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Nowadays, of course, every business has a website. But the topic of digital accessibility is (still) not a key focus for many. At the same time, its importance is steadily increasing.
Because an accessible website enables equal access to information and digital services for all people – regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments.
What does web accessibility actually mean?
An accessible website is designed and programmed in a way that allows as many people as possible to use it independently, without assistance. This includes, among others, people with:
- visual impairments or blindness
- hearing impairments or deafness
- motor impairments
- cognitive or neurological impairments
- age-related limitations
Users with temporary impairments (e.g. a broken arm, bright sunlight, a slow internet connection) also benefit from accessible web design.
The internationally recognized standards for this are the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
What does an accessible website look like?
Accessible websites are usually particularly clear, well structured, and user-friendly. Above all, an accessible website feels intuitive – meaning it is easier to use for everyone.
Typical characteristics include:
- Clear structure and logical layout (headings, paragraphs, lists)
- Good color contrast between text and background
- Readable font sizes and scalable text
- Full keyboard operability (without a mouse)
- Alternative text for images (for screen readers)
- Clear, simple language
- Clearly labeled forms and buttons
- Subtitles or transcripts for audio and video content
Who is required to have an accessible website?
With the Accessibility Strengthening Act (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz – BFSG), the obligation for digital accessibility in Germany will be significantly expanded from 2025 onwards. In many cases, accessibility will therefore be legally required.
It is mandatory in particular for:
-Public authorities and government bodies
- Municipalities, universities, and public institutions
- Companies that offer digital services to consumers
(e.g. online shops, booking platforms – with the exception of micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees and less than €2 million in annual turnover)
So can small businesses do without it?
In fact, accessibility is worthwhile for companies of any size.
Because accessible websites:
- improve usability for everyone
- strengthen trust, professionalism, and brand image
- have a positive impact on SEO
- are prepared for potential future legal requirements
They ensure digital inclusion, better usability, and legal security. They are not a special case for a few, but a quality feature of modern websites.
So if you take accessibility seriously, create a website that is usable for as many people as possible!
Checklist: Is your website accessible?
The following checklist can help you assess whether your website is accessible.
Of course, it does not replace a professional audit, but it provides a solid initial assessment.
1. Structure & Navigation
- Are headings logically and hierarchically structured (H1–H6)?
- Is there a clear, consistent navigation?
- Is all content accessible without a mouse (keyboard navigation)?
- Is the focus visible when navigating via keyboard?
2. Design & Readability
- Do texts have sufficient contrast with the background?
- Is the text easy to read and scalable (zoom up to 200% without issues)?
- Is information not conveyed by color alone?
- Are animations and effects subtle and switchable?
3. Content & Language
- Are texts clear and easy to understand?
- Are technical terms explained or avoided?
- Are link texts descriptive (not just “click here”)?
- Do all relevant images have alternative text?
4. Forms & Interactions
- Are all form fields clearly labeled?
- Are there understandable error messages and help texts?
- Can forms be completed entirely via keyboard?
- Is sufficient time allowed for input?
5. Media (Images, Video, Audio)
- Do videos have subtitles?
- Are transcripts available for audio content?
- Is important information not conveyed only visually or audibly?
And for more advanced programming knowledge:
6. Technology & Code
- Is the HTML code semantically correct?
- Is the correct heading structure used?
- Are buttons and interactive elements properly marked up?
- Are ARIA attributes used selectively and correctly?
7. Testing & Tools
- Has the site been checked with automated accessibility tools?
- Has the site been tested using keyboard navigation?
- Has a screen reader test been carried out?
- Has feedback been obtained from real users?
Tip
There are many free tools available to check your website for accessibility. For example, the W3C Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) provides a comprehensive list of tools.
Even if some results may appear quite “technical,” they always offer valuable insights into shortcomings and necessary improvements.
Last but not least: Accessibility on social media
Social media platforms are not automatically accessible either. While they do offer technical features such as alt text and subtitles, actual accessibility depends largely on how you create your content.
Typical barriers include images without alternative text, videos without (correct) subtitles, text embedded in images, poor color contrast, and very small fonts.
Therefore, here as well:
- Provide alt text for images
- Always add subtitles to videos
- Include important information in the text as well
- Use clear, simple language
- Place hashtags at the end of the post
- Ensure good contrast and readable fonts
Legally, companies are usually not directly required to ensure accessibility on social media. Nevertheless, accessible communication is increasingly expected. In addition, it improves reach, clarity, and brand image.
Conclusion
If you are just starting your business, you should take the opportunity to plan your online presence to be accessible from the very beginning.
Because accessibility should be considered from the start!
However, it can also often be improved on existing websites and other platforms without much effort.
Above all: creating accessibility is not a one-time project, but an ongoing process – especially when adding new content or relaunching a website.
