Unveiling Challenges in Information Systems to Support Workplace Accommodation for Individuals With Visual Impairments: an Accessibility Analysis of a Web-based ERP

Context: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have become increasingly important to help manage a company’s processes. A corporate system such as ERP can bring many benefits to the company when it is accessible to all workers, such as improved productivity for its employees. Problem: The lack of accessibility in this type of software can cause several problems for both their employees and the company itself. Solution: Thus, this work aims to evaluate accessibility problems in an ERP system, analyzing the difficulties of people with visual impairments who use this type of software in their daily lives. Theoretical foundation: The study draws from the theories of Inclusive Design and the Work Functioning Theory to discuss the impact that accessibility problems have on limiting how people with visual impairments may perform their work in corporate environments due to limitations in Information Systems. Method: This research encompassed a detailed analysis of accessibility in ERP software, following the WCAG 2.1 success criteria, adopting both a quantitative and qualitative approach. The study offers an inspection of the accessibility conformance of the software to international guidelines. Summary of Results: In the accessibility inspection following WCAG guidelines, 53.84% failed, mainly due to inadequate support for screen reading, hindering the productivity of people with disabilities. This negatively impacts the job market, limiting hiring by companies that do not prioritize accessibility in their software. Contributions and Impact in the IS area: This study provides insights to improve accessibility in ERP systems, promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in work environments that use these systems, aligning with Work Functioning Theory.