Accessibility Tip: Review VPATs Before You Request Purchase
Before submitting a request to purchase or renew digital tools, accessibility must be part of the review process.
A VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) is a vendor-completed document that explains how a product meets accessibility standards like WCAG 2.1 Level AA. Reviewing a VPAT helps ensure the technology we adopt is usable by individuals with disabilities and aligns with ADA requirements ahead of the April 24, 2026 compliance deadline.
Who Should Do This?
Anyone involved in selecting, purchasing, renewing, or recommending third-party digital products — including instructional tools, software, web platforms, or online systems.
What to Do
- Request a current VPAT from the vendor
- Follow the MSUM third-party digital product review process
- Use the Third-Party Digital Product Guide: Six Best Practices for Evaluating and Purchasing Accessible Technology to support your evaluation (linked below)
Proactively reviewing accessibility helps avoid barriers, reduce risk, and ensure equal access for our campus community.
→ Learn more with the Third-Party Digital Product Guide (You must be logged with your StarID in order to view this document.)
→ Follow the MSUM Software Procurement Accessibility Review Process
→ Learn more about Digital Accessibility
Accessibility Tip is a series from the Digital Accessibility group, a subcommittee of the University Technology Committee, sharing practical ways to improve digital accessibility and create more inclusive online experiences at Minnesota State Moorhead.