UW Sets New Accessibility Policy for Technology Purchases

The University of Wyoming has adopted a policy that requires technology-based products and services bought by UW to have built-in accessibility for individuals with disabilities unless one of the limited exceptions to the policy applies. The policy takes effect Feb. 15.

The accessibility policy for technology purchases applies to purchases including, but not limited to, hardware and software products, and website design or maintenance. The policy contains guidance on how UW departments can evaluate the accessibility of technology products or services.

To be considered accessible, technology products or services must comply with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Examples of compliance include software that does not use flashing or blinking texts, and electronic forms that allow people who use assistive technologies to access the information.

Websites or Web-based content are accessible if they comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0, Level AA standards. Examples include ensuring there is a text equivalent for every non-text element and designing Web pages so that all information conveyed with color also is available without color.

The Office of General Counsel and the Office of Diversity and Employment Practices will offer training on the policy to UW employees Friday, Feb. 5, and Friday, Feb. 12, at 2 p.m. in the Senate Chambers, Room 221 of the Wyoming Union. Those interested can attend either session; no RSVP is required.

To view the policy, click here.

For more information, call Oneida Blagg, Americans with Disabilities Act coordinator, Employment Practices, at 766-6236.