To ensure end-to-end accessibility coverage, it is imperative for accessibility testers to have knowledge of different types of disabilities and the challenges they pose to end-users. Testers who understand users' requirements and know what to check for will provide a better accessibility outcome.

Some may see checklists as unnecessary, but consider the growing complexity of many of our software development and testing tasks. Ignoring the use of a tool such as checklists (when appropriate) can increase the risk in our already risky world of software testing. Sometimes, simpler is better.

One of the important phases in the accessibility testing lifecycle is identifying the right tool for doing the job. Standard evaluation methods make it easier to compare different tools and have a significant bearing on time, cost, and quality. Here are four steps to help in the selection process.