European Accessibility Act 2025: What companies need to do now.

10/29/2024  •  by Marco Schär  •  3 min read time • 
Impression

The EU Accessibility Directive (European Accessibility Act) will come into force from mid‑2025 and applies to all companies offering services and products online. The new regulations aim to make digital content and e‑commerce platforms accessible to all users, regardless of physical or cognitive impairments.

What do the new directives mean?

The EU's new accessibility directives stipulate that all websites and digital content must be designed in such a way that they are easily accessible for users with disabilities. Companies that do not comply with the new directives risk heavy fines and legal consequences from mid-2025. It is therefore crucial for every company to take action now. The following guidelines must be observed:

  • Clear navigation and user guidance: Websites must be structured in such a way that users can easily find their way around and access all content, regardless of their technical equipment or abilities.
  • Accessible content: Text, images and videos must be designed to be accessible. This includes descriptive alt texts for images, subtitles for videos and clear, easy-to-understand language.
  • Compatibility with assistive technologies: Websites must be compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies so that people with visual or hearing impairments can consume the content.
  • Compliant programming: The code and programming of the website must comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which are the international standard for accessible web design.

Why are accessible websites generally good?

Regardless of legal requirements, it always makes sense to make a website accessible. An accessible website increases reach as it is accessible to all users and improves the user experience, leading to higher conversion rates and stronger customer loyalty. A user-friendly and accessible platform also signals that a company is attentive to the needs of all people, which strengthens its image and customer loyalty.

What do companies have to do to comply with the guidelines?

  1. Assessment and analysis: Check your current website for accessibility. Have an analysis carried out to identify weaknesses and understand where action is needed.
  2. Concept development and redesign: Develop a concept that is aligned with the new guidelines. This means revising existing content, making technical adjustments and optimizing user guidance.
  3. Testing and validation: Carry out extensive testing to ensure that your website is compatible with assistive technologies and meets all requirements. External testing with test users is a proven method to ensure that accessibility is actually guaranteed.
  4. Regular maintenance and updates: Accessibility is not a one-off project. Schedule regular checks and updates to ensure that your website always meets the latest standards.

Why minddraft is your ideal partner?

At minddraft, we attach great importance to accessible websites, regardless of guidelines and specifications. Our goal is to create the best possible user experience for every project - and that includes all users. We are convinced that an inclusive website not only improves access for people with disabilities, but also has the potential to appeal to a broader target group and increase the satisfaction of all users.

Our experience shows that companies that focus on accessibility benefit from greater customer loyalty and higher sales in the long term. That's why we integrate accessibility into all our projects from the outset to ensure that your website both meets current standards and fulfills future requirements.

Minddraft specializes in user experience and accessibility and helps companies to design websites that are not only compliant, but also user-friendly and sales-optimized. Why you should work with minddraft:

  • Experience and expertise: With years of experience in UX design and accessibility, we know the challenges and requirements inside out. Our team will work closely with you to ensure your website meets the new guidelines while improving the user experience.
  • Efficient implementation: Our tried-and-tested approach ensures that we deliver results quickly and in a targeted manner. From the initial analysis to the final test, we guide you through the entire process so that you are prepared in good time.
  • Customized solutions: At minddraft, we do not offer standard solutions. We analyze your specific requirements and develop a strategy that fits your company perfectly. In this way, we ensure that your website is not only accessible, but also promotes sales.
  • Long-term partnership: Accessibility is an ongoing process. We remain at your side as a partner after implementation to ensure that your website continues to meet all requirements and perform optimally in the future.

Conclusion: Act now and secure a competitive advantage

The new EU accessibility directives are an opportunity to modernize and optimize your website. Use this opportunity to increase your reach and boost your conversion rate. With minddraft, you have a reliable partner at your side who will guide you through this process and ensure that you meet all requirements.

Book a free initial assessment now and find out how we can make your website future-proof and sales-boosting. Together, we'll take your website to the next level!

Categories:Accessibility

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