What is Accessibility?
Web accessibility ensures that websites and digital products can be used by all people, including those with disabilities: visual impairments, hearing impairments, motor limitations, or cognitive impairments. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) define international standards with three conformance levels: A, AA, and AAA. Important aspects include: sufficient color contrasts, keyboard navigation, alt texts for images, captions for videos, clear heading structure, and ARIA labels for screen readers. In the EU, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) will make accessibility legally required for many digital products starting in 2025.
Key Points
- WCAG 2.1 AA is the common standard
- Contrast ratio at least 4.5:1 for text
- All functions operable by keyboard
- Alt texts for all informative images
- ARIA labels for interactive elements
- EAA makes accessibility mandatory from 2025
Practical Example
“After WCAG AA optimization, blind users can now fully use our shop with screen readers.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Accessibility
For many companies yes: the European Accessibility Act, implemented in Austria via the Barrierefreiheitsgesetz, has required large parts of the private sector (including e-commerce) to provide accessible digital offerings since June 2025. The practical benchmark is WCAG 2.1 AA.
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines define three conformance levels (A, AA, AAA). AA is the common legal and practical standard: sufficient color contrast, keyboard operability, alt texts, clear structure and screen reader compatibility.
Yes — many accessibility requirements (clean heading structure, alt texts, descriptive links, fast load times) are also ranking factors. Accessible websites are easier for Google to understand and reach more users.
Need professional help with Accessibility?
Our GoldenWing team offers strategic Web Design services for Austrian and international clients. From initial consulting to implementation — we deliver measurable results.