Why your media should become digitally accessible
The European Accessibility Act will come into force on June 28, 2025. It regulates the technical requirements for the digital accessibility of certain products and services for consumers, as well as accessibility information obligations.
However, even if your company does not fall under the new law, you should voluntarily make your products and services accessible. The 6 most important arguments for digital accessibility are:
- Clarity: Everyone benefits from digital accessibility, as code, content, and design are made more perceptible and understandable when they follow guidelines for accessible design. No one likes annoying pop-ups, disappearing elements, cumbersome skipping, etc.
- Demographics: Against the backdrop of demographic development and an aging consumer base, the accessibility of products and services can be a competitive advantage.
- Competitors: Companies that offer accessible products and services are well-prepared for the future: They reach a larger target audience and can compete directly with companies that fall under the BFSG.
- Future Laws: It’s possible that the scope of the BFSG will be expanded to include more products and services in the future.
- SEO: Search engines also value readability and clarity of information for users. Therefore, by implementing guidelines for accessible design (metadata, code, content, design), you also benefit your search engine optimization. Search engines reward digital accessibility, which in turn boosts your SEO.
- Living Inclusion: Inclusion as a societal value should be a matter of course. You take responsibility and show empathy. You help people with disabilities and demonstrate corporate responsibility in the best sense of CSR.
Why is digital accessibility relevant?
According to a EU study conducted by the European Council, 27% of the population over the age of 16 had some form of disability. According to estimates, that equals to 101 million people or one in four people adults in the EU.
Read the full study on their websites.
Additionally, there are people who are temporarily functionally limited, e.g., due to illness, injury, or short-term impairment. Moreover, our society is aging, so the need for accessibility will increase. Many people with disabilities rely on digital accessibility for their digital participation or participation in public life. Moreover, our world is becoming increasingly digital – inclusion must therefore also take place online.
Our Conclusion on Digital Accessibility
Benefits for your company include a wider reach, more customers, improved satisfaction, and a boost in employer branding as a welcome side effect.
Want to know more?
