8 Things I Wish I'd Known About ADA Compliance Consultants Before Hiring One

The realm of ADA Compliance Consultants is the spearhead of the movement towards universal access, aiming to mitigate disparities and provide equal opportunities to all, including those with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a robust, expansive legislation enacted with this very objective. Thus, the decision to hire an ADA Compliance Consultant is not one that should be taken lightly. Reflecting on my experiences, I’ve identified eight salient points that I wish I had been cognizant of before I embarked on this crucial journey.

• Comprehensive Understanding of the ADA: The ADA is a multifaceted piece of legislation, replete with intricate nuances and specific guidelines. An ADA Compliance Consultant should, therefore, be well-acquainted with all its aspects. For instance, Title I focuses on employment, Title II on state and local government services, and Title III on public accommodations. Each of these requires a unique approach and perspective. A competent consultant should have a hands-on understanding of all these titles to guide organizations towards comprehensive compliance.
• Specialization: Just as a cardiologist specializes in heart health within the broader medical field, an ADA Compliance Consultant may specialize in particular sectors, such as retail, education, or technology. This specialization is significant because each industry has unique access requirements and specific ADA regulations. It is, therefore, beneficial to choose a consultant with expertise in your specific industry to ensure optimal compliance.
• Process of Accessibility Audits: Accessibility audits are a vital part of the ADA compliance process. They involve careful review and analysis of physical and digital spaces to identify potential accessibility barriers. The consultant you hire should have a methodical and meticulous approach to conducting these audits, with a knack for detail that leaves no stone unturned.
• In-depth Knowledge of WCAG: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a series of guidelines for improving web accessibility. They play a pivotal role in making digital content accessible to a range of people with disabilities. A proficient ADA Compliance Consultant should have an in-depth understanding of WCAG and its application in creating inclusive digital environments.
• Training Capabilities: Compliance with ADA is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that requires regular training of staff. Hence, the consultant should not only be knowledgeable but also capable of imparting this knowledge to your employees. They should be able to design and deliver effective ADA training programs tailored to your organization's needs.
• Knowledge of Assistive Technologies: From screen readers to voice recognition software, the use of assistive technologies is on the rise. A proficient ADA Compliance Consultant should be familiar with these technologies and how they can be integrated into your organization’s environment to enhance accessibility.
• ADA Litigation Expertise: Unfortunately, despite best efforts, ADA-related lawsuits can arise. When they do, having a consultant with knowledge and experience in ADA litigation can be invaluable. They can provide expert advice on how to navigate these legal waters and mitigate the potential damage.
• Cost Consideration: Finally, the cost of hiring an ADA Compliance Consultant should be considered. This would include not only the consultant's fees, but also potential costs related to modifications or improvements to meet ADA standards. It is essential to budget for these expenses and view them as an investment in your organization’s future.

In retrospect, having a comprehensive understanding of these aspects would have significantly streamlined my process of hiring an ADA Compliance Consultant. While each point is crucial in its own right, they collectively form a nuanced landscape of ADA compliance that every organization should familiarize themselves with. By doing so, we can better champion the cause of inclusivity, ensuring that our engagements and environments are accessible to all, irrespective of their disabilities.