Today’s post compares how JAWS 2025, a leading screen reader, handles an untagged, scanned PDF file versus the same file processed through DocAccess, a platform designed to improve digital accessibility. We tested an excerpt from a California wildflowers textbook prepared for a student with a visual impairment.
Video Guide
Testing a Scanned PDF with JAWS
The original file was a scanned PDF with no tags or embedded text, meaning screen readers could not interpret the document without first running it through an OCR tool. The OCR process took six to seven minutes to complete one page.
After OCR, JAWS attempted to read the text. The results were inconsistent and difficult to follow:
- The original scan gave us fragmented text recognition.
- The reading flow skipped from line to line without a logical sequence.
- The headings, paragraphs, and images were not recognized or structured.
The delay and resulting errors made the document unusable for accurate reading or navigation. An Accessibility Guy FAIL.
Testing DocAccess with JAWS
The same document, when uploaded to DocAccess, became immediately usable with JAWS. The platform automatically generates an accessible transcript view that allows smooth navigation, consistent reading, and clear structure.
DocAccess instantly provides:
- Full keyboard navigation
- Compatibility with screen reader shortcuts
- A searchable transcript with heading structure
- AI-powered question and answer support
- Document outline and section navigation
- Translation into over 150 languages
- Free 30-minute access to AIRA, a visual interpreter service
JAWS users can read the content using arrow keys, navigate between sections with hotkeys, and use standard screen reader commands (like “Insert + F6” to bring up a heading list). It was great to see that all headings were tagged properly, and the screen reader moved fluidly from section to section.
The content was also read in the correct order. List items and section titles were recognized and announced clearly. The platform also supported quick navigation by heading, page, or section using keyboard commands. We didn’t have to OCR the file. It was fully accessible from the start.
An Accessibility Guy WIN!
DocAccess Features for Screen Reader Users
DocAccess includes built-in features that improve document accessibility:
- Jump to specific sections or pages
- Read full content using arrow navigation
- Ask questions directly related to the document
- Use heading and structure recognition
- Access a complete shortcut menu via the “?” key
As we’ve just seen, the platform supports screen reader software such as JAWS and provides intuitive, responsive controls. Its interface uses predictable keyboard behaviors, which makes navigation feel familiar for experienced users.
DocAccess is built for high-volume document remediation. It supports organizations working to meet Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. The service handles bulk uploads efficiently and processes inaccessible documents into fully screen-reader-compatible versions at low cost.
For institutions with large repositories of scanned PDFs, such as schools, government offices, or businesses, DocAccess offers a scalable and time-saving solution.
TL;DR Screen Reader Test Outcome
With JAWS and a standard OCR process, the scanned PDF delivered poor results. Even after several minutes of processing, the document lacked usable structure and produced broken, hard-to-follow output. Headings, sections, and logical reading flow were missing.
After uploading the same file into DocAccess, the screen reader accessed a well-structured version instantly. The transcript included correct heading structure, clean reading flow, and immediate responsiveness to keyboard commands. JAWS users could navigate the document without delays, guesswork, or interruptions.
Organizations aiming to meet accessibility standards can use DocAccess to convert scanned PDFs into structured, screen-reader-friendly documents efficiently and reliably.
Let me be your champion for inclusion. I offer tailored solutions (and self-paced courses!) to ensure your documents meet and exceed compliance expectations. For more detailed insights, tutorials, and in-depth discussions on accessibility and related topics, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel: The Accessibility Guy on YouTube. Subscribe for regular updates!
