Empowering Inclusivity: Achieving Accessibility Across Diverse Audiences with 508 Compliance

Ulatus plays a pivotal role in supporting EnCompass with revolutionary Section 508 localization projects, guaranteeing that their content reaches and resonates with a diverse audience, transcending language and ability barriers

Client Testimonial

Thank you for your support and for delivering the Section 508-compliant translations. Overall, the planning and execution of our collaboration with you and your team went smoothly and pleasantly. Your team demonstrated responsiveness, accountability, and effective communication, which greatly contributed to a successful partnership. It was truly impressive.

Project Summary

Case Study on EnCompass Translation, Editing & Proofreading Services
  • Language Pair: English to Arabic, Spanish & French
  • Volume: 170,000 words
  • Service Type: Translation, Editing and Proofreading
  • Specialization: Legal-508 Compliance (Section 508 ensures that federal technology is accessible to people with disabilities, both employees and the public)

About the company, what were their requirements and why?

EnCompass is not just a women-owned business; it's a trailblazer in innovative, tailor-made solutions that redefine leadership, fortify capacity, provide technical assistance, and elevate the standards of monitoring and evaluation. With an extensive footprint spanning over 70 countries, EnCompass boasts a global team of over 1,300 dedicated professionals and consultants. Their partnership canvas extends across government and multilateral agencies, non-profit organizations, and corporations worldwide. They bring not only thought leadership but a rich tapestry of diversity and unwavering technical expertise in critical domains such as education, gender and inclusive development, global health, human rights, and food security.
The client was in search of a highly proficient translation vendor, one who could not only provide top-tier linguistic services but also ensure Section 508 compliance. They had a pressing need for translations and localizations of their digital content in Arabic, Spanish, and French, recognizing the significance of making their materials accessible to diverse audiences across different languages and abilities.

Challenges we overcame during the project

Global Voices, Local Impact: Section 508 Compliant Translation Triumph

We were entrusted with the monumental responsibility of translating our client's newsletters, press releases, brochures, presentations, blogs, and project summaries into Arabic, Spanish, and French. Among the client's most stringent demands was the requirement for the translations in all three languages to be 508 Compliant. This challenge was not merely an obligation; it was an absolutely critical endeavour.
The triumph of this undertaking rested on our unwavering commitment to delivering Section 508 Compliant Translation and Localization Services that would not just meet standards but also resonate with diverse language communities worldwide. Our success was not measured solely by compliance, but by our ability to bridge language gaps, empower inclusivity, and convey our client's message with impactful resonance across the globe.

The Intersection of Language and Design: Navigating 508 Compliance

To ensure a seamless transfer of meaning and understanding in translation, the inclusion of visual elements, including images and info graphics, takes on a pivotal role. It became an unwavering imperative to uphold uniform formatting throughout the source documents when embarking on the task of translating content into three distinct target languages. For this ambitious undertaking to yield the desired results, our devoted Desktop Publishing (DTP) team embarked on a mission to meticulously align the formatting of the InDesign target files in three diverse languages with the source material. This precision was not the sole challenge; we also committed ourselves to meeting the rigorous standards of Section 508 Compliance, further intertwining the intricacies of formatting requirements with the unwavering commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. Our mission was a multi-faceted one, where linguistic accuracy met visual coherence and accessibility, forging a path towards comprehensive and impactful communication across languages and communities.

Tracking the Path to Perfection: A Tale of 508 Compliant Review

In pursuit of the pinnacle of precision and excellence, our client initiated a rigorous review process for their Section 508 Compliant translation, mobilizing a battalion of internal and external reviewers. The need for a formidable tracking system became paramount in this intricate process, as it served as the linchpin for both parties to masterfully orchestrate the avalanche of deliverables.
This meticulous review phase was more than just a step; it was a symphony of expertise converging to ensure that each translated piece resonated with not only linguistic accuracy but also the spirit and intent of the original content. The tracking mechanism was the conductor's baton in this symphony, guiding the collaborative effort toward the crescendo of a flawless, impactful final product.

Solution provided by Ulatus to client

Mapping Success: Small Goals, Big Impact

At the start of this project, we set clear, achievable goals during a key kick-off call with our client. These goals formed a detailed plan for success. An experienced project manager led the project, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration among all stakeholders.
The project manager briefed our translators and Desktop Publishing (DTP) team, clarifying the project's importance and client expectations. This approach ensured we met and exceeded expectations.

Empowering Global Connections: Ulatus and Section 508 Localization

Ulatus excels in Section 508 compliant translations and localizations for digital content. We fully embrace Section 508 standards, ensuring every part of your project is accessible and inclusive. We follow government-issued checklists to guarantee compliance.
Our DTP experts translated alt text accurately and carefully translated headings and labels to guide users through the content. We ensured consistent translations that met Section 508 standards, creating an inclusive experience that connects with a global audience.

Linguistic Precision, Visual Harmony: A Winning Formula

Our tracking and review system ensured clear communication and progress tracking, allowing us to incorporate all changes and suggestions while maintaining consistent formatting. This system bridged linguistic adaptation and visual consistency.
To ensure Section 508 compliance, we provided a detailed Accessibility report with a checklist verifying all requirements were met. Our DTP experts used Adobe InDesign and Illustrator to align translations with the original content.
Our approach met diverse client needs, creating a visually appealing experience for all readers. By combining DTP expertise with translation, we ensured precise localization and maintained the professionalism of the source material. Each document section was checked for Section 508 Compliance to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.

Accomplishments

  • Accomplishing Section 508-compliant translations of precisely interpreted content, thereby enhancing accessibility and comprehension for a variety of language communities.
  • Achieved harmonious collaboration among project stakeholders, facilitating seamless communication and coordination, ultimately exceeding client expectations in a symphony of success.
  • Cultivated a strong client relationship, laying the foundation for securing future projects.

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