of accessibility within the organization.
Collaboration
- Work closely with developers, designers, and project managers to ensure accessibility is considered throughout project lifecycle.
- Participate in cross-functional teams to improve accessibility.
Accessibility Advocacy
- Promote the importance of accessibility within the organization and to external stakeholders.
- Advocate for the needs of users with disabilities in design and development processes.
Continuous Learning
- Stay current with the latest developments in accessibility tools, techniques, and standards.
- Attend conferences, workshops, and training programs to enhance accessibility knowledge.
Communication
- Effectively communicate accessibility issues, solutions, and guidelines to a variety of stakeholders.
- Provide clear, concise, and actionable feedback to improve accessibility.
What Does an Accessibility Analyst Do?
Accessibility Analysts primarily work in the digital environment to ensure that websites, applications, and other digital content are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.
They often work for corporations across industries or as part of IT firms, and occasionally may work as independent contractors.
They closely work with designers, developers, and other team members to identify, fix, and prevent accessibility issues in the digital products.
They conduct audits and accessibility testing to ensure compliance with various accessibility standards like Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
Their job is to ensure that the digital content is not only compliant with legal requirements but also genuinely usable by individuals with a wide range of abilities.
This includes users who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, motor impaired, cognitively impaired, or who have other disabilities.
They may also provide training and resources to other team members to promote a culture of accessibility, and to ensure that accessibility considerations are part of the design and development process from the beginning.
Accessibility Analysts need to stay updated with the latest technological advancements and changes in accessibility standards to ensure that the digital content is always inclusive and accessible to all users.
Essential Accessibility Analyst Skills
- Understanding Accessibility Guidelines: An Accessibility Analyst needs to be well-versed with accessibility guidelines and regulations such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), Section 508, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), etc.
- Auditing: This role requires skills in auditing websites, applications, and other digital assets for accessibility compliance. This involves using various tools and methodologies to identify issues.
- Knowledge of Assistive Technologies: Familiarity with various assistive technologies like screen readers, speech recognition software, and magnification software is crucial to understand how differently-abled individuals interact with digital content.
- Communication: They must communicate accessibility issues, their impacts, and possible solutions effectively to diverse stakeholders such as developers, designers, project managers, and clients.
- Problem-Solving: Identifying accessibility issues is just part of the job. Accessibility Analysts also need to devise practical and effective solutions to these problems, which requires strong problem-solving skills.
- HTML/CSS Knowledge: Basic understanding of HTML (HyperText Markup Language) and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) is vital as they are the building blocks of web content.
- JavaScript: Since JavaScript greatly affects how a webpage behaves, knowledge of JavaScript and how it interacts with accessibility APIs is important.
- Empathy: Understanding and empathizing with the challenges faced by differently-abled individuals is a key skill for Accessibility Analysts. This helps in creating user-friendly and inclusive digital assets.
- Advocacy: Promoting accessibility and inclusivity within the organization and advocating for the needs and rights of differently-abled individuals is an essential part of this role.
- User Testing: Conducting user testing sessions with differently-abled users and incorporating their feedback to improve the accessibility of digital assets.
- Documentation: They should have the ability to document issues, solutions, and recommendations in a clear and concise manner.
- Collaboration: As they often work with developers, designers, and other team members, good teamwork and collaboration skills are important.
- Continuous Learning: The field of digital accessibility is continually evolving, and Accessibility Analysts must keep up-to-date with new technologies, guidelines, and best practices.
Accessibility Analyst Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Junior Accessibility Analyst
Your journey typically begins as a Junior Accessibility Analyst.
At this stage, you are learning about various accessibility standards and guidelines.
Your responsibilities may include assisting with accessibility audits, conducting basic testing, and helping to create accessible designs.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Learn Continuously: Keep yourself updated with the latest accessibility standards and guidelines.
- Seek Mentorship: Learn from the experiences of senior colleagues and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
- Practice: Get hands-on experience with different testing tools and assistive technologies.
The Ascent: Accessibility Analyst
As you gain more knowledge and experience, you’ll move up to the role of an Accessibility Analyst.
In this role, you’ll conduct more comprehensive accessibility audits, help develop policies, and provide guidance on accessibility best practices.
Here’s how to excel in this stage:
- Communication: Communicate effectively with your team and other stakeholders to ensure accessibility is integrated into all processes.
- Problem Solving: Identify accessibility barriers and propose suitable solutions.
- Knowledge Sharing: Conduct training sessions to spread awareness about accessibility.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Accessibility Analyst
The next step in your career path is becoming a Senior Accessibility Analyst.
In this role, you’re expected to provide leadership on accessibility issues, mentor junior analysts, and work closely with stakeholders to implement accessibility best practices.
To excel as a Senior Accessibility Analyst:
- Mentorship: Share your expertise and help junior analysts develop their skills.
- Strategic Thinking: Think strategically about accessibility, considering both immediate issues and long-term goals.
- Leadership: Lead accessibility initiatives and promote an inclusive culture within the organization.
Beyond the Horizon: Accessibility Consultant or Manager
As your career progresses, you may choose to become an Accessibility Consultant or Manager.
These roles involve providing expert guidance to organizations, developing comprehensive accessibility strategies, and leading large-scale accessibility projects.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Technical Leadership: Drive the implementation of accessibility standards and best practices across the organization.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team and influence stakeholders.
- Innovation: Stay at the forefront of accessibility trends and technologies to ensure your organization’s products and services are inclusive for all users.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Accessibility
You may reach the role of Director of Accessibility at the pinnacle of your career.
In this position, you’ll be responsible for shaping the organization’s overall accessibility strategy, influencing top-level decisions, and championing inclusivity at the highest levels.
Accessibility Analyst Salary
Entry-Level Accessibility Analyst
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year
- Entry-level accessibility analysts typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or a related field. They start their careers by learning and understanding web accessibility guidelines and standards.
Mid-Level Accessibility Analyst
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $90,000 per year
- Mid-level accessibility analysts have 2-5 years of experience. They take on more complex tasks such as conducting accessibility audits and proposing fixes for accessibility issues. They often have a good understanding of assistive technology used by people with disabilities.
Senior Accessibility Analyst
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 per year
- Senior accessibility analysts possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading accessibility initiatives, making strategic decisions related to accessibility, and mentoring junior analysts. They often have advanced knowledge of ADA, WCAG, and other relevant accessibility laws and guidelines.
Lead Accessibility Analyst / Accessibility Manager
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $140,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve overseeing a team of accessibility analysts, shaping accessibility strategy, and coordinating with various departments to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Director of Accessibility / VP of Accessibility
- Median Salary: $130,000 – $200,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep knowledge of accessibility standards and laws, and often involve setting accessibility strategies for a company, working with top management and influencing company-wide policies to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.
Accessibility Analyst Work Environment
Accessibility Analysts often work in tech companies, government agencies, educational institutions, and consulting firms, but they can also find employment in any organization that is keen to make their digital content and platforms accessible to everyone.
Most Accessibility Analysts work full-time in an office setting.
However, with the nature of their work mainly on digital platforms, they may have the flexibility to work remotely.
They often work collaboratively with various other teams in the organization, such as the development team, user experience design team, and product management team, to ensure that all digital content, websites, and software are fully accessible and usable.
As an Accessibility Analyst advances in their career, they may take on more strategic roles, overseeing the accessibility strategy of the entire organization or leading a team of analysts.
FAQs About Becoming an Accessibility Analyst
What is needed to become an accessibility analyst?
Becoming an accessibility analyst generally requires a background in computer science, web development, or a related field.
A strong understanding of web standards and guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), is essential.
Knowledge of assistive technologies and their use is also important.
You should have excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to empathize with and advocate for people with disabilities.
A degree in a related field can be helpful but practical experience and a solid understanding of accessibility principles are often more important.
How long does it take to become an accessibility analyst?
The time it takes to become an accessibility analyst can vary widely depending on your background and the path you choose.
If you already have a background in web development or a related field, you might be able to transition into an accessibility role within a few months by learning about accessibility guidelines and best practices.
If you’re starting from scratch, it may take several years of education and practical experience to develop the necessary skills.
Can I become an accessibility analyst without a degree?
Yes, it’s possible to become an accessibility analyst without a traditional degree.
Many employers value practical skills and experience over formal education.
You can learn about web accessibility through online courses, workshops, and self-study.
Building a portfolio demonstrating your understanding of accessibility principles and your ability to apply them in real-world scenarios can be a powerful way to showcase your skills to potential employers.
Is being an accessibility analyst a stressful job?
The level of stress in an accessibility analyst role can vary depending on the specific job and company.
The work can be challenging as it involves problem-solving, staying updated with evolving accessibility standards, and often advocating for accessibility within the organization.
However, many accessibility analysts find the work rewarding as they’re making a real difference in making the web more inclusive and accessible to all.
What are the prospects for accessibility analysts in the next decade?
The prospects for accessibility analysts look promising in the next decade.
As awareness of digital accessibility grows, the demand for professionals who understand and can implement accessibility standards is expected to increase.
This is further driven by legislation in many countries that requires digital services to be accessible to all, including people with disabilities.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Embarking on a journey to become an accessibility analyst is a substantial endeavor, but it’s unfailingly gratifying.
Equipped with the appropriate skills, education, and persistence, you’re set to make a considerable difference in the digital landscape.
Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the opportunities are boundless. Your contributions could spearhead the next significant development that revolutionizes how we access and interact with the digital world.
So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in learning. Network with industry professionals. And most crucially, never stop exploring the realm of digital accessibility.
Because the world is waiting for the inclusive digital environment you can help shape.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or progressing your career in accessibility analysis, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path efficiently.
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