In our increasingly digitalized world, access to the Internet is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. For people with disabilities, however, this access can be restricted by numerous barriers.
Web accessibility is therefore not just a question of technology, but also one of social commitment and legal obligation. In view of the upcoming change in the law in 2025 with the Barrier-Free Strengthening Act (BFSG), it is high time for companies and web developers to make their websites and online services accessible to all.
Background and context
Web accessibility means that websites, tools and technologies are designed and developed so that people with disabilities can use them.
This includes a wide range of disabilities, including visual impairments, hearing impairments, motor skills and cognitive impairments. Temporary limitations should not be ignored here either: A broken arm, for example, also leads to limitations in using a keyboard and mouse. And last but not least, situational disabilities (e.g. child in arms) are also possible reasons for limited use.
In Germany alone, it is estimated that there are almost 8 million people with disabilities. That is almost 10% of the population (source: Federal Statistical Office)
The key points
To ensure accessibility, web content must follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The standard currently used internationally is WCAG 2.2(https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG22/) and is constantly being developed further. WCAG 2.2 comprises a total of 55 criteria, which are derived from the following principles:
- Perceivability
- Usability
- Comprehensibility
- Robustness
For example, texts should be readable with screen readers, videos should have subtitles and all functions should be accessible via the keyboard.
In order to meet these success criteria, good coordination is required between the perspectives of design & layout, user experience, technology & development and editorial content. Authors, developers and designers play a key role in creating accessible websites and content.
Does that sound complicated? It doesn't have to be. Let's have a chat and find out how we can get your website ready for the Accessibility Improvement Act together. You can reach us at: kaffee@punkt.de
Products and services are barrier-free if they can be found, accessed and used by people with disabilities in the usual way, without particular difficulty and generally without outside help.
From the Accessibility Reinforcement Act Section 2, §3(1)
Implementing accessible features can be as simple as adapting the website design to accommodate color blindness or as complex as developing voice interface systems for users with motor impairments. Future solutions also include the use of specific HTML and ARIA landmarks, providing alternative text for images and ensuring appropriate color contrasts.
For further insights into the topic, we also recommend the blog article by our partner agency made in, which examines the topic of accessibility on the web from a design and UX/UI perspective.
Alternative perspectives
Some companies may shy away from the cost and effort of adapting their websites.
However, studies show that improving accessibility is not only ethical, but also economically beneficial, as it enables access for a wider user base. For example, online stores can expand their target groups and therefore also increase their customer base.
In addition, there are possible penalties that can be imposed for non-compliance with the Accessibility Reinforcement Act. In addition to severe fines, it should even be possible to prohibit the operation of the website.
Conclusion
All in all, it remains to be said: It makes sense to have a low-barrier presence on the web: for your own competitive advantage and also for the users of the website!
With the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) in 2025, accessibility on the web will change from a recommended practice to a legal requirement. This step is crucial to creating an inclusive digital world in which everyone can participate without restrictions.
It's time for web developers, designers and website operators to take the necessary steps to make their online offerings accessible to all.
Is your website ready for accessibility?
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences on implementing web accessibility with us. Let's work together for a more accessible digital future.
You can reach us at: kaffee@punkt.de
Keywords: accessibility, web development, WCAG, inclusion, digital accessibility, Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG), ARIA landmarks
