From June 2025, all companies in Germany will be legally required to make their digital products and services accessible. This requirement not only represents a legal obligation but also offers a unique opportunity to promote digital inclusivity and attract new customers. But what exactly does digital accessibility mean, why is it so important, what is the current legal situation, and most importantly: how can ITsquare help?

What is digital accessibility?

Digital accessibility refers to the design and development of websites, applications, and other digital products that are accessible to all users, including people with disabilities. Here are some key components:

• Perceivable: Content must be presented in a way that all users can perceive.
• Operable: Users must be able to operate the user interface.
• Understandable: Information and the operation of the user interface must be understandable.
• Robust: Content must be robust enough to be reliably interpreted by various assistive technologies.

Why is digital accessibility so important?

1. Inclusivity: Accessibility promotes the participation of all people in digital life, including over a billion people worldwide who live with some form of disability. This includes visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments.
2. Legal Requirements: Many countries have legal requirements for accessibility. Websites and digital products must comply with these regulations to avoid legal consequences.
3. Economic Benefits: An accessible website can reach more customers, thus expanding the potential customer base. Additionally, an accessible website often improves overall usability, leading to higher satisfaction and user retention.
4. Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Accessible websites tend to rank better in search engines. Accessibility practices like using alt text for images and clear content structuring also benefit SEO efforts.

Legal situation regarding digital accessibility

Legislation on digital accessibility varies by country, but its relevance is increasing worldwide. Here are some important legal provisions:

• EU Web Accessibility Directive: This directive requires public sector bodies in the EU to make their websites and mobile applications accessible. It aims to improve access to digital information and services.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): In the US, the ADA requires businesses and organizations to make their digital offerings accessible to avoid discrimination.
• Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV): In Germany, the BITV regulates the requirements for the accessibility of websites and mobile applications of public bodies.
• Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG): This law, passed on June 28, 2021, requires companies in Germany to make their products and services accessible by June 2025. This particularly affects digital products such as websites, software, and mobile applications. The aim of the BFSG is to ensure equal participation of all people in digital life and to strengthen the economic participation of people with disabilities.

Who is affected from June 2025

From June 2025, not only public bodies but also private companies must ensure that their digital products and services are accessible. The Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) covers a wide range of sectors and industries. Here are some of the affected areas:

1. E-Commerce: Online shops must ensure that their websites and mobile applications are accessible to people with disabilities. This includes everything from navigation to payment.
2. Financial Services: Banks, insurance companies, and other financial service providers must make their digital offerings accessible. This affects online banking, insurance portals, and financial apps.
3. Transportation: Airlines, rail companies, and other transportation companies must ensure that their booking platforms and information services are accessible.
4. Communication Services: Providers of telecommunication services must make their websites, mobile applications, and customer service offerings accessible.
5. Health Services: Hospitals, doctor’s offices, and other health service providers must ensure that their digital information and services are accessible to all patients.
6. Public Bodies and Institutions: Although these are already required to comply with the EU Web Accessibility Directive and the BITV, compliance with accessibility will continue to play an important role.
7. Entertainment Industry: Streaming services, online media, and other entertainment platforms must make their content and services accessible.

The comprehensive requirements of the BFSG aim to ensure equal participation of all people in digital life and to strengthen the economic participation of people with disabilities. Companies that do not meet these requirements risk not only legal consequences but also the loss of a significant customer base.

How ITsquare can help you

At ITsquare, we specialize in developing accessible digital solutions that meet the highest standards. Our process includes:

1. Consulting and Analysis: We start with a thorough analysis of your existing digital products and provide comprehensive advice on the necessary measures to achieve accessibility.
2. Design and Development: Our team of experienced developers and designers creates user-friendly, accessible solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
3. Testing and Implementation: We rigorously test your digital products to ensure they comply with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). We work closely with you to ensure seamless implementation.
4. Training and Support: ITsquare offers training for your team to help them understand and apply the principles of accessibility. We also provide ongoing support.

Conclusion

Digital accessibility is not only a legal obligation but also an ethical imperative and an economic opportunity. By ensuring that your digital offerings are accessible to everyone, you contribute to inclusivity while creating added value for your company. Trust ITsquare to bring your projects on the path to accessibility and create a better digital world for all.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you in developing accessible digital solutions.