The International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) is seeking your input on a new study. IAAP plans to better define the knowledge and skills required of a procurement specialist responsible for acquiring accessible information and communication technologies (ICT). They are looking for insights from professionals who are actively involved in procuring accessible ICT goods and services. The results of this survey will help to guide the development of the certification of Procurement Specialist in Accessibility. The survey will close on December 31, 2019.

Who should respond?

IAAP is seeking input from procurement specialists and related professionals with the following experiences:

  • Understanding, analyzing, and assessing ICT accessibility documents and other relevant informational resources
  • Participating in the recommendation or selection of the deliverable as part of the procurement life cycle for a particular purchase or contract
  • Shaping ICT accessibility policy and other strategic roles managing procurement specialists

What are the survey’s goals and next steps?

The purpose of this study is to better define the activities performed by those who work as a Procurement Specialist responsible for acquiring ICT goods and services in support of accessibility compliance for Rehabilitation Act Sections 504 and 508. The outcomes of this study will advise the creation and content of an Accessible Procurement Specialist certification program planned for 2020. An additional survey and program focused on supporting procedures related to the European Union’s EN 301 549 standards will follow in early 2020.

How is procurement related to workplace accessibility?

Implementing accessible workplace technology means buying accessible technology in the first place. Procurement specialists need accessibility knowledge as they conduct  vendor research, specify requirements, and validate the accessibility of product choices prior to accepting and implementing them. To learn more about the process for working with vendors to ensure that the technology you buy is accessible, check out PEAT’s own Buy IT! tool.