Best-in-class manual accessibility audits

Generally, they refer to the same process—“accessibility audit” is the broader term, while “manual audit” emphasizes the expert, human-led evaluation (in contrast to purely automated scans).

– Accessibility audit: This is the broad term for evaluating a website’s accessibility. It covers both automated scans and human-led testing to help you meet standards like WCAG, Section 508, or ADA.
– Manual audit: This specifically refers to the expert, human-led evaluation. Unlike automated testing, a manual audit digs deeper into context and usability—assessing issues that require a human eye, such as meaningful alternative text, the logical structure of content, or complex interactive elements.

The timeline depends on several factors.

– Site size: Larger websites naturally require more time to assess each page thoroughly.
– Complexity: Sites with intricate navigation, interactive elements, or custom features may take longer to audit.
– Scope: A full audit covering every page will take more time than a focused audit on high-traffic or critical pages.

Typically, audits can range from a few days to several weeks. During the planning phase, we’ll provide you with a clear timeline tailored to your project’s needs, ensuring you know what to expect.

We’re here to help, but our approach is collaborative.

– In-house fixes: Many clients prefer to fix accessibility issues themselves. We empower your team with detailed reports, visual guides, and training materials so you can handle remediation confidently.
– Consultancy services: If you’d rather have expert hands-on support, Silktide offers consultancy services to guide your team through the remediation process. We’ll work with you to ensure that the fixes not only solve the issues but also integrate into your ongoing development process.

Our goal is to build your team’s capability in accessibility, ensuring long-term success.

No single measure offers complete legal immunity, but an audit is a vital risk-reduction tool.

– Due diligence: A thorough audit demonstrates that you’re actively working to meet accessibility standards such as ADA, Section 508, and UK/EU directives. This proactive approach can be a strong defense in legal or regulatory reviews.
– Ongoing remediation: The audit isn’t a one-off solution—it should be part of an ongoing commitment to accessibility. Regular audits and updates show that you’re dedicated to creating an inclusive digital experience.
– Best practices: While an audit helps reduce the risk of noncompliance, it’s important to understand that accessibility is an evolving field. Combining audits with employee training and continuous improvement processes is the best way to mitigate legal risks.

An accessibility audit is a key component in your overall strategy to manage legal risks and build a user-friendly website.

Silktide’s manual audits offer a comprehensive, human-centered approach.

– Expert evaluation: Our team of accessibility experts examines your site beyond the capabilities of automated tools, assessing usability, navigational flow, and context-sensitive content.
– Detailed reporting: You’ll receive a report that not only lists issues but explains why they matter, complete with recommendations.
– Actionable insights: The audit includes clear, practical advice to help your developers remediate issues effectively.
– Customized strategy: Every website is unique. Our manual audit adapts to your site’s specific needs, ensuring that the recommendations align with your business goals and technical constraints.