CanadaBuys #100032851

ESDC RFI on accessibility readiness for technology and AI systems

Employment and Social Development Canada is gathering industry input on accessibility readiness across digital technology products and AI systems. - Government buyer: Government of Canada, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC); no more specific office is identified. - Notice purpose: Request for Information (RFI) and market research only—not a tender or bid solicitation, and it will not result in a contract award. - Products and services: No products, services, part numbers, or quantities are being purchased. ESDC seeks information about accessibility capabilities and practices for software, hardware, integrated systems, and AI. - OEMs and product examples: Microsoft (Windows, Word, Teams, and PowerPoint) and Adobe (Acrobat Reader) are named, alongside macOS, Linux, JAWS, NVDA, and WordPress. These are illustrative examples, not identified suppliers or requested line items. - Key requirements and topics: Respondents are asked about conformance with accessibility standards, accessibility across design through deployment, documentation, procurement requirements, third-party dependencies, implementation barriers, and participation by people with disabilities in development and testing. The RFI also asks about readiness for potential future requirements under the Accessible Canada Act. - Referenced standards and guidance: CAN/ASC-EN 301 549:2024, WCAG, Section 508, and CAN/ASC-6.2 for accessible and equitable AI systems.

Description

Employment and Social Development Canada is seeking information from digital technology vendors and suppliers about accessibility capabilities, practices, implementation challenges, and readiness related to software, hardware, and artificial intelligence systems. The information will help inform the next phase of Digital Technologies Accessibility Regulations under the Accessible Canada Act. Respondents are asked to describe accessibility standards conformance, how accessibility is incorporated throughout product lifecycles, barriers, and organizational readiness for potential future requirements. This is an RFI, not a call for tender or bid solicitation, and no contract will be awarded based on responses.

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