The ATF’s accessibility testing capabilities began as a proof of concept (PoC), where we showcased the value of automated accessibility testing solutions. For this initial phase, Generative AI tools were used to quickly build a prototype, demonstrating how accessibility testing could become a valuable extension of the Celfocus ATF feature set.

The timing aligned perfectly with a client facing accessibility challenges across its web portals and requiring to reinforce the EAA (European Accessibility Act). The client was positively surprised when we demonstrated how accessibility test execution could be automated in a systematic and easy-to-interpret way, clearly identifying failures against EAA and WCAG standards.

Celfocus Automated Testing Framework (ATF) was enhanced by integrating specialized accessibility testing capabilities, enabling validations that were previously unavailable. Our delivery method leverages ATF’s ability to export tests in standard, easy-to-read reports, supporting a systematic approach to problem solving. The framework was adapted into an open-source format, allowing for seamless integration with the client’s technology stack and enabling efficient, repeatable execution in future projects.

The project team benefited from fast, reliable, and resilient tests that significantly accelerated delivery and improved testing efficiency. Accessibility tests, which typically require 60–70% more effort, were executed with minimal investment thanks to ATF’s functional flows. At the end of the engagement, the client will receive the corrected test pages, validated test cases, and the open-source version of the ATF framework.

The client benefits from a robust automated accessibility regression testing suite, a capability that had not been explored previously. This solution enables continuous monitoring of accessibility compliance with standards such as the European Accessibility Act (EAA) and WCAG, reduces the need for manual testing, and ensures that accessibility fixes remain stable over time. Additionally, the open-source delivery format allows for seamless integration into the client’s existing development workflows.

More importantly, the client receives an efficient execution model that can be repeated in future projects, thanks to the open-source nature of the framework.

This project reinforces Celfocus's position in the rapidly growing accessibility compliance market. With the European Accessibility Act (EAA) coming into full effect , and similar regulations emerging globally, accessibility testing has shifted from a “nice-to-have” to a business-critical requirement.

By developing specialized automation capabilities for accessibility testing, we’ve gained a significant competitive edge in an underserved market. Digital accessibility impacts over 1 billion people worldwide with disabilities, making it not only a regulatory necessity but also a moral imperative.

Organizations that fail to comply face serious legal and reputational risks, driving strong demand for reliable and scalable accessibility testing solutions. Our enhanced ATF framework positions Celfocus as the go-to partner for accessibility automation, unlocking opportunities across industries that must adhere to accessibility standards.

This differentiates us from competitors who may lack automated accessibility testing capabilities and positions us to capture a growing market segment where clients are actively seeking compliant and inclusive digital experiences. Furthermore, the reusable nature of ATF’s accessibility testing capabilities allows us to rapidly scale and deploy solutions across all our projects.

An additional gain from this initiative was the integration of Generative AI, which enabled a low-cost exploration of possible solutions. Therefore, his project proves that embracing emerging technologies in a cost-effective and impactful way is not only possible, but it’s already happening at Celfocus.  

This project exemplifies effective collaboration across all phases, driven by the contributions of a dedicated and skilled team. It began with Vítor Sérgio Almeida, who developed the initial proof of concept that demonstrated the viability of automated accessibility testing, using GenAI. Building on this solid foundation, the core development team, Igor Terroso, Diogo Borges, Pedro Miguel Gregório, Patrícia Dias, and Sérgio Pinto, enhanced our ATF framework with robust accessibility testing capabilities. Bringing the work to the client side, Bruno Leal took the enhanced framework and successfully implemented the accessibility tests, ensuring both seamless knowledge transfer and real-world application. This end-to-end collaboration, from concept through to client delivery, highlights how our collective expertise comes together to create innovative, impactful solutions that address real client needs.

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The enhanced capabilities of the ATF framework are well-positioned to support future accessibility testing needs across our client portfolio. We look forward to leveraging them in upcoming projects and to continue exploring GenAI potentialities and other groundbreaking technologies.

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