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Achieving Outstanding Web Accessibility
The ongoing digitalization increasingly demands barrier-free website design to ensure access for all user groups. Web accessibility is not only a moral obligation today but also legally required—especially in the EU. The EU Directive 2016/2102 mandates that public institutions design their websites and apps to be accessible. Better usability plays a crucial role, ensuring that all users—regardless of their abilities—can navigate and use a website without difficulties. But what exactly does accessibility mean, and how can businesses successfully implement these standards?
What is Web Accessibility?
Web accessibility means that all people—regardless of physical impairments—can access websites and online content without barriers. This includes:
- Visual barriers: Support for people with visual impairments, such as screen readers, alt texts, and high-contrast colors.
- Motor barriers: Keyboard navigation for users who cannot use a mouse.
- Auditory barriers: Providing subtitles and transcripts for videos and audio content.
- Cognitive barriers: Clear and simple language as well as intuitive navigation.
EU Directive on Web Accessibility: Key Requirements
According to EU Directive 2016/2102, public websites and apps must be accessible. This regulation applies to all levels of public institutions and requires compliance with four key principles:
- Perceivability – Content must be accessible through all senses.
- Operability – The website must be easy to navigate and use.
- Understandability – Content and interfaces should be clear and comprehensible.
- Robustness – The website must be compatible with all assistive technologies.
How to Implement Accessibility on Your Website
Creating an accessible website requires careful planning and continuous improvement. Here are the key steps:
- Audit & Analysis – Check your website for accessibility barriers using tools like the WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool or Google Accessibility Checker.
- Planning & Strategy – Develop an action plan, prioritize tasks, and set clear timelines.
- Implementation & Testing – Integrate accessible design principles and regularly test your website—ideally with users with disabilities.
- Training & Awareness – Educate your team and raise awareness about the importance of accessibility.
- Maintenance & Updates – Regularly update your website to stay compliant with new accessibility standards.
Benefits of an Accessible Website
An accessible website provides multiple benefits:
✔ Expanded Reach – Your website becomes accessible to 80 million EU citizens with disabilities.
✔ Improved User Experience – A more user-friendly design benefits all visitors.
✔ SEO Advantages – Accessible websites are better structured and rank higher in search engines.
✔ Legal Compliance – Avoid legal consequences and penalties for non-compliance.
✔ Brand Strengthening – Show social responsibility, foster inclusivity, and build trust.
Success Story: City of Munich
A great example of successful accessibility implementation is the City of Munich’s website. By thoroughly reviewing and adapting its content to meet EU Directive 2016/2102, the city significantly improved its digital accessibility. This led to increased user engagement and positive feedback from citizens.
Conclusion: Accessibility as an Obligation & Opportunity
Web accessibility is not only a legal requirement but also a great opportunity to increase your website’s reach and usability. By implementing EU Directive 2016/2102, you will attract more users, enhance brand reputation, and improve user experience for everyone.
