Automated vs Manual: Two Complementary Approaches
Both are essential but with very different roles and limits.
Automated: 30-40% Coverage
Detects: missing alt, contrast issues, missing labels, page language, heading hierarchy, incorrect ARIA syntax, empty links/buttons.
Manual Only: 60-70% Remaining
Alt text relevance, navigation logic, screen reader usability, content meaning without visuals, keyboard trap detection, alternative equivalence.
Comparison
Automated: free, minutes, every deployment, low expertise. Manual: €3-15K, 5-15 days, 1-2x/year, expert required. Automated has many false negatives; manual is comprehensive.
Recommended Strategy
CI/CD automated tests continuously, RGAA Test + keyboard each sprint, screen reader quarterly, full manual audit annually, user reporting permanently.
Automated testing is your daily safety net. Manual audit is your annual health check. Both are necessary.