PDFs have become a ubiquitous format for sharing documents securely and efficiently. However, not all PDFs are accessible to people with disabilities. Shockingly, more than 90% of digital content is inaccessible for users who are blind, have low vision, or navigate using a keyboard. (Source: Nucleus Research) Many organizations have started the journey to making their PDF documents accessible. They either do it in-house or hire a pdf remediation vendor to make their documents conform to accessibility standards, such as PDF/UA or WCAG 2.2.

If you are currently in the market evaluating potential vendors, here are the five key areas you should consider while choosing the right partner for all your PDF document remediation needs.

1. Sееing the Big Picture: Audits, Roadmaps, and Beyond

Before embarking on a PDF remediation journey, it’s essential to understand your current digital accessibility state. An experienced PDF remediation company will propose performing a comprehensive assessment for understanding the current PDF creation practices, internal teams’ accessibility knowledge and identifying gaps in your existing PDF documents. Additionally, they should provide a clear roadmap for current and future document accessibility requirements, while ensuring transparency and alignment with your accessibility goals.

2. Learn about their PDF Remediation Process

A successful PDF remediation project relies on a well-defined and robust process. When considering a remediation company, inquire about their methodology, technology, and tools used to make PDFs accessible. Effective project management processes should be in place to guarantee smooth collaboration and timely delivery. Furthermore, inquire about their quality assurance practices to ensure that the remediated PDFs mееt the highest accessibility standards.

3. Start Small and Scale Up

To mitigate risks and gain confidence in the capabilities of a PDF remediation vendor, consider starting with a free or paid pilot program. With limited scope, it will be easier for you to quickly assess the vendor’s capabilities in terms of expertise, communication, quality, and turnaround time. Though this approach may consume time and sometimes money, you can take well-informed decisions and ensure your large-scale accessibility programs stay on budget and on time.

4. Experience: Handling Complexity with Expertise

PDF documents come in various formats and complexities, making it crucial to choose a remediation partner with ample experience in handling diverse document types. Look for a company that has expertise in remediating PDFs across multiple domains, as this ensures their familiarity with industry-specific requirements. A skilled team equipped with relevant certifications showcases their commitment to delivering high-quality accessible PDFs.

5. Security: Safeguarding Your Documents

While seeking PDF remediation services, prioritize the security of your sensitive information. Look for a company that adheres to stringent security protocols, such as GDPR, CCPA, PCI, and HIPAA. Inquire about their data transfer and storage practices to ensure that your files are handled securely throughout the remediation process. A reputable remediation company will prioritize the confidentiality and integrity of your documents.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right PDF remediation company is a critical step toward making your PDF documents accessible to all. By considering the above factors, you can confidently select a partner that will transform your PDFs into inclusive and compliant documents. Remember, accessibility is not just about compliance; it is about empowering individuals with disabilities to access information and participate fully in the digital world. Together, let’s unlock the secrets of accessible PDFs and make a difference in the lives of many.