Filling the Gap in Database Usability

Putting Vendor Accessibility Compliance to the Test

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v39i4.11977

Abstract

Library database vendors often revamp simpler interfaces of their database platforms with script-enriched interfaces to make them more attractive. Sadly, these enhancements often overlook users who rely on assistive technology, leaving electronic content difficult for this user base despite the potential of electronic materials to be easier for them to access and read than print materials. Even when providers are somewhat aware of this user group's needs there are questions about the effect of their efforts to date and whether accessibility documentation from them can be relied upon. This study examines selected vendors’ VPAT reports (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) through a manual assessment of their database platforms to determine their overall accessibility.

Author Biography

Samuel Kent Willis, Wichita State University

I am Assistant Professor and Technology Development Librarian at Wichita State University, and part of the Library Technologies Unit within the University Libraries.

References

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Published

2020-12-21

How to Cite

Willis, S. K., & O’Reilly, F. (2020). Filling the Gap in Database Usability: Putting Vendor Accessibility Compliance to the Test. Information Technology and Libraries, 39(4). https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v39i4.11977

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Articles