What does digital accessibility mean?
Digital accessibility means that websites, apps and other digital platforms are designed and developed in such a way that they can be used by people with different abilities and limitations.
By integrating accessibility into their products and services, companies can build a deeper empathy with their users. Understanding and meeting the needs of all people is not only an expression of respect and inclusion, but also essential for building trust and developing long-term customer relationships.
Elements of accessible digital products include, among others:
- assistive technologies such as screen readers
- keyboard shortcuts and tab sequences
- easier navigation
- legible typography
- accessible forms and graphics
- colour contrasts and design
- A/B tests with users who have specific access needs
- Alternative texts for images
- Use of clear and understandable language
The business case for accessibility
An inclusive and accessible design and content creation process not only increases the accessibility of digital products, but also boosts their market appeal by making them accessible to a broader user base. It enables companies to adapt flexibly and tap into new customer groups. A decisive lever here is the interdisciplinary collaboration between UX designers, IT developers and editors, which ensures the resilience of a product and its commercial success.
A digital presence that is accessible to all enhances the reach and accessibility of content and also optimises the overall user experience. It supports intuitive navigation and ensures clearly structured content, making it easier to interact with the digital environment. Accessible design also helps to fulfil important legal requirements.
This is particularly relevant due to the Accessibility Reinforcement Act, which comes into force in 2025 and stipulates that websites and mobile applications must be designed according to accessibility standards. By proactively implementing these requirements, companies not only ensure legal compliance, but also position themselves as responsible players in the digital space.
Excursus: Inclusive design
Inclusive design and language concern the feeling that content evokes in traditionally marginalised or underrepresented groups. Users need to feel welcome. If content contains images of people who resemble us, we perceive it as relevant. Relevant design is the cornerstone of engagement and interaction.
We can improve diversity by:
- being aware of personal and unconscious bias
- using respectful, gender-inclusive language (including gender-neutral wording)
- being mindful of gender and skin colour in icons and avatars
- the use of inclusive images of people with disabilities, minorities and marginalised groups
From a growth perspective, accessibility, diversity and inclusion are important ways to stay in touch with an expanding customer base. By prioritising inclusive design, we are not only creating a fairer world but also a more economically successful one.
Challenges for UX design and content creation
Designers and editors are faced with the challenge of recognising exclusion and prejudice in their work processes and consistently integrating accessibility. They are called upon to critically examine their own assumptions, develop clear principles for inclusive design and content creation and conduct objective UX research. This is essential to ensure that digital products and services are truly accessible and usable for all people.
Act now
We evaluate and optimise websites in accordance with legal requirements. Contact us to review your digital touchpoints and make them more inclusive and accessible.
Let’s create an online world together that is accessible and usable for everyone!
© Source: accessibilityspark
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