Accessibility by Design: Training

The WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) are based on four fundamental principles (“POUR”): Perceivable (content must be perceivable through various senses), Operable (navigation and functions must be usable via the keyboard, for example), Understandable (content, language, and operational logic should be clear and predictable), and Robust (code must be clean enough to function reliably with different browsers and assistive technologies).

The most reliable approach is a combination of automated checks and manual testing: Use tools like Lighthouse, axe, and WAVE for quick insights (e.g., missing alt text, contrast issues), then manually test the entire user interface using only the keyboard (tab order, visible focus, menus/modal dialogs accessible), check contrast and zoom/responsiveness (up to 200–400%), and perform spot checks with screen readers (e.g., NVDA/VoiceOver) for heading structure, form labels, and error messages. When it comes to legal compliance, follow EN 301 549 (the authoritative standard in Europe) or the WCAG A/AA criteria referenced therein.

Accessibility in HTML means, above all, semantically correct markup so that assistive technologies can “understand” content: a true heading hierarchy (h1–h6), meaningful landmarks (nav, main, footer), correctly labeled forms (label/aria-labelledby), descriptive link text, a logical table structure, and alternative text for informative images. ARIA is a supplementary tool (not a substitute for semantics) and should only be used when native HTML elements do not support the desired interaction.

Web accessibility means that websites and web apps are usable by as many people as possible, regardless of disabilities (e.g., visual or hearing impairments, motor impairments, cognitive barriers) or situational conditions (e.g., poor lighting, one-handed use, slow connection). In practice, this means: content is perceivable, the interface works without a mouse, information is presented in an understandable way, and the technical implementation is robust enough to support browsers and assistive technologies.

In Germany, accessibility has been mandatory for public entities for years (EU Web Accessibility Directive), and starting June 28, 2025, the Accessibility Enhancement Act (BFSG) will also apply to certain private providers when they offer covered products or services to consumers, including digital services such as online stores/e-commerce, online banking, or certain ticketing and booking services. Exceptions apply to micro-enterprises providing services (fewer than 10 employees and a maximum of €2 million in revenue or total assets).

Public agencies must provide and keep up to date an accessibility statement for their websites and apps (including information on the current status of compliance and contact information for feedback). Companies subject to the BFSG are also required to provide information on the accessibility of their services (often implemented in practice as an accessibility statement) so that consumers can understand how the requirements are being met.

Public entities (government agencies and many institutions with a public mandate) in particular must implement accessible websites because their digital offerings are subject to the relevant regulations (e.g., BGG/BITV at the federal level).  In addition, starting June 28, 2025, many private providers must make their websites and web apps accessible if they offer consumer services online that are subject to the BFSG (e.g., e-commerce and online store functions).

In the public sector, compliance is monitored by oversight agencies: at the federal level, for example, the BFIT-Bund, which independently reviews the accessibility of digital services provided by federal agencies; there are also corresponding agencies at the state level. For complaints and enforcement, there are enforcement and mediation bodies (ombudsman offices) that can receive reports and initiate proceedings. For the BFSG (private providers), oversight is organized as market surveillance; the states are establishing joint responsibilities and structures for this purpose.