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What Are Manual Accessibility Tests?

Why Automated Tests Are Not Enough

Automated tests such as Eye-Able Report and Audit cover a large number of websites, but they only detect barriers that can be measured by machines. This broad-based test is very helpful in identifying critical errors on all pages, which would not be possible manually. Manual tests, on the other hand, test a few pages in depth and also provide feedback on how real users with disabilities actually experience a website.

Why Manual Tests Matter

Manual user tests answer the core question:

How accessible is our website in reality?

Before implementing a complex system, they provide a one-time, clear overview of the current accessibility status. They show precisely where barriers exist and help prioritize meaningful next steps.

You can find more detailed information on this topic in the following article:

Why are manual usability tests important?

Manual Test Results in the Eye-Able Dashboard

All manual testing steps are documented directly in the Eye-Able Dashboard. You can:

  • view all findings

  • prioritize actions

  • track progress

  • export reports as PDF

Together, they create a complete picture of accessibility, combining both automated and manual results.

Automated vs. Manual – The Critical Difference

Automated tests detect many issues, but not necessarily the critical ones — such as a keyboard trap that can block the entire website.
Manual tests reliably uncover such barriers, because experts operate the site using screenreaders, keyboard navigation, or magnification software.

For legally compliant assessments according to BFSG, EAA, or BITV, manual evaluations are also mandatory.

Who Are Manual Tests For?

For everyone who aims to implement accessibility seriously — especially when:

  • operating webshops, forms, or login areas

  • legal requirements must be met

  • barriers with high impact need to be identified quickly

  • the next step toward full WCAG compliance is planned

Internal teams with accessibility knowledge can also use the testing workflow independently.

What Are the Benefits of a Manual Test?

  • Test with real users

  • Practical recommendations: clearly prioritized and directly actionable

  • Sustainable impact: improved usability and conversion rate for all users

Depending on the product, a test includes 13–112 evaluation steps based on WCAG and EN 301 549, including screenreader testing, keyboard navigation, and expert review.

Conclusion: Real Accessibility Requires Real People

Automated checks are important — but only manual tests reveal how well a website truly works.
They uncover hidden barriers, provide concrete solutions, and are essential for meeting WCAG, EN 301 549, and legal requirements.

Even a single manual test can initiate major improvements and make digital offerings genuinely inclusive.