Beyond Detection: A Framework for Transforming Accessibility Evaluations into Implementable Fixes

Paula Palomino; André Araújo; Alenilton Silva; Rafael Araújo; Diego Dermeval; Grace Lis Porto; Sofia Simanke; Thiago Cordeiro; Rodrigo Lisboa

doi:10.5753/jis.2025.5518

Authors

Paula Palomino Sao Paulo State College of Technology https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9730-2253
André Araújo Federal University of Alagoas https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8321-2268
Alenilton Silva Federal University of Alagoas https://orcid.org/0009-0008-2989-3996
Rafael Araújo Federal University of Uberlândia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0545-2519
Diego Dermeval Federal University of Alagoas https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8415-6955
Grace Lis Porto Federal University of São Carlos https://orcid.org/0009-0005-1333-1065
Sofia Simanke University of São Paulo https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3334-5459
Thiago Cordeiro Federal University of Alagoas https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0976-7040
Rodrigo Lisboa Federal Rural University of Amazonas https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5217-908X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5753/jis.2025.5518

Keywords:

Accessibility, Government Digital Platforms, Actionable Accessibility Fixes, Inclusive Design, Accessibility Evaluation Framework

Abstract

Ensuring accessibility in government-managed digital platforms is essential for inclusive public services. However, accessibility evaluations often fail to produce actionable outcomes, creating a gap between assessment and implementation. This study presents a structured accessibility framework designed to bridge that gap by converting evaluation findings into implementable fixes. The framework integrates automated and manual assessments, maps each identified barrier to a user-centered justification, and generates structured action points that clearly assign responsibilities to development and design teams. The framework was tested through a pilot application on PNLD Formação (a Brazilian government platform developed as part of the public policy ”Programa Nacional do Livro e do Material Didático” – PNLD, or National Textbook Program) and empirically validated on PNLD Avaliação (another governmental platform supporting the pedagogic evaluation phase of the same policy). Additionally, a user survey conducted during the validation phase revealed not only critical usability challenges on one of the platforms but also misconceptions about accessibility and disability among system users. These findings highlight the need for both technical remediation and cultural awareness initiatives. This study contributes a replicable methodology for integrating accessibility evaluation into digital governance, fostering long-term accessibility improvements in large-scale platforms.

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