Vetting Before Getting:  Is Your Information and Communication Technology Accessible?

Where: Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center
14 Mechanic Street
Southbridge, MA 01550
Directions and Map
Carpool Information

When: Wednesday, November 13, 2019
9:00am - 3:00pm 
Note: Registration starts at 7:30am

Workshop Organizer: Kristina England of UMASS President's Office and Kelsey Hall 

Registration Fee:
NERCOMP Member: $145
Non Member: $290
The registration fee includes am and pm break and lunch.

Event Overview
Not sure? Come learn about a vetting process and how it works to ensure everyone in your community can easily engage with the services. It is critical for you to provide information and communication technology that is accessible to everyone equally and equitably, regardless of ability or disability. Institutions of higher education have policies and procedures in place to procure new technology, but how many include vetting products for accessibility?

This workshop will cover how the University of Massachusetts is vetting products, software, websites and more to ensure WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) compliance. Please B.Y.O.D. (Bring Your Own Device) and learn about:

- Implementation of formal procurement standards, prioritization of products, and example RFP and Contract language – what to avoid and what to emphasize
- Contract renewals and expanded rollout of existing products
- The accessibility testing process
- Responsibilities of both the vendor and the procuring institution in ensuring accessibility for all

Session Outcomes:
  - Ability to discuss foundational laws and standards dictating the need for equal and equitable access to ICT.
  - Practice and engage with basic testing principles to ensure vendor product accessibility.
  - Describe the inclusion of accessibility (when, where, how, why) as part of the overall procurement process, as well as the collaborative process in working with vendors on creating accessible ICT.

Registration Cancellation Policy:
By clicking on the "Order Now" button, you are indicating a commitment to attend and will be held responsible for the registration fee. Your fee can be refunded if you notify us of a cancellation at least 8 days prior to the event via email to nercomp@nercomp.org.

Event Disclaimer:
NERCOMP reserves the right to use any photographs or other mechanical recordings taken at NERCOMP events in promotional materials. No mechanical recordings of any kind may be used at NERCOMP events without the prior written consent of NERCOMP organizers and presenters. The views and opinions expressed at NERCOMP events do not necessarily reflect those of NERCOMP, nor does NERCOMP make any representation regarding the information presented at NERCOMP events.