By:
Grace Williamson 
The digital space has opened up an extensive library containing information on everything. Finding what we need on the internet is a simple task. But what happens if your website cannot be accessed? Have you ever had this thought? To be very specific, if your website is inaccessible, most people who use smartphones, tablets, desktop computers or laptops will find it difficult or impossible to use.
It's important to prioritize following WCAG compliance requirements and implementing them effectively to reach a vast audience. This blog will cover the most recent developments and updates related to WCAG 2023.
In research, it has been found that 1 in 5 [1] people suffer from an impairment that creates the digital space and information in it difficult to access.
Many business owners believe that website compliance won't affect them. Still, if your website is not accessible, users with disabilities will have difficulty using and finding your products or services. If these people with impairments find it difficult to explore your web pages, they will go somewhere that sufficiently meets their needs. So the best suitable option for you is to make your website accessible, as it also offers you access to an additional 20% of the users.
To explain this simply, not having an accessible website is like a store only open on certain days. Since, it may be fine for some, it excludes those who need special accommodations or are only available on different days, thus limiting the potential customer base. It can also lead to lost opportunities as customers won't be able to find the store on their own and may turn to their competitors instead. Furthermore, an inaccessible website can lead to lawsuits, fines, and tarnished public image.
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), is a set of international standards representing how to make website content more accessible to people with disabilities. By making your website accessible, you can make sure that everyone who might visit it, including people with disabilities, enjoys using it and can easily access your content. By putting accessibility industry standards into practice, you furthermore enhance the site's usability for all visitors.
Building a website that is accessible is essential for a number of reasons:
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) grants that companies in the US make their websites user-friendly and accessible to those with disabilities. If the website is not accessible, the owner could be sued for violating the ADA.
The most recent version of WCAG will come out in 2023. It has additional requirements that can improve the website's accessibility for people with various disabilities.
Read Also: What is web accessibility & why is it important
The latest version, WCAG 2.2, thoroughly defines the guidelines suggested for web developers, content creators, website owners, policymakers, and other skilled professionals to follow while making web content accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.
While comparing both versions of WCAG, we found that the main difference lies in improved accessibility based on the same three conformance levels for three sets of users with disabilities. They are:
The increase in smartphone users was the core reason and the need for this update to carry a bold perspective toward web compliance. The update helps web owners, and developers create websites with optimal mobile device accessibility. While developing or updating the website content, complying with the latest WCAG 2.2 version is better than the previous WCAG 2.1 version.
WCAG version 2.2 is scheduled to publish in 2023 (July, August, September). These drafts are:
The main goal of "Candidate Recommendation" (CR) is to ensure the standard can be implemented. It is steady at this moment, but this might change depending on how it is implemented.
Web content accessibility standards are useful for all. The benefits of WCAG 2.2 extend beyond just those with the impairments; everyone benefits from the editor's current fraughtness. Each user has different requirements and needs while utilizing website content.
The new WCAG 2.2 success criteria include:
It is not the newest criterion, though it has recently been upgraded from AA to A in WCAG 2.2. The standard permits using either the default browser focus state or a custom focus rate.
As per the WCAG 2.2 guidelines, your design system focus states should display visible keyboard focus indicators by:
Following WCAG 2.2 guidelines, the website developers must offer alternatives to extracting actions in user interface components, except when necessary, such as when a user adjusts the price range filters. This improvement is crucial as it benefits everyone who needs to reorder items. Users may find it easier to drag and reorder apps on their home screen page in an organized manner if no other options are available.
Making your website accessible can be done in a variety of ways. Some common methods include:
Making your website accessible has numerous benefits. These benefits include:
Making your website accessible to a large number of users is not only the right thing to do for people with physical impairments but also for your business in many ways. If you are unsure where to begin, website accessibility services might help you.
The Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) provides useful information on WCAG guidelines and accessibility, while there are also multiple tools and services you can use to make your website more accessible.
To ensure your website is easily accessible, consider implementing these additional tips:
Following these tips can make your website more accessible to people with impairments. Accessibility Testing Services will benefit your organization in several ways.
Interesting Read: Tips For Comprehensive Web Accessibility Audit Service
The 2023 WCAG Compliance Requirements bring renewed focus to the importance of creating inclusive digital experiences for all users. Adhering to these guidelines ensures legal compliance and enhances user experience, expands reach, and strengthens brand reputation.
Designing accessible websites benefits individuals with disabilities, giving them equal opportunities to access information, engage with services, and participate fully in the digital world. For instance, websites designed with accessibility in mind can include features such as screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and descriptions of images for those with visual impairments.
Overall, accessible websites can make a huge difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities, breaking down barriers and allowing them to access the same content and services as everyone else. It can create a more inclusive and equitable digital world.
By taking benefits from our WCAG compliance solutions, organizations can positively impact society while reaping the rewards of an inclusive and accessible online presence. Let us strive to create a web where everyone can fully participate and thrive.
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