University collegiate, business, and administrative units are responsible for addressing accessibility issues with their technology, even when that technology is obtained from a third-party. This also applies to add-ons bundled with software, subscription services, free downloads, and other tools provided by outside sources, even if they are freely available.

Before adopting a new tool or technology, you should:

• review University of Iowa standards for accessible technology
• engage with the vendor or developer on accessibility issues;
• talk to your purchasing agent; let them know accessibility matters
• obtain an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR) or similar accessibility documentation from the vendor or developer;
• complete the technology security review which also triggers an accessibility review
• perform or coordinate testing if necessary, to determine the nature and extent of any accessibility barriers;
• complete an Equally Effective Alternate Access Plan if necessary, to document how the unit will address accessibility barriers exposed by testing or in the vendor's documentation.

The IT Accessibility Group is available to consult with anyone on campus who has questions about providing accessible technology to University users. Request a consultation at ITAccessibility@uiowa.edu.

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