The quick fix with long-term consequences
Everyone is talking about overlay chatbots: they promise simple integration, quick results and modern customer communication. But behind the apparent convenience lie serious disadvantages - especially in terms of accessibility, data sovereignty and sustainability. While many companies rely on these "quick-fix" solutions, it is becoming increasingly clear that they do more harm than good. The EGOCMS chatbot proves that there is a better way.
Overlay chatbots: three central problems
1. accessibility? Not at all.
Overlay chatbots are placed as an external layer over a website - and that is precisely the problem:
- Keyboard traps: Users who are dependent on keyboard operation are often unable to leave the chatbot.
- Screen reader chaos: As overlays are often integrated as iFrames or JavaScript elements, screen readers do not recognise them correctly or read them out in the wrong order.
- Poor readability: Low contrasts, small fonts and unclear controls make it almost impossible for people with visual impairments or motor impairments to use.
- Distracting pop-ups: Unexpected overlays interrupt user guidance and confuse people with cognitive impairments in particular.
Conclusion: Instead of promoting inclusion, overlay chatbots create new barriers.
2. data sovereignty? A foreign word.
Most overlay chatbots come from third-party providers. That means:
- Data migrates: User data is transferred to external servers - often without clear control over who accesses it.
- GDPR risks: Who guarantees that personal data is processed securely and compliantly?
- Dependence on providers: Companies lose control over their own customer data.
Conclusion: Those who rely on overlay chatbots relinquish control over sensitive data.
3. sustainability? Rather not.
Overlay solutions are often resource-intensive:
- Unnecessary code ballast: external scripts and iFrames slow down the website and increase energy consumption.
- Short lifespan: Many providers change their solutions frequently - companies have to constantly readjust them.
Conclusion: Overlay chatbots are neither future-proof nor environmentally friendly.
EGOCMS chatbot: the better alternative
The EGOCMS chat bot is not an overlay, but an integrated part of the CMS - and solves exactly the problems that other chatbots cause:
✅ Truly barrier-free:
- Fully embedded in the website structure - no keyboard traps, no screen reader problems.
- WCAG-compliant with high contrast, scalable fonts and clear operating logic.
✅ Full data sovereignty:
- All data remains on our own servers - no transfer to third-party providers.
- GDPR-compliant from the ground up.
✅ S ustainable and efficient:
- No superfluous code that slows down the website.
- Long-lasting solution that grows with the CMS.
- Small models that are customised to requirements
Conclusion: Why compromise when you can do it right?
Overlay chatbots may seem practical at first glance, but they are not barrier-free, not data-sovereign and not sustainable.
The EGOCMS chatbot shows what a modern, inclusive and future-proof chatbot solution looks like - without compromising on usability, data protection or performance.
Do you want a chatbot that really works?