Why digital accessibility?
Digital accessibility means that digital content is accessible and usable for all people, regardless of their individual abilities. This applies not only to people with disabilities, but also to senior citizens, people with different language skills and children. In Germany, at least eight million people are dependent on accessible digital services.
Advantages for all users
Accessible websites offer numerous advantages:
- Extended target group: Accessible design allows you to reach more users, including people with temporary or situational restrictions.
- Competitive advantages: A well-designed, accessible website can strengthen your competitiveness and open up new customer groups.
- Social responsibility: Accessibility shows that your company takes social responsibility and inclusion seriously.
- Legal obligations: Public institutions and, from mid-2025, private-sector companies will also have to implement digital accessibility.
Legal framework conditions
The legal basis for digital accessibility is anchored in various directives and laws:
- Web Accessibility Directive (WAD): This European directive sets out minimum requirements for the accessible design of digital products and services of public organisations.
- European Accessibility Act (EAA): From 2025, private sector digital products and services must also be accessible.
- Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG): This German law implements the requirements of the EAA and affects products such as computers and smartphones as well as services and communication offerings.
Standards and guidelines
The European standard EN 301549 and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are central standards for digital accessibility. The WCAG define three conformance levels (A, AA, AAA), with conformance level AA being the minimum requirement in the EU.
Implementation and verification
Public organisations must publish an accessibility statement for their websites and set up a feedback mechanism so that users can report barriers. There are also enforcement procedures for checking accessibility.
Social significance
Accessible digital services are a basic prerequisite for the participation of all people in the digital world. Companies should not view accessibility as an additional offering, but as an integral part of their digital strategy.
Conclusion
Digital accessibility is an important step towards inclusion and offers numerous benefits for companies and users alike. By implementing the legal requirements and standards, companies can strengthen their competitiveness and contribute to an inclusive society.
For more information and a checklist for implementing accessibility on websites, we recommend the website of the REHADAT project.
Stay tuned for more articles on the basic principles of accessible web development, technical basics and tips for checking accessibility.