*AgendaDifference Between Accessibility, Accommodation, and Assistive TechnologyWhy Accessibility is Important Section 508 - The LawResources to Help with Procurements

*Definitions3 Important TermsThree important termsAll three start with AThey are NOT interchangeableAccessibilityAccommodationAssistive Technology

*AccessibilityAccessible design allows the use of assistive technology3 Important TermsFocuses on ensuring the E&IT can be accessed by persons with disabilitiesAn example would be ensuring that the agency time and attendance system works, so that persons accommodated with screen readers can successfully use the system to get paid

*AccommodationFocuses on the person, on providing needed technology to allow people to do their jobsAn example would be providing a screen reader to a visually impaired personAssistive Technology can be provided as an accommodation, but requires accessible E&IT to be useful required by Section 5083 Important Terms

*Assistive Technologyany item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities

Source of AT definition Assistive Technology Act of 1998(29U.S.C)3 Important Terms

Assistive Technology Model*ComputerUserATAssistive Technology fits between the user and the computer, addresses functional limitationsInputOutputBothAT can be focused on:

Section 508 Overview*

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act2000 amendment to Section 508 required Federal agencies to make EIT accessibleEnacted to:Eliminate barriers in information technologyMake available new opportunities for people with disabilitiesEncourage development of technologies that will help achieve these goalsSection 508 mandated GSA and the Access Board to provide technical assistance on the requirements of the law to Federal departments and agencies**

Why is Section 508 Important?It eliminates barriers for people with disabilitiesSupports Federal initiativesBenefits everyoneAchieves legal compliancePromotes positive public image Facilitates public access to Federal information

Its the law!*

Why is Section 508 Important?U.S. government spends $37 B+ per year on IT

Supports employment of people with disabilities

Improves public access to government IT services

Reduces the need for individual accommodations

Encourages improvements in accessible design

Increases availability of accessible products

Raises general awareness of disability issues and promotes societal change

Why Enforce the Law?Its the right thing to doAn agency can be sued Supports Federal and State initiativesPresidents Management AgendaNew Freedom InitiativeYOU have a vested interest

Do you have problems with:

Eye sightHearingWeightArthritisDiabetesSmokingHeartStomachLungsHigh Blood Pressure or CholesterolBack, knee, elbow or wrist ailments

Simulated Glaucoma

Simulated Macular Degeneration

It happens more often than you'd imagine Just over 1 in 4 of today's 20 year-olds will become disabled before they retire. (SSA)Over 36 million Americans are classified as disabled; about 12% of the total population. More than 50% of those disabled Americans are in their working years, from 18-64.(Census)8.3 million disabled wage earners, over 5% of U.S. workers, were receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits at the conclusion of March, 2011. (SSA)In December of 2010, there were over 2.5 million disabled workers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s receiving SSDI benefits. (SSA)

Disability StatisticsIn 2011, the overall percentage (prevalence rate) of working age people (ages 21 to 64) with a disability in the US was 10.5 percent.In other words, in 2011, 18,858,600 of the 180,037,400 individuals ages 21 to 64 in the US reported one or more disabilities.In the US in 2011, among the six types of disabilitiesidentified in the ACS, the highest prevalence rate was for "Ambulatory Disability," 5.5 percent. The lowest prevalence rate was "Visual Disability," 1.8 percent. www.disabilitystatistics.org

How Many Persons Benefit From Accessibility? 8 million who have difficulty seeing7 million who work for the government6.2 million who are in school systems10,198 who are deaf and blind, Over 56.7 million Americans are persons with disabilities!

Disability StatisticsDisability in AmericaMore than 30 million Americans between the ages of 21 and 64 are disabled, according to the most recent U.S. Census. 2.3 million people filed disability claims with Social Security in 2008.25+ million American lives are restricted by the effects of disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Section 508 Standard Subpart A General

Subpart B Technical provisions

Subpart C Functional performance criteriaDisabilities addressed: hearing, speech, vision, dexterity. mobility

Subpart D Documentation and support

Dissecting the LawSubpart B consists of standards for:Software applications/operating systemsWeb-based information and applicationsTelecommunication productsVideo and multimedia productsSelf-contained, closed productsDesktop and portable computers

Dissecting the LawSubpart CTechnologies or components for which there is no specific requirement under the technical standards in Subpart BCovers operation, including input and control functions, operation of mechanisms, and access to visual and audible informationSubpart DConsists of information, documentation and supportRequires manufacturer upon request, to provide compliant electronic text for all documentation associated with the product

Types of Products Covered Software applications and operating systems

Web-based Intranet and Internet information and applications

Telecommunications productsVideo and multimedia products

Self contained, closed products

Desktop and portable computers

First Cell Phone - 1973

First Portable Computer - 1981

First Website - 1991

What does Section 508 Apply To?*Section 508 applies to ALL EIT contract vehicles and procurement actions, including micro-purchases.All EIT that is procured, maintained, developed, or used Note: Section 508 accessible documentation and support should be included in every solicitation since all deliverables are in electronic format even if it is not an EIT contract.

Who does Section 508 Apply To?Section 508 applies to the Federal Government and the US Postal Service*

Requiring Authority ResponsibilitiesDetermine Section 508 applicabilityIdentify Section 508 requirements and include in SOWConducting market research Coordinate with:IT Specialist to: Identify 508 applicability and accessibility requirementsIT Testers to: Identify inspection and acceptance criteria for deliverablesProgram Management to: Determine proposal evaluation factorsContracting Officers to: Ensure that accessibility requirements, inspection and acceptance criteria, and evaluation factors are appropriately represented in the solicitationParticipate in proposal evaluation

Contracting Officer ResponsibilitiesEnsuring that the Requiring Authority :Properly identifies Section 508 technical requirementsConducts market researchDocuments Section 508 due diligence (BAW)Ensure that requirements, inspection and acceptance criteria and evaluation factors are appropriately represented in the solicitationParticipates in proposal evaluation Makes sure the solicitation is in an accessible format

IT/CIO ResponsibilitiesIT/CIO is responsible for:Identifying current needs for IT purchases

IT/CIO may coordinate with Requiring Authority to:Identify applicability and Section 508 technical requirementsDetermine inspection and acceptance criteria for deliverablesDetermine program evaluation factorsConducting accessibility testing

Agency EIT Developers ResponsibilitiesAgency EIT Developers (internal to agency) are responsible for ensuring compliance with Section 508, including:Determining Section 508 applicabilityIdentifying accessibility requirementsIdentifying inspection and acceptance criteria for deliverables

Developing SoftwareMost Section 508 standards are simply good old coding practicesAlways code to the standards and not the accessibility tools (e.g., JAWS, Dragon Naturally Speaking)Currently, there are no tools designed to evaluate software automatically

Developing SoftwareIf JAWS can read a program, that is no guarantee that it is compliantIf JAWS cannot read a program, that is no guarantee that it has deficienciesFew sighted people have sufficient expertise with JAWS to use it as an evaluation tool

Developing SoftwareAllow sufficient time to correct 508 deficiencies and still meet the schedule for productionRemember the Contracting Officer is the only person who can authorize changes to a contractContractor is responsible for ensuring compliance until the Government accepts the system

Web DevelopmentMost visible 508 areaboth internally and with customersThe more complex and fancy a site, the more difficult it may be to make compliantThis does not imply that you have to dummy down the site

Web DevelopmentWeb products must comply not only with Section 508, but also any other standards and formats prescribed by the agencys webmasterNo matter what the requirements are to post a web document, Section 508 has priority since it is a law

Web DevelopmentSeveral tools exist for web evaluations, although differing tools sometimes yield differing resultsDo not rely on the tools as the final determining factor for complianceAlways use at least two different evaluation tools, one of which should be the tool that the Webmaster uses

*Testing PrinciplesDO 508 standards-based testingDO NOT do testing based on Assistive TechnologyHave reliable test resultsDocument your proceduresHave easy to use testing toolsDocument your resultsBe able to be repeatable by other testers

What Makes a Successful ProgramWhere program is located within organizationDedicated 508 Coordinator (not 5%)Need for strong policies & proceduresResources required (FTE or contract support)Building relationships with stakeholdersIT governance bodies/processesIT procurement/acquisition (508 requirements, etc)Testing/remediation capabilities (or access to)Training/outreach*

Section 508 PolicySection 508 Strategic PlanExceptionsSection 508 RefreshFARSection 508 AssessmentsEvaluation CriteriaVPATS/GPATSMicro PurchasesBuy Accessible Wizard Tool

*

Strategic PlanJanuary 2013, the White House released: Strategic Plan for Improving Management of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.Federal agencies must appoint a 508 coordinatorFederal agencies must post an accessibility statement on their websiteFederal agencies must submit assess their 508 program and submit a reportFederal government will refresh their 508 learning modules

Section 508 ExceptionsNational SecurityAny EIT operated by agencies, the function, operation, or use of which involves intelligence activities, cryptologic activities related to national security, command and control of military forces, equipment that is an integral part of a weapon or weapons system, or systems which are critical to the direct fulfillment of military or intelligence missions. Systems which are critical to the direct fulfillment of military or intelligence missions do not include a system that is to be used for routine administrative and business applications (including payroll, finance, logistics, and personnel management applications). *

Section 508 ExceptionsIncidental to a Contract:This part does not apply to electronic and information technology that is acquired by a contractor incidental to a contract. Back Office:Products located in spaces frequented only by service personnel for maintenance, repair, or occasional monitoring of equipment are not required to comply with this part*

Information, Documentation & SupportThe standards also address access to all information, documentation, and support provided to end users (e.g., Federal employees) of covered technologies. This includes user guides, installation guides for end-user installable devices, and customer support and technical support communications. Such information must be available in alternate formats upon request at no additional charge.NOTE: This should be included in every solicitation whether or not it is EIT

*

Section 508 Refresh 255 guidelines effective (1998)508 standards effective (2001)2 ANPRMs for commentsDevelop regulatory assessment (2012-13)OMB July 2013Publish NPRM for comments Fall/Winter 2013Final rule*

FAR Part 39.2 Acquisition of EIT states:When acquiring EIT, agencies must ensure that (1) Federal employees with disabilities have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to the access and use by Federal employees who are not individuals with disabilities; and (2) Members of the public with disabilities seeking information or services from an agency have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to the access to and use of information and data by members of the public who are not individuals with disabilities.

*

VPATS and GPATSWhat is a VPAT?Voluntary Product Accessibility TemplateIndustry created formWho uses it?

What is a GPAT?Government Product Accessibility TemplateOutput from BAWHow is it used?*

Micro PurchasesSection 508 still applies!Still have to do market researchPurchases under $3000Usually with a Credit CardCan use the Buy Accessible WizardCan use the Quick Links

*

FBOGenerate FeedbackConsolidate MetricsApply Assessment CriteriaCABA SampleAccess Board Standard CFR 1194FAR Parts 7, 10, 11, and 39Agency POCGSA /OMBSolicitation listingsSelected EIT SolicitationAssessed EIT SolicitationFeedback LetterQuarterly ReportEIT Solicitation MetricsStartEndSolicitation Assessment Process

**Solicitation Assessment Progress From Inception to Date

Chart1

0.0650.1030.831

0.0740.1730.753

0.1540.3170.528

0.210.2250.565

0.230.210.56

0.230.170.6

0.24637681160.22463768120.5289855072

Green

Yellow

Red

Solicitation Assessment Progress(FY07, FY08, FY09, FY10, FY11, and FY12)

Monthly roll up

Time PeriodTotal SolicitationsTotal Solicitations Evaluated% Fully Compliant% Minimally Compliant% Non-CompliantTotal SolicitationsTotal Solicitations Evaluated% Fully Compliant% Minimally Compliant% Non-Compliantupdated

October 20124403435%15%50%October 20124403412517November 6, 2012

November 20124003219%28%53%November 2012400326917December 7, 2012

December 20123603222%22%56%December 2012360327718January 9, 2013

January 20134204023%25%53%January 20134204091021February 11, 2013

February 2013000%0%0%February 20130

March 2013000%0%0%March 20130

April 2013000%0%0%April 20130

May 2013000%0%0%May 20130

June 2013000%0%0%June 20130

July 2013000%0%0%July 20130

August 2013000%0%0%August 20130

September 2013000%0%0%September 20130

FY 2013 (1st Quarter)16209826%21%53%FY 2013 (1st Quarter)162098252152

FY 2013 (2nd Quarter)4204023%25%53%FY 2013 (2nd Quarter)4204091021

FY 2013 (3rd Quarter)000%0%0%FY 2013 (3rd Quarter)00000

FY 2013 (4th Quarter)000%0%0%FY 2013 (4th Quarter)00000

FY 2013 (Year to Date)162013825%22%53%FY 2013 (Year to Date)1620138343173

FY 2012481060823%18%60%FY 20124810608138107363

FY 2011466161123%21%56%FY 20114661611141129341

FY 2010339852421%23%56%FY 20103398524110118296

FY 2009197535615%32%53%FY 2009197535655113188

FY 200827925037%17%75%FY 200827925033787379

FY 200721522617%10%83%FY 200721522611727217

Inception to Date21408300118%20%62%Inception to Date2140830015326121857

prior to FY131978828634985811784

FY 2013 (1st Half)204013825%22%53%FY 2013 (1st Half)2040138343173

FY 2013 (2nd Half)000%0%0%FY 2013 (2nd Half)00000

FY Comparison

Combined

FY07FY08FY09FY10FY11FY12FY13FY13 data through October 2012

Green7%7%15%21%23%23%25%

Yellow10%17%32%23%21%17%22%

Red83%75%53%57%56%60%53%

Total E&IT100%100%100%100%100%100%100%

% Y-G17%25%47%44%44%40%47%

FY Comparison

Green

Yellow

Red

Solicitation Assessment Progress(FY07, FY08, FY09, FY10, FY11, and FY12)

FY2011 Comparison

Green

Section 508 Compliance(FY07 through FY13)

Sheet1

Combined

FY11 Q1&2FY11 Q3&4FY11FY11 data through September 2011

Green32%18%23%

Yellow22%20%21%

Red46%62%56%

Total E&IT100%100%100%

% Y-G0%54%38%0%44%0%

Sheet1

Solicitation Assessment Progress(FY07, FY08, FY09, FY10 and FY11)

Combined

FY07FY08FY09FY10FY11Q1&Q2 FY11Q3&Q4 FY11FY11 data through September 2011

Green7%7%15%21%25%32%18%

Yellow10%17%32%23%22%

Red83%75%53%57%53%

Total E&IT100%100%100%100%100%18%

% Y-G17%25%47%44%47%100%

Green

Section 508 Compliance(FY07, FY08, FY09, FY10 and FY11)

0.0650.1030.831

0.0740.1730.753

0.1540.3170.528

0.210.2250.565

0.230.210.56

0.230.170.6

Green

Yellow

Red

Solicitation Assessment Progress(FY07, FY08, FY09, FY10 and FY11)

Budget cut impacted program

*How long can you wait for Section 508 Compliance?

Lets take a break!*

Buy AccessibleWhat is it?Who should use it?How can it help?Market ResearchHow do I get started?FeaturesWhere do I get training?*

What is the Buy Accessible Wizard?The Buy Accessible Wizard is a web-based tool that:Guides users through the acquisition process, gathering data and providing information about Electronic and Information Technology (EIT) and Section 508 complianceCompiles a running summary documenting the process and its resultsThe Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) has access to vendor provided accessibility information*

Who Should Use the BA Wizard?Requirements Officials responsible for writing SOW and providing requirements for the procurementTechnical specialists (IT) - determine IT requirementsMicro purchasers (IT) with government purchase cardsAnyone else involved in the procurement processWho are the Gate KeepersProcurement officials responsible for monitoring procurements and regulations (gate keeper)Contract officers responsible for the contract award process (gate keeper)Contract Specialists responsible for preparing RFQ/RFP*

How Can the Wizard Help Your Agency?Standardize the acquisition process by documenting your procedures to demonstrate due diligence

Market Research recording within the tool

Tailor your solicitations by ensuring there is specific Section 508 language and technical requirements in solicitations that include EIT *

Market Research Why do it?Its FAR RequirementIts used to gauge the state of the EIT industry in meeting your requirements with products and servicesMethod for identifying products that claim to meet section 508 requirements*

Getting Started with the WizardAnyone can log in as a Guest user No ID or password required Can save or print output Can restart process

*

BAW Features Supplemental Guides for post-solicitation support:GPAT: indicates how proposed solution addresses the applicable Section 508 requirementsEvaluation Guide: helps to evaluate various proposals based on commercial availability of applicable provisions as determined by the wizard. (pre filled)Acceptance Guide: evaluate acquisition deliverables against applicable provisions as determined by the Wizard, based on generally accepted inspection and/or test methods. Design Guide: Provides qualified development resources

*

Section 508 BAW Quick Links*

Why Quick Links?Some buyers are in a hurry.Some buyers know exactly what they want.Some buyers dont want to take the time to learn about Section 508.

Just get me to the bottom line and fast!

*

What are Quick LinksInputs are common and standard deliverables (products and services)Current outputs are solicitation documents associated with these deliverables.

*

Quick Links Currently Provide:Standard definition of the deliverableGPAT: Technical standards (Subpart B)Functional performance criteria (Subpart C)Information, documentation and support (Subpart D)Solicitation language: Section 508 Program Need (Section B)Section 508 Product Requirements (Section C)Section 508 Evaluation Factors (Section M) Section 508 Acceptance Criteria (Section E) *

*

Be Our Guest for a Test DriveWe invite you to test drive the Buy Accessible Wizard

To access the Buy Accessible Wizard go to: http://www.buyaccessible.gov *

*Its the BLOB!!!!!! No, its the new Section 508 http://buyaccessible.net/blogBlog

Stop by and take a look!

Big PictureSection 508 should ultimately become transparent and simply part of doing businessInteragency support/collaboration needs to improveNeed for a more cohesive 508 CommunityNeed to improve ability to share 508 results/resources (test results, training, procedures, etc)*

Resourceswww.section508.govwww.buyaccessible.govwww.access-board.govWeb Accessibility Evaluation and Repair Tools:http://www.w3.org/WAI/ER/tools/Specifications for Accessible Learning Technologies: http://ncam.wgbh.org/salt/guidelines/ National AIM Center: http://aim.cast.org/ IBM web accessibility checklist: http://www-03.ibm.com/able/guidelines/web/accessweb.html George Mason University Assistive Technology Initiative: http://accessibility.gmu.edu/webaccessibility/docs/Appendix%20B%20-%20accessibility%20checklist.pdf WebAIM: http://webaim.org

*

Questions?

Buy Accessible Wizard Demo*

Thank youContact Information:

Helen Chamberlain helen.chamberlain@gsa.gov

*

Additional Slides*

*General Services AdministrationPolicy, the Procurement Process, the Buy Accessible Wizard, and Purchasing Section 508 Conformant Products & ServicesHelen ChamberlainGovernmentwide Section 508 Program DirectorOffice of Governmentwide PolicyAgendaDifference Between Accessibility, Accommodation, and Assistive TechnologyWhy Accessibility is Important Section 508 - The LawResources to Help with Procurements

*(3 Important Terms)DefinitionsThree important termsAll three start with AThey are NOT interchangeableAccessibilityAccommodationAssistive Technology*(3 Important Terms)AccessibilityFocuses on ensuring the E&IT can be accessed by persons with disabilities.An example would be ensuring that the agency time and attendance system works, so that persons accommodated with screen readers can successfully use the system to get paid.Accessible design allows the use of assistive technology.

According to the World Health Organization: Every five seconds, one person in the world goes blind. A child goes blind every minute. Over seven million become blind each year. During the next 10 years, with a growing and aging population, these numbers will double.

*(3 Important Terms)AccommodationFocuses on the person, on providing needed technology to allow people to do their jobsAn example would be providing a screen reader to a visually impaired personAssistive Technology can be provided as an accommodation, but requires accessible E&IT to be useful required by Section 508

**(3 Important Terms)Assistive Technologyany item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities

Source of AT definition is Assistive Technology Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 3001 et seq.)

Assistive Technology ModelGraphic Description: A graphic shows two blocks, one labeled User and the other labeled Computer. Between the two blocks, a double headed arrow labeled AT for (assistive technology) appears. This is meant to show that assistive technology helps users get information into, and from, the computer.Slide text: Assistive Technology fits between the user and the computer, addresses functional limitationsAT can be focused on: input, output, or both.

*Section 508 Overview*Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act

2000 amendment to Section 508 required Federal agencies to make EIT accessibleEnacted to:Eliminate barriers in information technologyMake available new opportunities for people with disabilitiesEncourage development of technologies that will help achieve these goalsSection 508 mandated GSA and the Access Board to provide technical assistance on the requirements of the law to Federal departments and agenciesEncourage development of technologies that will help achieve these goalsSection 508 mandated GSA and the Access Board to provide technical assistance on the requirements of the law to Federal departments and agencies**Why is Section 508 Important?Eliminates barriers for people with disabilitiesSupports Federal initiativesBenefits everyoneAchieves legal compliancePromotes positive public image and facilitates public access to Federal information

Its the law!

Why is Section 508 Important?U.S. government spends $37 B+ per year on IT

Supports employment of people with disabilities

Improves public access to government IT services

Reduces the need for individual accommodations

Encourages improvements in accessible design

Increases availability of accessible products

Raises general awareness of disability issues and promotes societal change

*Why Enforce the Law?Its the right thing to doAn agency can be sued Supports Federal and State initiativesPresidents Management AgendaNew Freedom InitiativeYOU have a vested interest

*Do you have problems with:Eye sightHearingWeightArthritisDiabetesSmokingHeartStomachLungsHigh Blood Pressure or CholesterolBack, knee, elbow or wrist ailments

*Slide 55Simulated Glaucoma(Image of standard size photo is normal in very center and gets darker toward edges)*Slide 56Simulated Macular Degeneration(Image of standard size photo is black in very center and gets lighter towards outer edges where the image appears normal)

*It happens more often than you'd imagine Just over 1 in 4 of today's 20 year-olds will become disabled before they retire. (SSA)Over 36 million Americans are classified as disabled; about 12% of the total population. More than 50% of those disabled Americans are in their working years, from 18-64.(Census)8.3 million disabled wage earners, over 5% of U.S. workers, were receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits at the conclusion of March, 2011. (SSA)In December of 2010, there were over 2.5 million disabled workers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s receiving SSDI benefits. (SSA)

*Disability StatisticsIn 2011, the overall percentage (prevalence rate) of working age people (ages 21 to 64) with a disability in the US was 10.5 percent.In other words, in 2011, 18,858,600 of the 180,037,400 individuals ages 21 to 64 in the US reported one or more disabilities.In the US in 2011, among the six types of disabilitiesidentified in the ACS, the highest prevalence rate was for "Ambulatory Disability," 5.5 percent. The lowest prevalence rate was "Visual Disability," 1.8 percent. www.disabilitystatistics.org

**Slide 7How many persons benefit from accessibility8 million who have difficulty seeing7 million who work for the government6.2 million who are in school systems10,198 who are deaf and blind, Over 56.7 million Americans are persons with disabilities!

Disability StatisticsDisability in AmericaMore than 30 million Americans between the ages of 21 and 64 are disabled, according to the most recent U.S. Census. 2.3 million people filed disability claims with Social Security in 2008.25+ million American lives are restricted by the effects of disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

*Section 508 Standard Subpart A General

Subpart B Technical provisions

Subpart C Functional performance criteriaDisabilities addressed: hearing, speech, vision, dexterity. mobility

Subpart D Documentation and support

*Dissecting the LawSubpart B consists of standards for:Software applications/operating systemsWeb-based information and applicationsTelecommunication productsVideo and multimedia productsSelf-contained, closed productsDesktop and portable computers

*Dissecting the LawSubpart CTechnologies or components for which there is no specific requirement under the technical standards in Subpart BCovers operation, including input and control functions, operation of mechanisms, and access to visual and audible informationSubpart DConsists of information, documentation and supportRequires manufacturer upon request, to provide compliant electronic text for all documentation associated with the product

*Types of Products Covered Software applications and operating systems

Web-based Intranet and Internet information and applications

Telecommunications products

Video and multimedia products

Self contained, closed products

Desktop and portable computers

*Picture of a man holding the first cell phone in 1973*Picture of the first portable computer in 1981*Picture of the first website in 1991

**Section 508 applies to ALL contract vehicles and procurement actions, including micro-purchases.All EIT that is procured, maintained, developed, or used Note: Section 508 accessible documentation and support should be included in every solicitation since all deliverables are in electronic format even if it is not an EIT contract.

*Who does Section 508 Apply To?Section 508 applies to the Federal Government and the US Postal Service

Requiring Authority Responsibilities Requiring Authority (PMO/COTR) is responsible for:Determining Section 508 applicabilityIdentifying accessibility requirementsConducting market researchRequiring Authority (PMO/COTR) must coordinate with:IT Specialist to identify 508 applicability and accessibility requirementsIT Specialist (or Testing Capability) to identify inspection and acceptance criteria for deliverablesProgram Management to determine proposal evaluation factorsContracting Officers to:Ensure that accessibility requirements, inspection and acceptance criteria, and evaluation factors are appropriately represented in the solicitationParticipate in proposal evaluation Program Management and/or Testing Capability to conduct deliverable acceptance and inspection

*Contracting Officer Responsibilities Ensuring that the Requiring Authority :Properly identifies Section 508 technical requirementsConducts market researchDocuments Section 508 due diligence (BAW)Ensure that requirements, inspection and acceptance criteria and evaluation factors are appropriately represented in the solicitationParticipates in proposal evaluation Makes sure the solicitation is in an accessible format*IT/CIO ResponsibilitiesIT/CIO is responsible for:Identifying current needs for IT purchases

IT/CIO may coordinate with Requiring Authority to:Identify applicability and Section 508 technical requirementsDetermine inspection and acceptance criteria for deliverablesDetermine program evaluation factorsConducting accessibility testing*Agency IT Developers Responsibilities Agency EIT Developers (internal to agency) are responsible for ensuring compliance with Section 508, including:Determining Section 508 applicabilityIdentifying accessibility requirementsIdentifying inspection and acceptance criteria for deliverables*Developing SoftwareMost Section 508 standards are simply good old coding practicesAlways code to the standards and not the accessibility tools (e.g., JAWS, Dragon Naturally Speaking)Currently, there are no tools designed to evaluate software automatically

*Developing SoftwareIf JAWS can read a program, that is no guarantee that it is compliantIf JAWS cannot read a program, that is no guarantee that it has deficienciesFew sighted people have sufficient expertise with JAWS to use it as an evaluation tool

*Developing SoftwareAllow sufficient time to correct 508 deficiencies and still meet the schedule for productionRemember the Contracting Officer is the only person who can authorize changes to a contractContractor is responsible for ensuring compliance until the Government accepts the system

*Web DevelopmentMost visible 508 areaboth internally and with customersThe more complex and fancy a site, the more difficult it may be to make compliantThis does not imply that you have to dummy down the site

*Web DevelopmentWeb products must comply not only with Section 508, but also any other standards and formats prescribed by the agencys webmasterNo matter what the requirements are to post a web document, Section 508 has priority since it is a law

*Web DevelopmentSeveral tools exist for web evaluations, although differing tools sometimes yield differing resultsDo not rely on the tools as the final determining factor for complianceAlways use at least two different evaluation tools, one of which should be the tool that the Webmaster uses

*Testing Principles DO 508 standards-based testingDO NOT do testing based on Assistive TechnologyHave reliable test resultsDocument your proceduresHave easy to use testing toolsDocument your resultsBe able to be repeatable by other testers*What Makes a Successful Program Where program is located within organizationDedicated 508 Coordinator (not 5%)Need for strong policies & proceduresResources required (FTE/contract support)Building relationships with stakeholdersIT governance bodies/processesIT procurement/acquisition (508 requirements, MR, etc)Testing/remediation capabilities (or access to)Training/outreach

*Section 508 Policy ExceptionsSection 508 RefreshFARSection 508 AssessmentsEvaluation CriteriaVPATS/GPATSMicro PurchasesBuy Accessible Wizard Tool*Strategic PlanJanuary 2013, the White House released: Strategic Plan for Improving Management of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.Federal agencies must appoint a 508 coordinatorFederal agencies must post an accessibility statement on their websiteFederal agencies must submit assess their 508 program and submit a reportFederal government will refresh their 508 learning modules

*Section 508 ExceptionsNational SecurityAny EIT operated by agencies, the function, operation, or use of which involves intelligence activities, cryptologic activities related to national security, command and control of military forces, equipment that is an integral part of a weapon or weapons system, or systems which are critical to the direct fulfillment of military or intelligence missions. Systems which are critical to the direct fulfillment of military or intelligence missions do not include a system that is to be used for routine administrative and business applications (including payroll, finance, logistics, and personnel management applications).

*Section 508 ExceptionsIncidental to a Contract:This part does not apply to electronic and information technology that is acquired by a contractor incidental to a contract. Back Office:Products located in spaces frequented only by service personnel for maintenance, repair, or occasional monitoring of equipment are not required to comply with this part

*Information, Documentation & SupportThe standards also address access to all information, documentation, and support provided to end users (e.g., Federal employees) of covered technologies. This includes user guides, installation guides for end-user installable devices, and customer support and technical support communications. Such information must be available in alternate formats upon request at no additional charge.NOTE: This should be included in every solicitation whether or not it is EIT

*Section 508 Refresh 255 guidelines effective (1998)

255 guidelines effective (1998)508 standards effective (2001)2 ANPRMs for commentsDevelop regulatory assessment (2012-13)OMB July 2013Publish NPRM for comments Fall/Winter 2013Final rule*FAR Part 39 Acquisition of IT states When acquiring EIT, agencies must ensure that (1) Federal employees with disabilities have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to the access and use by Federal employees who are not individuals with disabilities; and (2) Members of the public with disabilities seeking information or services from an agency have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to the access to and use of information and data by members of the public who are not individuals with disabilities.

*VPATS and GPATSVoluntary Product Accessibility Template used by industryGovernment Product Accessibility Template used by the Federal GovernmentHow are they used?Templates are used to access the accessibility compliance.*Micro PurchasesSection 508 still applies!Still have to do market researchPurchases under $3000Usually with a Credit CardCan use the Buy Accessible WizardCan use the Quick Links*Graphic of the stages of the solicitation assessment process: CABA Sample, Apply Assessment Criteria, Generate Feedback, and Consolidate Metrics.

***Chart showing how well Federal Agencies are doing in the implementation of Section 508. Red, yellow and green letters were sent to a sampling of agencies solicitations taken from the Federal Register over the shown period. This is an on-going process throughout the fiscal year.

This chart depicts the year to year progress of sampled Federal Agency solicitations relative to inclusion of Section 508 language for EIT deliverables. Data covers government fiscal years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 through January 2013. Each year is represented by a vertical bar separated into Green, Yellow and Red sections which depict the percentage of Section 508 compliance relative to the solicitations assessed that year. Green represents a high level of compliance, Yellow represents a minimal level of compliance and Red represents no compliance.

In 2007, 6.5% of solicitations were Green, 10.3% Yellow and 83.1% Red. In 2008, 7.4% of solicitations were Green, 17.3% Yellow and 75.3% Red. In 2009, 15.4% of 31.7% Yellow and 52.8% Red. In 2010, 21.0% were Green, 22.5% were Yellow and 56.5% were Red. In 2011, 23% Green, 21% Yellow and 56% Red. In 2012, 23% Green, 17% Yellow and 60% Red. A noticeable improvement in solicitation compliance is observed with Green scores increasing from 6.5% to 23.0% from 2007 2012 and Red scores decreasing from 83.1% to 60.0% over the same time period. To date in 2013, 23.8% are Green, 21.7% are Yellow and 54.5% are Red.How Long can you wait for Section 508 CompliancePicture of three men, one young, one old, and one skeleton*Lets take a break!*Buy Accessible What is it?Who should use it?How can it help?Market ResearchHow do I get started?Updated featuresWhere do I get training?

**What is the Buy Accessible Wizard?The Buy Accessible Wizard is a web-based tool that:Guides users through the acquisition process, gathering data and providing information about electronic and information technology (E&IT) and Section 508 complianceCompiles a running summary documenting the process and its resultsThe Buy Accessible Products and Services DirectoryAccess to vendor provided accessibility informationThe Buy Accessible System makes compliance with the requirements of Section 508 as easy and thorough as possible

*Who Should Use the Wizard?Requirements Officials responsible for providing requirements for the procurementTechnical specialists (IT) - determine IT requirementsMicro purchasers (IT) with government purchase cardsProcurement officials responsible for monitoring procurements and regulations (gate keeper)Contract Specialists responsible for preparing RFQ/RFPContract officers responsible for the contract award process (gate keeper)Anyone else involved in the procurement process

*How Can the Wizard Help Your Agency?Standardize the process you use for each acquisition. Document your procedures to demonstrate due diligence Maximize market research. Use vendor-supplied accessibility information about the commercial availability of accessible EIT products and services prior to solicitation. Tailor your solicitations. Ensure there is specific Section 508 language in each solicitation that includes EIT. Require accessibility information. Document accessibility as a factor in source selectionDocument accessibility as a factor in inspection and acceptance

*Market Research Why do it?FAR RequirementUsed to gauge the state of the E&IT industry in meeting your requirements with products and servicesMethod for identifying products that claim to meet section 508 requirements

Getting StartedAnyone can log in as a Guest user No ID or password required Can save or print output Can restart process

**BAW FeaturesSupplemental Guides for post-solicitation support:GPAT: indicates how proposed solution addresses the applicable Section 508 requirementsEvaluation Guide: helps to evaluate various proposals based on commercial availability of applicable provisions as determined by the wizard. (pre filled)Acceptance Guide: evaluate acquisition deliverables against applicable provisions as determined by the Wizard, based on generally accepted inspection and/or test methods.

Section 508 BAW Quick Links*Why Quick Links?Some buyers are in a hurry.Some buyers know exactly what they want.Some buyers dont want to take the time to learn about Section 508.

Just get me to the bottom line and fast!

*What are Quick LinksInputs are common and standard deliverables (products and services)Current outputs are solicitation documents associated with these deliverables.Initial deliverables were selected with input from Section 508 coordinators and BuyAccessible staffCurrently being validated by a Focus Group of expert federal staff

*Quick Links Currently ProvideStandard definition of the deliverableStandard product codes (UNSPC for now)GPAT: Technical standards (Subpart B)Functional performance criteria (Subpart C)Information, documentation and support (Subpart D)Solicitation language: Section 508 Program Need (Section B)Section 508 Product Requirements (Section C)Section 508 Evaluation Factors (Section M) Section 508 Acceptance Criteria (Section E)

**A screen shot of the Buy Accessible Wizard Tutorial home page.*Be Our Guest for a Test DriveWe invite you to test drive the Buy Accessible Wizard Release 3 To access the Buy Accessible Wizard Release 3 go to: http://www.buyaccessible.gov/ and use the Guest User login

Its the BLOB!!!!! No, its the new Section 508 Bloghhtp://buyaccessible.net/blog Stop by and take a lookMovie poster of the BLOB movie with man holding club with a gooey blob on it.*Big Picture 508 should ultimately become transparent and simply part of doing businessInteragency support/collaboration needs to improveNeed for a more cohesive 508 CommunityNeed to improve ability to share 508 results/resources (test results, training, etc)

*Resourceswww.section508.govwww.buyaccessible.govwww.access-board.govWeb Accessibility Evaluation and Repair Tools:http://www.w3.org/WAI/ER/tools/Specifications for Accessible Learning Technologies: http://ncam.wgbh.org/salt/guidelines/ National AIM Center: http://aim.cast.org/ IBM web accessibility checklist: http://www-03.ibm.com/able/guidelines/web/accessweb.html George Mason University Assistive Technology Initiative: http://accessibility.gmu.edu/webaccessibility/docs/Appendix%20B%20-%20accessibility%20checklist.pdf WebAIM: http://webaim.org

**Cat with computer mouse in dangling in mouthBuy Accessible Wizard Demo**Thank youContact InformationHelen Chamberlain helen.chamberlain@gsa.gov

Additional Slides**Slide 1034-44 yearsFunctional Limitation 13.4%Severe Limitation is 3%*Slide 1145-54 yearsFunctional Limitation 23%Severe Limitation is 6%

*Slide 1255-64 yearsFunctional Limitation 34.2%Severe Limitation is 12%

Slide 1365-69 yearsFunctional Limitation 45.4%Severe Limitation is 18.5%

*Slide 1470-74 yearsFunctional Limitation 55.3%Severe Limitation is 22%

*Slide 15 75 plus yearsFunctional Limitation 72.5%Severe Limitation is 41%

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