Accessibility means that websites, apps, and digital content are usable by everyone, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive limitations. The goal is to design digital offerings so that users with visual impairments, hearing difficulties, motor limitations, or learning challenges can access them without barriers.
Who defines accessibility rules?
The internationally recognized standards for accessibility are set by the W3C Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). The main guidelines are the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), currently version 2.1. They provide concrete recommendations for:
- Structured content and headings
- Alternative text for images
- Contrast and color design
- Keyboard and screen reader usability
- Subtitles and transcripts for multimedia
Country-specific regulations
Whether and how accessibility is legally required varies by country:
- Germany: Accessible websites are mandatory for authorities, public institutions, and certain businesses (BITV 2.0, Disability Equality Act).
- Switzerland: The Disability Equality Act (BehiG) and web accessibility guidelines (WCAG-compliant) apply to federal, cantonal, and public institutions.
- EU: Directive 2016/2102 requires public authorities to make their digital offerings accessible, using WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the standard.
- USA: The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) may also apply to websites, especially those publicly accessible or engaged in commerce.
Why accessibility matters
- Increases your website’s reach to users with limitations
- Improves usability for all users, not just people with disabilities
- Positive impact on SEO, as structured and semantic content is better read by search engines
- Meets legal requirements and reduces legal risk
Best practices for accessible websites
- Alt text for all images
- Test contrasts and colors
- Clear, consistent navigation
- Subtitles and transcripts for videos
- Enable keyboard navigation
- Semantic HTML structure (h1–h6, ARIA roles)
Conclusion
Accessibility is more than a trend – it ensures digital content is available to everyone. By following international standards such as WCAG and complying with country-specific regulations, you can make your website user-friendly, legally compliant, and SEO-friendly. At aurelix, I ensure accessibility is integrated into web design and development from the start.
Image: freepik.com