Digital accessibility: This is how we improve access for everyone!

Digital accessibility: This is how we improve access for everyone!

For many people, using the Internet is a given. Whether for news, online shopping or booking appointments – digital services have become indispensable in everyday life. But people with certain disabilities often face significant hurdles. Accessibility on the Internet is therefore a central issue that encompasses not only technical aspects, but also social challenges. According to ZVW, access to online offerings for people with disabilities is often made difficult by unclear structures, long texts and a wealth of technical terms.

Digital accessibility is a key to an inclusive society. Regardless of physical or mental abilities, it is important that everyone has equal access to digital resources. In June 2022, there were around 7.8 million severely disabled people living in Germany who are affected by the challenges in the digital world, as the platform gehirnrechte.digital reports.

Legal framework

A crucial step towards improving digital accessibility is the Accessibility Strengthening Act, which comes into force on June 28, 2025. It obliges the private sector to provide barrier-free websites and online shops. The implementation is determined by compliance with EN 301 549 and the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). These standards provide different levels of compliance, with only the intermediate (AA) and lowest (A) relevant to the private sector.

• Barrierefreie Websites sollten folgende Kriterien erfüllen:
• 200 % Zoomfähigkeit
• Richtige Kontrastverhältnisse
• Bereitstellung von Untertiteln oder Alternativtexten für audiovisuelle Inhalte
• Tastaturzugänglichkeit für alle Funktionen

Digital barriers influence different user groups. For example, people with visual impairments need high-contrast colors and screen readers, while people with hearing problems benefit from subtitles and transcriptions. Additionally, those with motor disabilities require alternative input methods and those with cognitive limitations require simple language and visual aids.

Benefits of Accessibility

An accessible website can not only appeal to a wider audience, but also significantly improve the user experience. In addition, accessibility helps to optimize findability in search engines and can increase the time spent on websites. According to ZVW, implementation is an important aspect that providers of e-commerce and appointment booking services must advance by 2025, with small providers being exempt from the regulation.

Technological advances, such as the use of artificial intelligence, open up new ways to improve digital accessibility. Verification tools, such as automated tools like WAVE and manual methods, help identify and remove barriers efficiently.

In summary, digital accessibility is a significant concern that not only has legal implications, but is also crucial for social participation and the quality of life of many people. Early action is necessary to ensure equal access to digital services for all citizens.