Section 508 Life Cycle Insertion Points

The most efficient and cost-effective approach to delivery of accessible technology is facilitated when Section 508 is integrated into the acquisition life cycle, the software development life cycle and governance processes.

Insertion points span activities occurring in the vision and strategy phase through deployment. There are specific Section 508 insertion points throughout IT life cycle management (end-to-end processes of acquiring, installing, maintaining, tracking and retirement of assets). Consideration of Section 508 requirements at each insertion point supports successful product and application integration into the IRS environment.

The IT Life Cycle insertion points include the insertion points listed below. See Exhibit 2.30.1-1 Resources, Section 508 Insertion Point Summary Table for Information and Communication Technology for more detailed information about navigating the procedures and artifacts associated with each insertion point.

Acquisitions (buy accessible products and services)

Product Approval and Intake Process (EA ESP CR Process)

Design and Development

Testing and Integration

The acquisition life cycle supports the IRS mission by providing processes to procure, validate and deploy accessible ICT. The process helps ensure IRS purchase the most conforming products and services that meet business needs. The acquisition insertion point ensures accessibility needs are identified and addressed through every phase of the IT life cycle.

The acquisition life cycle is broken down between pre-award and post-award phases.

The Pre-Award Phase includes the following activities. For additional information see Exhibit 2.30.1-1 Resources, Section 508.gov and GSA Resources, Section 508 Insertion Point Summary Table for Information and Communication Technology, Section 508 Requisition Reviews, and Procurement Resources.

Determine Accessibility Requirements

Conduct Market Research

Request Accessibility Information from Vendors

Develop Solicitation Language

Evaluate Proposals

Upon completion of the acquisition package and where the ICT exceeds the dollar threshold identified in IRM 1.35.4.3.10, Information and Communication Technology Buys, the requiring activity should follow the Section 508 Requisition Reviews Process. IRAP review is required per IRS Acquisition Policy Subpart 1039.2, Electronic and Information Technology and IRM 2.21.1.10(5), Obtain Requirements Reviews and Approvals. IRAP will provide subject matter expert guidance to the requiring activity during the pre-award phase activities to include: Determine Accessibility Requirements, Conduct Market Research and Request Accessibility Information from Vendors. The requiring activity is responsible for conducting these activities.