Automated vs. Manual EAA Testing: Which will save your business from penalties

 The European Accessibility Act 2025 deadline is almost here. Businesses are working to make their websites, apps and digital services accessible. Many are looking for shortcuts, for some automated EAA testing seem like the perfect solution.

Just enter the code, click a button, and boom; you get the results in seconds. It sounds great but there is a catch. Automated scans cannot give 100% accurate results. They save time, but are they really worth it? Keep on reading to find out the right approach to save your business from serial litigants.

What is automated EAA Testing?

Automated testing uses software tools to check if a website or app follows accessibility rules. These tools scan code and find issues like:

Missing alt text on images
Low color contrast
Poor keyboard navigation
Missing form labels

It is fast, easy and useful but it is not a perfect solution that would give peace of mind.

What is manual EAA accessibility testing?

Manual testing means real people test your website like a user with disabilities would. They check things like:

Can a blind user navigate the site using a screen reader?
Does the keyboard work for all functions?
Are buttons and links easy to click on mobile?
Are animations distracting for users with ADHD?

Manual testing takes longer, but it finds real-world problems that automated scans miss.

The Pros and Cons of Each Method

Automated Testing is fast but Limited. You can expect quick results. You can scan thousands of pages at once. But a testing tool only catches common coding mistakes. You cannot test real user experience. Sometimes it misses screen reader issues. It cannot check usability or context

Manual Testing on the other hand is accurate but time consuming. The best thing about manual audits that they find real user problems. You can test screen readers and keyboard use. You get assured results for usability and readability checks. However, it takes more time and you will need trained testers. Some audits might costs more than automated scans.

So what is the best approach for EAA Test?

The best approach is to use both.

Start with automated testing to quickly catch basic issues. Follow up with manual testing to find real-world barriers. Fix both coding errors and usability problems. Automated scans help but they cannot replace human testing.

What happens if you plan for a shortcut and skip manual testing?

If you only use testing tools for automated scans then you might fail EAA compliance.

Some users will not be able to use your site properly.
You could still face legal fines.
You might lose customers who need accessibility.

Conclusion

Automated scans with aWCAG compliance checker are a great start. However, you might miss key information about real user experience. Your business will fully pass EAA compliance when you use automated tools for quick checks and do manual testing with real users.

With the EAA deadline getting closer, now is the time to test your website properly. Do not take shortcuts and get a quote from ADACP. They have experienced audit specialists who can make sure your site is truly accessible.