Do you know what makes or breaks the accessibility credibility of your SaaS platforms, web tools, or mobile apps? The VPAT ACR is the one document you need to win big in this competitive market.
A Voluntary Product Accessibility Template VPAT and its result, the Accessibility Conformance Report ACR are crucial for organizations. Without these you cannot run your business with U.S. federal agencies, educational institutions or large enterprises. However, you should not look at VPAT writing as a formality. This technical and legal declaration requires accuracy.
Therefor so many companies turn to VPAT experts to get it done right.
Those who are preparing their first VPAT ACR or refining the existing accessibility documentation can take help from these five best practices. Follow along to make your report compliant and ready for scrutiny.
Use the Correct VPAT Edition and Version
Do not get confused and always choose the right edition for your VPAT report.
There are multiple versions of the VPAT for specific standards.
VPAT 2.5 Rev is the most current version as of 2025. It has different editions, such as:
Section 508 for U.S. federal
WCAG for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
EN 301 549 for EU standards
INT for International edition combining all the above
Do not select the wrong edition or use an outdated version. It will reduce your report’s credibility. It might even get rejected by the procurement team you are trying to impress.
Best practice: Always start your VPAT process by confirming which edition your client or target market requires.
Conduct a Real VPAT Assessment and Do not Guess
VPAT ACR is not a creative writing exercise. This should be a technical reflection of an actual VPAT accessibility testing.
VPAT based on assumptions or outdated internal documentation can put your organization at risk. Why prepare for lawsuits, when you can simply write a correct ACR with the following tests?
Test web interfaces with screen readers
Check mobile apps for keyboard accessibility
Evaluate PDFs for proper tagging and reading order
Check color contrast ratios
Test form fields, labels, and ARIA roles
You will need clear evidence in the ACR so make sure you thoroughly test each element of your ICT product.
Best practice: Partner with experienced accessibility professionals who perform hands-on testing across platforms and assistive technologies.
Write in Clear, Objective Language
Your VPAT ACR will be reviewed by procurement officers, legal teams and compliance managers.
So steer clear or vague language and use only official VPAT terminology.
Ensure each response is backed by a brief but specific explanation.
Be Transparent About the VPAT Accessibility Limitations
A VPAT that claims full compliance across the board often raises red flags. So do not aim for a perfect VPAT.
It is okay to admit where your product has accessibility limitations. Procurement teams appreciate honesty and action far more than unrealistic claims.
Tip: Include a clear status and explanation for each accessibility criterion even if that means admitting a feature needs work.
Keep the VPAT ACR Updated Over Time
Your product evolves when new features are released. Make sure your VPAT is updated after a new launch or compliance standard refresh.
Outdated ACRs can hurt your chances of landing contracts or renewing agreements. Worse, they can expose your company to legal risk if your accessibility claims no longer reflect reality.
Conclusion
Your VPAT is a reflection of your brand so make sure it is accurate and completely filled. Wrongly filled ACR can invite scrutiny, rejections and legal headaches.
If your team lacks in-house accessibility experts then may be it is time to bring in professionals. ADACP specializes in VPAT assessments and accessibility reporting. Their team stays updated with the latest VPAT editions, international standards, and accessibility testing best practices.