Overview
The University of Massachusetts (UMass) Boston’s website is not fully accessible. We determined that 9 webpages out of our sample of 80 were not accessible in accordance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for navigational accessibility. Of these, we determined that all 9 had broken hyperlinks.
Broken or faulty hyperlinks limit users from having equitable access to critical information and key online services offered by UMass Boston. They also increase the likelihood that Massachusetts residents and students will either access outdated or incorrect information or be directed to webpages that no longer exist.
Authoritative Guidance
The Web Accessibility Initiative’s WCAG 2.0 states,
Success Criteria 2.4.5,
More than one way is available to locate a Web page within a set of Web pages except where the Web Page is the result of, or a step in, a process.
Reasons for Issue
The UMass Boston accessibility team told us that the broken hyperlinks were currently being addressed and explained that broken hyperlinks were related to expired events and retired webpages.
Recommendation
UMass Boston should continually review its webpages to ensure that all hyperlinks lead to related information and provide equitable access to critical information and services offered online by UMass Boston.
Auditee’s Response
The University understands the importance of ensuring the accessibility of its webpages for all users. It is important to note that accessibility is and has been a priority of the campus and webpage reviews were performed before a launch and weekly during the audit scope period. The campus will continue to perform weekly accessibility reviews and resolve issues as they are identified. Also, the campus has fixed all hyperlink issues identified in the audit.
Auditor’s Reply
Based on its response, UMass Boston is taking measures to address our concerns regarding this matter.
| Date published: | December 26, 2024 |
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