The internet and information technologies enable quick and easy access to information, communication, entertainment and consumer offers - even on the move via smartphone. The use of web content in both private and professional contexts is now an important part of life and the world of work - provided you have the privilege of being able to use this content without restrictions. Digital inclusion is an issue that is not yet part of the standard digital platforms and services.
Spoiler: This will change in the near future - companies will be obliged to ensure digital accessibility for online services such as e-commerce and online banking from 2025 when the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) comes into force. You can find out more about the new legal requirements and their implementation in this article.
The status quo
Since May 2019, public institutions in Germany have had to present their online content in an accessible way and ensure that it can be used and accessed without restrictions. These regulations for IT accessibility are set out in various guidelines. You can find the latest status (2023) of the binding requirements for digital accessibility in the following official sources:
Disability Equality Act (BGG)
The Disability Equality Act (BGG) is a key legal instrument for promoting accessibility for people with disabilities in Germany. It lays down the basic principles and requirements to ensure the equal participation of people with disabilities in various areas of life.
Barrier-free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV 2.0)
The Barrier-free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV 2.0) is a specific German regulation that was issued as part of the BGG. It specifies the requirements for the accessibility of digital information and communication technologies, particularly on government websites. It serves to ensure equal access to digital content and services. For example, it offers a checklist to ensure digital accessibility.
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) and PDF/UA standard
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) and the PDF/UA standard are globally recognized guidelines and standards for improving the accessibility of web content and PDF documents. They serve as an important basis for the design and testing of accessible digital content.
European standard EN 301 549
The European Standard EN 301 549 is an international standard relating to the accessibility of information technology and communication services in the European Union. This standard harmonizes requirements, facilitates trade in accessible products and services in the EU and supports the implementation of the European Accessibility Act.
European Accessibility Act
The European Accessibility Act is an EU directive that promotes the accessibility of products and services for people with disabilities throughout the European Union. It aims to ensure a uniform and higher level of accessibility in various areas.
What will change for my company in 2025?
Companies that are not public institutions are not yet legally obliged to make their digital content accessible. However, this will change in 2025 when the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) comes into force.
The Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz is German legislation that transposes the above-mentioned EU directives on accessibility into national law and specifies the requirements of the European Accessibility Act at national level. It strengthens the obligations to ensure accessibility in Germany.
The BFSG therefore sets out binding requirements for barrier-free access to services and products such as ATMs, self-service terminals, e-book readers, online banking and e-commerce. The law also includes a market surveillance authority, which can prohibit the sale of services or products in the event of non-compliance after appropriate deadlines. It is therefore advisable to consider this issue today and integrate it into the technology, design and content strategy.
How do I create digital accessibility?
Here are some steps to optimize web content to create digital accessibility on your platform:
Image descriptions and alt texts
Ensure that images and graphics on your website are accompanied by accurate and meaningful alternative text that is understandable to screen readers. This allows blind or visually impaired users to perceive what is shown on the content.
Headings and semantic HTML code
Use headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.) and semantic HTML code to make the structure of your website clear and understandable. This makes navigation easier for users with screen readers and ensures a consistent hierarchy. At the same time, this is also an important ranking factor for search engines.
Contrast
Make sure that text, click areas and graphics on your website offer sufficient contrast to the background to increase readability. This is particularly important for people with visual impairments.
Keyboard accessibility
Make sure that all functions of your website are accessible without using a mouse. Make sure that users can easily perform all interactions with the keyboard and that the keyboard sequence is correct.
Subtitles and transcripts
Generate subtitles for video content and create transcripts for audio content. This supports deaf and hard-of-hearing users and also provides unrestricted access for people who prefer to consume content without sound.
Check for accessibility
Use accessibility testing tools and services to ensure that your website meets the applicable accessibility standards. A well-known tool for this is the WAVE web accessibility checker, for example.
Accessible forms
Create forms that are compatible with screen readers and ensure that any error message is clear and precise even when using these tools.
Accessible navigation
Ensure that the navigation on your website is clear and consistent to make it easier for users with screen readers to find their way around.
Scalable fonts
Design your website so that the font size can be easily enlarged or reduced without affecting readability.
Test phases with a user group
Test your website with real users with disabilities to ensure it is accessible and meets the needs of this user group.
Training and awareness raising
Train your team and raise awareness of accessibility to ensure that the principles of digital accessibility are integrated into your work processes across teams.
Start implementing digital accessibility by 2024 at the latest. Once again: On June 28, 2025, the Accessibility Reinforcement Act will come into force - this means that digital accessibility is no longer optional and can even be sanctioned for non-compliance.
Companies that are already addressing the issue of accessibility today will not only secure a time buffer for the implementation of digital accessibility, but will also create a competitive advantage by including new target groups.
Our diva-e experts will be happy to support you in optimizing the content of your digital platform in order to jointly create an optimal accessible set-up before 2025.
