Inclusivity testing
Description
Inclusivity testing evaluates how real users experience content across different accessibility, linguistic and cultural contexts. It goes beyond checking compliance – it examines whether every user can interact, understand and engage with content equally.
This process combines accessibility audits (for standards such as WCAG, Section 508 and ADA) with cultural and linguistic quality checks. Testers review text alternatives, captions, layouts, navigation and color contrast, while also examining tone, phrasing and imagery for bias or exclusion. Inclusivity testing is most effective when it’s built into localization workflows rather than added later. It ensures that digital products, eLearning content, websites and apps work for everyone – not just for a default audience.
Example use cases
- Development: Verify that designs, navigation and content meet accessibility standards.
- Training: Ensure instructional materials are perceivable, operable and understandable.
- Communication: Test global messaging for inclusive tone and visual representation.
- Software: Identify cultural or linguistic barriers that affect usability.
- Compliance: Validate compliance with accessibility legislation and diversity frameworks.
Key benefits
RWS perspective
At RWS, inclusivity testing is part of how we unlock global understanding. We help organizations design digital experiences that are accessible to everyone, everywhere.
Our experts combine Accessibility testing, Linguistic testing and cultural review to ensure content meets both technical and human standards. Using assistive technologies and real-user testing, we assess compliance against WCAG and regional regulations while focusing on usability and empathy. Through our Accessibility Services, Web and Software Accessibility programs and eLearning Accessibility solutions, we embed inclusivity at every stage of the localization process. Our Human + Technology approach pairs automation with expert judgment – helping clients achieve digital equity, user confidence and meaningful engagement across markets.