When it comes to web accessibility, WCAG 2.1 is the international standard of reference. But what exactly are WCAG 2.1 and why are they so important for today's websites? The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are guidelines developed to ensure that online content is accessible to all, regardless of ability or disability.
WCAG 2.1 is based on four fundamental principles: perceivable, operable, understandable and robust. These principles concern the different aspects of a website — images, text, navigation, interactions — and set out testable criteria that reduce barriers for people with visual, hearing, motor or cognitive disabilities.
Why is it important to comply with these guidelines? Firstly, many national and European rules rely on them: in Europe, the European Accessibility Act is supported by the harmonised standard EN 301 549, which in turn refers to WCAG. But besides legal compliance, following WCAG 2.1 means significantly improving the user experience. A site that follows these guidelines is clearer, easier to navigate and accessible to a wider audience.
With Accessibi you can work on your site's accessibility with reference to WCAG 2.1/2.2 AA: our team analyses the agreed pages, using automated tools and manual checks, and, if requested, implements the necessary fixes. WCAG 2.1 should not be seen as an obstacle, but as an opportunity to make the web a better place for everyone.