What does digital accessibility mean?
Digital accessibility ensures that all people with and without disabilities have access to the content and functions of the internet. It includes a variety of measures to ensure that people with visual, hearing or motor impairments as well as older people and people with temporary disabilities do not experience any barriers. This is not just about meeting legal requirements, but also about improving the user experience for a broad target group.
Accessible digital content
In the digital age, accessibility is essential - not only to meet legal requirements, but also to enable an inclusive and user-friendly digital experience. When the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) comes into force in 2025, companies will be obliged to make their digital offerings accessible. The aim is to include all people regardless of their abilities and make it easier for them to access digital content. This applies to websites, mobile applications, documents and much more.
Relevance and legal basis
The BGG and the EU Directive 2019/882 (European Accessibility Act) oblige companies that offer their products and services digitally to make them accessible from June 28, 2025. Websites, apps and online stores must comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) Level AA. This means, among other things:
- Texts and content: Visual content such as images and videos must be provided with alternative text or subtitles so that they can also be perceived by people with visual or hearing impairments.
- Contrasts and colors: Sufficient contrast between text and background improves readability, especially for older or visually impaired people.
- Navigation: User guidance must be designed in such a way that it can be operated without a mouse to facilitate access for people with motor impairments.
The law also obliges companies to publish an accessibility statement on their websites and offer a contact option for users to report barriers. Violations can result in severe penalties and even the discontinuation of the digital offering.
Benefits for companies and users
Accessibility is not only a legal obligation, but also offers companies considerable advantages. Accessible design opens up new target groups and increases customer satisfaction. People with disabilities and older users represent a growing user group that is increasingly dependent on accessible digital offerings.
In addition, all users benefit from improved usability. Clear structures, easy-to-read texts and simple navigation elements ensure that websites are intuitive to use and offer a positive user experience. This in turn strengthens customer loyalty and reduces bounce rates.
How do you implement accessibility?
Implementing digital accessibility requires technical expertise and well thought-out planning. Pluswerk offers comprehensive consulting and testing services to test your digital offerings for accessibility and adapt them to the legal requirements. Our measures include
- Analysis and audit: we check your existing website or application for accessibility and identify potential barriers. Ask now for our accessibility quick check with no obligation.
- Individual solutions: Based on the analysis, we develop customized solutions to remove barriers and ensure accessibility for all users.
- Training and advice: Our experts train your teams in the principles of accessibility and support you in the continuous optimization of your digital presence.
By planning and implementing measures at an early stage, you can not only meet the requirements of the BFSG, but also improve the user experience for all visitors to your website.