Scottish Government
Applications Accessibility
Making Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications accessible for the Scottish Government.
The challenge
The Scottish Government (SG) recently implemented Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications for its vast workforce of over 22,000 staff members. A critical component of this project was ensuring all employees, regardless of ability, had equal access to these new applications. However, achieving optimal accessibility presented several hurdles.
Firstly, a comprehensive testing strategy to evaluate the applications with assistive technologies like screen readers and speech recognition software was not yet established. Additionally, while the applications stated it met WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards, future-proofing the solution required considering upcoming WCAG 2.2 criteria. Finally, integrating user testing with staff with disabilities and ensuring consistent accessibility across all digital touchpoints were crucial aspects that needed to be addressed.
These challenges had the potential to create barriers for staff members with disabilities, hindering their ability to effectively utilize the new applications and contribute to the organization’s success.
10
Key user journeys
audited and user tested
163
Jira issue tickets with
insights and resolutions
25+
Assistive Technology
users tested
The UCD team tackled accessibility head-on. We implemented a robust testing strategy including manual testing, code analysis, and user testing with staff using assistive technologies. We focused on key workflows in HR, Finance, and Recruitment to ensure real-world usability.
To drive adoption, we created presentations highlighting the importance of accessibility and WCAG compliance. We also identified user groups who would most benefit from these standards.
Communication was key. We documented findings in clear reports and collaborated with IBM, the application configurators, to implement changes within the system and advocate for long-term improvements from Oracle.
User-Centered Design:
My Contribution as UCD Accessibility Lead
In this project, I played a critical role as the UCD Accessibility Lead, ensuring accessibility for Scottish Government’s (SG) staff (over 22,000 users) within Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications. My focus was on implementing a comprehensive accessibility testing strategy and collaborating closely with the UCD team for a seamless user experience for all abilities.
Establishing a Robust Testing Strategy:
I spearheaded the setup of a robust testing strategy for assistive technologies commonly used by SG staff. This included screen readers like JAWS and ZoomText, speech recognition software like DragonPro, browser zoom features, and various high contrast modes. This multi-faceted approach ensured thorough testing and identified potential barriers for users with diverse needs.
WCAG Expertise and Auditing:
I leveraged my expertise in Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to conduct WCAG-EM (Evaluation Methodology) audits. I also performed manual audits against WCAG 2.1 criteria with screenshots and announcement transcripts as well as creating resolutions for the issues found. I proactively introduced the team to the upcoming WCAG 2.2 criteria, ensuring our approach remained future-proof.
Prioritization and Resolution:
Upon identifying accessibility issues, I collaborated with the team to establish severity levels and prioritize them effectively within the fast-paced Agile development environment with sprints. My technical skills in Front-End Development (FED) and UX, proved invaluable in this role. I not only identified the root cause of accessibility issues but also provided potential solutions within the Jira tickets we created. These tickets documented the issue (recreation steps, expected behaviour, actual behaviour), and offered possible solutions. This comprehensive approach ensured efficient resolution and clear communication.
User-Centered Testing & Collaboration:
Working closely with the UCD team, I actively participated in user testing sessions involving staff with disabilities. During these sessions, I closely communicated with the interviewer, gleaning valuable insights into user experience challenges. This collaborative approach ensured the testing process considered real-world user needs and resulted in actionable improvements.
Accessibility Beyond Apps:
My commitment to accessibility extended beyond the Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications. I assisted the team with accessibility checks for various digital touchpoints used by SG staff, including PDFs, emails, and forms. This holistic approach ensures a truly inclusive user experience for all staff members across all digital interactions with the Scottish Government.
Identifying Critical Barriers:
By analysing the results of audits and user testing, I collaborated with the team to create comprehensive barrier maps. These maps visualized critical accessibility issues and blockers, providing a clear understanding of the scope of the challenges and prioritizing remediation efforts. To align this mapping, we created Persona’s that we could align with in the mapping.
Collaboration with IBM:
The Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications are configured by IBM. I fostered a strong working relationship with the IBM team (Oracle Fusion Cloud Application Configurators). Through open communication, we explored what accessibility improvements could be achieved through configuration authoring within the existing system. For issues that couldn’t be resolved through configuration, I worked with the team to document them as Service Request (SR) bug reports to be submitted to Oracle. This dual-pronged approach ensured we maximized accessibility within the existing system while advocating for long-term improvements from the application vendor.
By leading these initiatives, I played a key role in creating a more accessible digital environment for the Scottish Government. This commitment to inclusivity empowers all staff members to effectively utilize the Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications and contribute to the organization’s success.
A lasting impact
The UCD team’s commitment to accessibility has had a significant and lasting impact on the Scottish Government:
- A Culture of Accessibility: By prioritizing accessibility throughout the project, we successfully raised awareness and instilled a culture of accessibility within the organization. This newfound focus ensures that accessibility remains a top consideration in all future digital initiatives.
- Continuous Optimization: We established a robust framework for ongoing accessibility testing and optimization. This includes user testing with assistive technologies and regular code analysis to identify and address any potential accessibility barriers as the Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications evolve.
- Empowered Staff: By creating a more accessible digital environment, we empowered all SG staff members, regardless of ability, to effectively utilize the Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications. This fosters a more inclusive workplace and optimizes overall staff productivity.
The project’s success serves as a benchmark for future endeavours, demonstrating the value of a user-centered approach and the positive impact of prioritizing accessibility for all users.
