Accessibility Statement

Effective Date: November 4, 2025

1. Accessibility Standards

NIEA is dedicated to conforming to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content more accessible for people with disabilities and user-friendly for everyone.

Our Platform aims to comply with the following standards and regulations:

• WCAG 2.1 Level AA: International standard for web accessibility
• Section 508: U.S. federal accessibility standards for electronic and information technology
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): U.S. civil rights law prohibiting discrimination based on disability
• EN 301 549: European accessibility standard for ICT products and services
• AODA: Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (where applicable)

2. Accessibility Features

We have implemented the following features to enhance accessibility across our mobile application and website:

2.1 Visual Accessibility

• Color Contrast: Text and interactive elements meet WCAG AA contrast ratios (4.5:1 for normal text, 3:1 for large text)
• Resizable Text: Text can be resized up to 200% without loss of content or functionality
• Responsive Design: Content adapts to different screen sizes and orientations
• Clear Typography: Readable fonts with appropriate sizing and line spacing
• Visual Focus Indicators: Clear keyboard focus indicators on all interactive elements
• Non-Color Identification: Information is not conveyed by color alone
• Sufficient Whitespace: Adequate spacing between clickable elements for easy targeting

2.2 Navigation and Structure

• Semantic HTML: Proper use of headings, landmarks, and HTML5 semantic elements
• Keyboard Navigation: All functionality accessible via keyboard without requiring a mouse
• Skip Navigation Links: Ability to skip repetitive navigation and go directly to main content
• Logical Tab Order: Keyboard focus moves in a logical, predictable order
• Breadcrumb Navigation: Clear indication of current location within the Platform
• Consistent Navigation: Navigation menus appear in the same location across pages
• Descriptive Page Titles: Unique, descriptive titles for all pages

2.3 Screen Reader Compatibility

• ARIA Labels: Appropriate ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) labels and attributes
• Alt Text: Descriptive alternative text for all meaningful images
• Form Labels: Clear labels associated with all form inputs
• Error Identification: Form errors clearly identified and described for screen readers
• Live Regions: ARIA live regions for dynamic content updates
• Heading Structure: Logical heading hierarchy (H1, H2, H3, etc.)
• Link Purpose: Link text describes the destination or purpose clearly

2.4 Multimedia Accessibility

• Video Captions: Closed captions for all video content with audio
• Audio Transcripts: Text transcripts available for audio-only content
• Audio Descriptions: Descriptions of visual content in videos (where applicable)
• Media Controls: Accessible play, pause, and volume controls
• Auto-Play Prevention: Media does not auto-play without user control

2.5 Mobile Accessibility

• Touch Target Size: Minimum 44x44 pixel touch targets for mobile interactions
• Screen Reader Support: Compatible with iOS VoiceOver and Android TalkBack
• Gesture Alternatives: Alternative input methods for complex gestures
• Orientation Support: Content accessible in both portrait and landscape orientations
• Platform Accessibility Features: Integration with iOS and Android accessibility settings
• Voice Control: Support for voice control on iOS and Android devices

2.6 Cognitive Accessibility

• Clear Language: Plain language and clear, concise content
• Consistent Design: Predictable and consistent interface patterns
• Error Prevention: Confirmation requests for significant actions
• Error Recovery: Clear instructions for correcting errors
• Session Timeout Warnings: Warnings before session expiration with option to extend
• Progress Indicators: Visual feedback for multi-step processes
• Help and Documentation: Context-sensitive help and clear instructions

3. Assistive Technology Compatibility

NIEA is designed to be compatible with the following assistive technologies:

3.1 Screen Readers

• JAWS: Job Access With Speech (Windows)
• NVDA: NonVisual Desktop Access (Windows)
• VoiceOver: Apple's built-in screen reader (macOS, iOS)
• TalkBack: Google's screen reader (Android)
• Narrator: Windows built-in screen reader

3.2 Other Assistive Technologies

• Screen magnification software: ZoomText, MAGic, Windows Magnifier
• Speech recognition software: Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Windows Speech Recognition
• Voice control: iOS Voice Control, Android Voice Access
• Switch access: iOS Switch Control, Android Switch Access
• Alternative keyboards: On-screen keyboards, adaptive keyboards
• Browser extensions: Text-to-speech, readability enhancers, dyslexia-friendly fonts

3.3 Browser Support

The NIEA Platform is tested and optimized for accessibility with:

• Google Chrome (latest version)
• Mozilla Firefox (latest version)
• Apple Safari (latest version)
• Microsoft Edge (latest version)
• Mobile Safari (iOS 14+)
• Chrome for Android (Android 10+)

We recommend using the latest version of your preferred browser with assistive technologies for the best accessibility experience.

4. Known Limitations

Despite our best efforts, some accessibility limitations may exist. We are actively working to address the following known issues:

• Third-Party Content: Some third-party integrations (OAuth providers, embedded content) may have accessibility limitations outside our control
• Complex Data Visualizations: Some charts and graphs in the Impact section may have limited screen reader descriptions; we are working to improve data tables and textual alternatives
• PDF Documents: Some downloadable PDF documents may not be fully accessible; we are working to ensure all PDFs meet accessibility standards
• Legacy Content: Older content may not meet current accessibility standards; we are systematically reviewing and updating legacy content
• Video Content: Some historical video content may lack captions or audio descriptions; all new video content includes full accessibility features

5. Ongoing Accessibility Efforts

Accessibility is an ongoing commitment. NIEA continuously works to improve accessibility through:

5.1 Testing and Auditing

• Regular automated accessibility testing using industry-standard tools (axe, WAVE, Lighthouse)
• Manual testing with assistive technologies by trained accessibility specialists
• User testing with individuals who rely on assistive technologies
• Periodic third-party accessibility audits and VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) documentation
• Code reviews focused on accessibility best practices

5.2 Development and Design

• Accessibility training for all developers, designers, and content creators
• Accessibility considerations integrated into design and development processes
• Automated accessibility testing in our continuous integration pipeline
• Accessibility guidelines documented in our design system and style guides
• Regular review of WCAG updates and emerging accessibility standards

5.3 Content Management

• Accessibility guidelines for content authors and contributors
• Tools and templates that encourage accessible content creation
• Review process to ensure new content meets accessibility standards
• Systematic remediation of legacy content to meet current standards

6. Third-Party Services

The NIEA Platform integrates with third-party services that have their own accessibility features and limitations:

• Google Sign-In: Follows Google's accessibility standards; refer to Google's accessibility documentation
• Sign in with Apple: Follows Apple's accessibility standards; refer to Apple's accessibility documentation
• AWS Services: Cloud infrastructure services comply with accessibility standards for service management consoles
• OpenAI Chat: AI-powered features designed to be accessible but may have limitations in complex interactions

While we cannot control the accessibility of third-party services, we carefully select partners with strong accessibility commitments and work with them to address accessibility concerns.

7. Feedback and Support

We welcome your feedback on the accessibility of the NIEA Platform. If you encounter accessibility barriers, please let us know so we can work to remove them.

7.1 Reporting Accessibility Issues

To report an accessibility issue, request accessible content, or ask questions about accessibility, please contact us:

When reporting an accessibility issue, please include:

• The specific page or feature where you encountered the issue
• A description of the problem and how it affects you
• The assistive technology you are using (including version number)
• The browser and operating system you are using
• Screenshots or screen recordings (if applicable)

7.2 Response Timeline

We aim to respond to accessibility feedback within 2 business days. For critical accessibility barriers that prevent platform access, we prioritize immediate investigation and workarounds. Depending on the complexity of the issue, resolution may take from a few days to several weeks. We will keep you informed of our progress and expected resolution timeline.

7.3 Alternative Access

If you encounter a barrier that prevents you from accessing any Platform content or features, please contact us. We will work with you to provide the information or functionality in an alternative accessible format or method.

8. Accessibility Resources

NIEA provides resources to help users maximize accessibility:

8.1 User Guides

• Documentation on using NIEA with screen readers
• Keyboard navigation guide for the Platform
• Instructions for adjusting accessibility settings
• Mobile accessibility features guide
• Tips for using Platform features with assistive technologies

8.2 Accessibility Settings

Users can customize their experience through:

• Browser accessibility settings (text size, color contrast, high contrast mode)
• Operating system accessibility features (screen readers, magnification, voice control)
• Device-specific accessibility settings (iOS Accessibility, Android Accessibility)
• Platform notification preferences to reduce cognitive load

8.3 External Resources

Additional accessibility resources:

• Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI): https://www.w3.org/WAI/
• WebAIM: https://webaim.org/
• Section508.gov: https://www.section508.gov/
• Apple Accessibility: https://www.apple.com/accessibility/
• Android Accessibility: https://www.android.com/accessibility/

9. Legal Compliance

NIEA is committed to compliance with applicable accessibility laws and regulations, including:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title III: Prohibition of discrimination in public accommodations
• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act: Accessibility standards for federal agencies and contractors
• State Accessibility Laws: Various state-level accessibility requirements
• International Standards: WCAG 2.1, EN 301 549, and other international accessibility standards

We conduct regular reviews of our compliance status and work proactively to meet or exceed legal requirements.

10. Formal Complaints and Grievances

While we strive to respond to all accessibility feedback promptly and effectively, if you believe we have not adequately addressed your accessibility concern, you have the right to file a formal complaint.

10.1 Internal Complaint Process

To file a formal accessibility complaint with NIEA:

1. Submit your complaint in writing to us@theniea.com with subject line "Formal Accessibility Complaint"
2. Include detailed description of the accessibility barrier and attempts to resolve it
3. We will acknowledge receipt within 2 business days
4. We will investigate and provide a written response within 15 business days
5. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may escalate to our senior leadership

10.2 External Complaint Options

You also have the right to file a complaint with external agencies:

• U.S. Department of Justice: ADA complaints for public accommodations
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Section 508 compliance (if applicable)
• State Attorney General: State-level accessibility law complaints
• Local Disability Rights Organizations: Advocacy and support resources

11. Updates to This Statement

We review and update this Accessibility Statement regularly to reflect our ongoing accessibility improvements and changing standards. The effective date at the top of this page indicates when the statement was last revised. Material changes will be communicated through Platform notifications.

12. Contact Information

For accessibility questions, feedback, or support, please contact us: