New IT Accessibility Policy evaluates accessibility standards of technology purchased by the University

A new policy at Ohio University is one of several recent steps in making OHIO’s online presence more accessible, ensuring an equal opportunity for all students to access technology and online tools related to their educational experience. In addition, the policy will enable the University to establish an information technology infrastructure that makes its online programs and services accessible to employees and community members.

Information Technology Accessibility Policy 04.001 was co-sponsored by the Office of Information Technology (OIT) and University Equity and Civil Rights Compliance (ECRC). Approved by the Executive Staff Policy Committee, the policy went into effect Aug. 17, 2017, and requires an initial review of any information technology, including software, hardware, and third party vendor software-as-a-service (SaaS), purchased by the University to determine the user groups and anticipated number of users. Those purchases deemed to be “high risk” (targeted users are more than 50 students and/or members of the public) will undergo an accessibility assessment. Departments making purchases not determined to be “high risk” will be responsible for providing content in an alternate format in a timely manner when requested by individuals living with disabilities who seek to participate in our academic programs and other services.

The assessment evaluates accessibility based on federal standards for information technology accessibility and is given a score. This review is built into the regular process any unit must complete through Procurement and Contract Services within the Division of Finance and Administration when purchasing new software, hardware or other technology, or renewing contracts for technology already being used. The policy is not retroactive – meaning that technology already purchased will not undergo a review, but is subject to review at the time of any contract or purchasing renewals.

For more information read the full Compass article.