APH Production Process: Tests in Braille and Tactile Graphics

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How are standardized tests produced in braille and tactile graphics at APH?

1. Contract Administration—The client contacts Contract Administration for a free, no obligation quote. Pricing is based on estimated braille page counts, including graphics, the number of copies required and other client specifications.
   
   
2. Test Editing—Editors review the original test and discuss accessibility issues with the client. Making items accessible sometimes requires changing the layout of the item, providing labels or descriptions for graphics, or requesting equivalent substitute items. Test editors then prepare notes for transcribers that indicate the client's approved changes.
   
   
3. Braille Transcription—Braille transcribers certified by National Library Service translate the test and ensure that it is transcribed according to braille rules established by the Braille Authority of North America.
   
   
4. Tactile Graphics—APH graphic artists work with the test editors to customize needed tactile diagrams.
   
   
5. Proof Copy—The items are brailled, tactile graphics are created and an initial proof copy of the test is run.
   
   
6. Braille Proofreading—The initial copy of the test is proofread, corrections are made, and a second phase of proofreading/correcting is completed. An experienced, certified braille expert then completes a quality control check.
   
   
7. Test Administration Notes—A final proof copy goes to the Accessible Tests Department where the editors review it and prepare Test Administration (TA) Notes. TA Notes reflect changes to the print copy, provide print and braille page correlations and other significant information. TA Notes are provided as required by the client.
   
   
8. Final Test Copies—Requested quantities of the test are produced, and a final quality check of the copies is completed.
   
   
9. Shipping—Copies of tests in accessible media are securely shipped overnight.
   
   

How long does the entire process usually take?

• Editing, Transcribers' Notes, Customer Approval—Approximately 1-2 weeks
  
  
• Braille Translation & Tactile Graphics—Approximately 3-4 weeks
  
  
• First and Second Proofreadings and Corrections—Approximately 1-2 weeks
  
  
• Quality Control—Approximately 1 week
  
  
• Test Administration Notes—Up to 1 week
  
  
• Production and Shipping—Approximately 1-2 weeks
  
  

Entire Process: Approximately 8-12 Weeks

What factors might affect the braille test production timeline?

• Number of graphics
  
  
• Number of copies ordered
  
  
• Editorial changes needed
  
  
• Production method used
  
  
• Timeliness of communications between APH and client
  
  

What are ways to help keep the accessible media production schedule running smoothly?

• In the contract between test publisher and state/district, allow ample time for review and production of alternative media.
  
  
• Consider one or more group teleconferences to review specifications and expectations, and to discuss project status.
  
  
• Provide APH contract administrator with current copies of the test booklets.
  
  
• Provide the name and contact information of the project point person who will be available for questions and final edit approvals, and maintain communication via telephone, email or secure site.
  
  

Contact Us

• For free estimates, to discuss production of tests in accessible media or to request a review of test items, contact our Contract Administration staff at 1-800-223-1839
  
  
• For test-related publications, catalog products, resources, workshops, surveys, survey results and more, visit www.aph.org/tests/index.html
  
  
• For general test-related issues, email tests@aph.org
  
  

APH's mission is to promote independence of blind and visually impaired persons by providing specialized materials, products, and services needed for education and life.

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