Fastool Now: Elevating the Construction Tool Industry Through Digital Accessibility

Introduction: A Mission of Exceptional Support and Speed

Fastool Now stands as a beacon of customer-centricity in the construction tool industry. With over 30 years of experience, their mission is to provide exceptional support and quick shipping, facilitated by a knowledgeable staff and cutting-edge technology. Recognizing the importance of an accessible and user-friendly online experience, Fastool Now partnered with Zenyth for a full audit and remediation of their BigCommerce platform.

Scope of Work: Comprehensive and Collaborative Accessibility Solutions

Our engagement with Fastool Now was multi-faceted, involving several key components to ensure an accessible and optimal user experience:

• Full Audit and Remediation: Conducted a thorough audit and managed the remediation of all identified defects on the BigCommerce platform.
• Third-Party Coordination: Collaborated with third-party development companies to align development schedules and deployments.
• Client Collaboration: Worked with Fastool Now to implement non-accessibility related fixes while managing accessibility remediation.
• Accessible Features: Implemented entirely new accessible product image carousels and forms.
• Advanced Media Integration: Seamlessly integrated YouTube embedded videos into a product carousel and lightbox, ensuring accessibility compliance.
• SearchSpring Integration: Remediated SearchSpring integrations through Angular templates, in collaboration with SearchSpring help desk.
• Plugin Consultation: Audited and consulted on the addition of new third-party plugins concerning their accessibility.
• Design and Usability: Added additional design elements to improve the overall look, feel, and user experience.
• Responsive Design: Addressed and fixed numerous responsive design issues.
• Ongoing Compliance and Monitoring: Focused on implementing descriptive transcripts, improving image alternative text, and monitoring site updates.

Accessibility Implementation: Advanced Refactoring for WCAG 2.1 Level AA Compliance

In our commitment to digital inclusivity, we undertook an extensive accessibility implementation process that went beyond basic features. This involved the advanced refactoring of complex website components, such as carousels, to ensure full compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards. By meticulously redesigning these intricate elements, we were able to provide an accessible user experience without compromising on functionality or design aesthetics.

Prioritizing Accessibility in App and Plugin Selection: A Research-Driven Approach

At Zenyth, we understand that achieving digital accessibility is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. It requires meticulous research and a commitment to finding the best solutions that align with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards. Our approach to app and plugin selection was evidence of this commitment.

Research-First Methodology

We initiated the process by conducting in-depth research on available apps and plugins that could potentially meet the project's requirements. This involved evaluating their accessibility features, compatibility, and overall performance.

Rigorous Compliance Checks and Vendor Communication

Once we identified the best possible solution, we took an extra step by communicating directly with the vendor. Our aim was to collaborate with them to enhance their offering to meet our accessibility criteria. If the vendor was unwilling or unable to make the necessary adjustments, we listed the remaining issues as known limitations. This transparent approach ensured that all stakeholders were aware of any constraints, allowing for informed decision-making.

Collaborative Development Strategy

After the ideal app or plugin was identified and vetted, we worked closely with the development teams involved. We oriented them on best practices for implementing these solutions in an accessibility-compliant manner. This ensured that the selected apps and plugins were not just added to the tech stack but were integrated in a way that enhanced the website's overall accessibility.

Through this research-driven and collaborative approach, we ensured that every digital solution we implemented was aligned with our commitment to creating an accessible digital environment.

Accessibility as a Catalyst for Improvement

One of the most rewarding outcomes of this project was the client's acknowledgment that the accessibility fixes have not only made the site compliant but have also significantly improved its overall usability and styling.

Conclusion: Setting a New Standard in the Construction Tool Industry

Through its partnership with Zenyth, Fastool Now has not only met but exceeded the standards for digital accessibility, setting a new benchmark in the construction tool industry. This case study serves as a compelling example of how a commitment to digital accessibility can significantly enhance the quality of services offered. By adhering to WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards and committing to ongoing compliance and monitoring, Fastool Now ensures that its exceptional customer service and product offerings are accessible to a broad and diverse customer base.

Tech Stack used for Development

• BigCommerce
• Stencil Engine
• Handlebars
• Angular
• SCSS
• HTML
• JavaScript