What is a functional impairment?
A functional impairment refers to conditions such as blindness, low vision, deafness, hearing impairment, motor disabilities, as well as conditions like low literacy, illiteracy, mild intellectual disabilities, dyslexia, and color blindness. Additionally, temporary limitations due to accidents, surgeries, or illnesses also fall under this category.
These impairments can make it difficult for individuals to use websites and applications. Some people may require specific tools or assistive technologies to access digital content.
Accessibility is more than addressing disabilities
Approximately 18% of the population is aged 65 or older. This demographic is growing in an aging society, with a notable increase in those over 80 years old in recent years.
While not all of these individuals have impairments, they benefit from websites that are easy to understand and reliable. The same goes for children, who are increasingly using the internet, for instance, for schoolwork.
Considerations for search engines
Search engines play a crucial role as well. Information that isn’t visible on a website is typically not indexed and thus not found. Additionally, websites that only partially function or work within specific browsers or devices are less likely to be well-indexed. These aspects are also critical to accessibility. A truly accessible website extends its reach beyond its primary domain.
By making a website accessible, you prioritize the visitor experience, ensuring it caters to all users, regardless of disabilities. This approach necessitates making thoughtful choices and considering content carefully, ultimately enhancing the website or application.
Feasibility and measurability: WCAG 2.1
Accessibility standards are outlined in guidelines such as WCAG 2.1, which include three levels: A, AA, and the highest, AAA. Websites of (semi-)governmental organizations must undergo regular testing at levels A and AA, as mandated since 2018 under the Digital Accessibility Act. These sites are also required to publish an accessibility statement. The clear measurability and testability of these guidelines facilitate implementation across all involved parties.
This applies not only to government sites but also to other organizations. The guidelines can be used to align goals with designers and developers, and to justify actions both internally and externally. Certifying a website's accessibility is also an option.
Is an accessible site feasible for my organization?
In practice, achieving the first two levels of WCAG 2.1 is feasible for most organizations. Many guidelines represent best practices for the web, beginning with design and coding that functions across all browsers and devices.
Moreover, specific attention to aspects such as color usage, interaction, navigation, and effective content presentation can be entrusted to website designers and developers who possess specialized knowledge. However, ensuring the ongoing accessibility of website content typically falls under the purview of communication departments or web editors. Their role in implementing and maintaining these guidelines is crucial over the long term.
Towards an inclusive society
There is a growing movement towards creating an inclusive society, supported by government legislation at the European and national levels, including the UN Convention, which the Netherlands endorses. Examples can be seen in initiatives like sign language interpreters at government press conferences.
Websites and, starting next year, apps funded with public money must comply with accessibility guidelines. It's likely that more organizations will soon be required to adhere to these standards, ultimately making them the norm across all sectors.
Want to learn more about digital accessibility?
Fill out the form below. We will get back to you as soon as possible.
