In September, Gebruiker Centraal (User Needs First) centres on Testember, a month filled with activities, concrete examples, and helpful tools. It’s a perfect opportunity to assess the digital accessibility of websites and apps. Here are 6 tools, some in Dutch and some in English, that may help:
- Gebruiker Centraal has compiled a range of digital accessibility tools in Dutch, from colour contrast checks to comprehensive web page audits. Additionally, the English-language section of their website, User Needs First, provides the Service Design Toolkit. This toolkit includes handbooks and tools to support adopting a user-centric approach to designing digital public services.
- The WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool (English) allows you to check a webpage for common accessibility issues and identify potential problem areas.
- The WCAG Explanation by NL Design System (Dutch) makes accessibility requirements concrete and explains various criteria, including how to test them. Alternatively, WCAG’s own website offers a Quick Reference to WCAG requirements in English.
- The DigiToegankelijk Dashboard (Dutch) displays the accessibility status of websites and apps from government organisations, giving you quick insight into where improvements are needed.
- With the latest version of PAC 2026 (English), you can check PDF files for technical accessibility. The tool includes AI-supported checks, reducing the need for manual testing. If you cannot or prefer not to install software, the PDF Tag Viewer (English) by Toegankelijk Online offers a low-threshold initial check in your browser, without uploading your PDF to the cloud.
- The Accessibility Ladder by DigiToegankelijk (Dutch) provides insight into how your organisation manages digital accessibility through 7 questions. The results highlight areas for improvement. The Accessibility Ladder was based on the Safety Culture Ladder (English).
More expert tips
By regularly testing websites and apps, you can identify where users struggle and improve service delivery. Throughout September, Gebruiker Centraal is organising various activities focused on testing and user research. View the full Testember programme (Dutch).
