Hardware & Kiosk Accessibility Testing
Accessibility evaluation for kiosks and connected devices.
CompliCorp evaluates the accessibility of kiosks, hardware interfaces, and connected ICT products. Testing considers both the software interface and how people interact with the device’s controls, output, and available accessibility features.
Testing and delivery
Hardware, kiosk, and ICT accessibility evaluation
We review the device specification, operating environment, and customer requirements before defining the evaluation. The scope identifies the configuration, tasks, physical interactions, and technical provisions to be tested. We also confirm whether testing requires an onsite visit, a shipped device, or additional specialist support.
Standards and reporting
WCAG criteria may apply to parts of a device interface, while hardware requires additional evaluation. For federal procurement, we identify the applicable Revised Section 508 provisions. This service does not substitute for a building or facility accessibility survey.
Standards references: W3C WCAG overview · U.S. Access Board Section 508 standards · ITI VPAT resources
Planning the next step
Coordinate hardware evaluation with Section 508 testing and ACR reporting when a buyer requests evidence for an ICT product. Include support materials in the scope.
Scope of work
- Touchscreen workflows, physical controls, and available input methods
- Labels, instructions, visual information, and audible feedback
- Operation of accessibility features and assistive technology connections
- Relevant Section 508 hardware provisions within the agreed scope
- Product configuration and evidence for accessibility reporting
Your proposal identifies the standards, test coverage, deliverables, and exclusions. Reports describe the evaluated product version and the work performed.
Evaluate the device and its complete interaction
A kiosk evaluation needs more than a scan of its screen. We identify the device configuration, input controls, output, assistive features, software workflows, and supporting instructions. The testing plan specifies which functions and applicable provisions are included.
Provide specifications, photographs, operating instructions, and the buyer's requirements. We then confirm whether evaluation requires a shipped unit, on-site access, or specialist support. This is an ICT product evaluation; a facility or building accessibility survey is a different service.
Connect product findings to the documentation buyers request
The findings identify the device and configuration assessed, observed barriers, and recommendations for the responsible hardware and software teams. For federal work, coordinate the evaluation with Section 508 testing, including relevant documentation and support provisions.
If a buyer requires an Accessibility Conformance Report, include the edition, reporting scope, and any retesting in the proposal. A material change to the hardware, software, or supported configuration may require additional evaluation before updating the report.
Learn about CompliCorp and founder David LoPresti, or review our evaluation and delivery process.
Service questions
Frequently asked questions.
Scope, deliverables, and what to expect from your engagement.
Why does a kiosk need more than software accessibility testing?
A kiosk combines an interface with physical controls, output, configuration, and the conditions in which someone uses it. Testing the screen in a desktop browser cannot establish how the complete device works. We identify the tasks and applicable hardware provisions alongside software requirements. For federal procurement, this may require coordinated Section 508 evaluation.
What is closed functionality, and why does it matter?
Closed functionality limits a person's ability to attach or install their own assistive technology. A locked-down self-service terminal is one example. The evaluation therefore needs to consider the device's available accessibility features and the applicable requirements for independent operation. Testing with a screen reader on a separate computer would not, by itself, demonstrate that the deployed device is accessible.
What device access is required for an evaluation?
Access depends on the tests that need to be performed. We may need a configured unit, an on-site session, or specialist support. Photographs, specifications, and remote demonstrations help define the scope but cannot establish every aspect of physical operation. Before quoting, we confirm the device location, available configurations, peripherals, and any restrictions on test transactions.
Can one hardware ACR cover multiple models or configurations?
Only when the report's scope and evidence support the models and configurations it describes. Changes to controls, software, peripherals, or accessibility features may change the results. Identify the variants the buyer will receive before testing. We can then agree on representative coverage and clearly state the evaluated configurations in the Accessibility Conformance Report.
Does hardware testing include a building accessibility inspection?
No. This service evaluates the agreed ICT product and device interactions. A building or facility survey addresses a separate scope, including features outside the product itself. Installation conditions can still affect device use and may need coordination with the team responsible for the location. Identify those dependencies when planning the evaluation.
What affects the cost and timing of kiosk accessibility testing?
Device functions, configurations, software complexity, physical access, and reporting requirements determine the effort. Shipping, setup, travel, or specialist work may also affect the plan. Provide product specifications, photographs, location, and the buyer's requirements. We confirm the evaluation, logistics, deliverables, and any retesting before agreeing on cost and schedule.
Related accessibility services
Industry applications
Planning resources
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