Whether you’re designing a website, writing a blog, or scheduling a social post, adding thoughtful, descriptive alt text makes a real difference to people who rely on screen readers or other assistive tech. 

But writing effective alt text isn’t always straightforward. What do you say about a chart? Do product images need detail? When is it better to leave alt text blank?

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about alt text best practices – with real alt text examples. In just a few moments, you’ll be better placed to write image descriptions that improve accessibility, boost SEO, and meet key compliance standards.

What is alt text, and why is it important?

Alt text, short for “alternative text”,  is a written description of an image. It usually appears in the HTML code as a visible line of text next to the image, or as a longer description on a separate page accessed through a link. 

Alt text is incredibly important for people who live with visual impairment – it provides essential context that would otherwise be lost to them. It turns visuals into words, making content more inclusive and easier to navigate.

How alt text improves accessibility and SEO

Alt text was originally created to improve digital accessibility, and that remains its most important role today. For blind and low-vision users, screen readers use alt text to describe images aloud, helping them navigate and understand visual content.

But alt text doesn’t only serve assistive technology. When written well, it also contributes to better SEO.

That’s because search engines can’t “see” images. They depend on alt text, alongside file names, to interpret what an image shows. This means relevant alt text, which uses keywords naturally, can improve how your pages rank in image search results.

6 best practices for writing effective alt text

The best alt text is specific, concise, and relevant to the image’s purpose. Here are a few practical tips to guide your writing:

1. Keep it short, but meaningful – Aim for a maximum of one or two clear sentences. You don’t need to include every visual detail, just the elements that matter most.
2. Describe the image in context – Why is this image here? What information is it adding? Your alt text should reflect the role the image plays on the page.
3. Avoid phrases like “image of” or “picture of” – Screen readers already announce that it’s an image, so these intros only create clutter.
4. Use keywords naturally – Never stuff your alt text with keywords. If the image supports your SEO goals, include relevant terms.
5. Don’t add alt text to decorative images – If an image on your page is just there for decorative purposes, it should have a null alt attribute (alt=””), so that screen readers skip it altogether.
6. Add a full stop – Adding a full stop to the end of the alt text helps differentiate it from the rest of the page’s text. It also improves the reading experience for those using screen readers, adding a natural pause.  

By following these best practices, you’ll create alt text that is genuinely helpful for users. To see these principles in action, take a look at the alt text examples below. 

Alt text examples for different types of images

What might surprise you is that not all alt text should be written the same way.

Why? Because different types of images call for different approaches. 

But whether you’re working with graphs, social media content, or product photos, the goal is always the same: describe what matters, in a way that is connected to the context of the image and to support user experience.

Let’s examine how to approach alt copy for each type of image: 

Alt text for informative images

As the name suggests, informative images convey key information that isn’t written elsewhere on the page.

This description focuses on what’s visible and relevant to the context of the image, without overexplaining.

Alt text for decorative images

Decorative images don’t add meaningful content. They’re there purely for aesthetics and should be skipped by screen readers and other assistive technology. 

Use a null alt attribute, like in the example above, so assistive technology can ignore the image and move on.

Alt text for charts and graphs

Charts and graphs convey complex data, which can seem difficult to condense into alt text. 

The answer? Your alt text should simply summarize the key takeaway from the chart or graph.

If there’s more detail, you might want to consider providing a longer description in text nearby or linking to a text alternative.

Alt text for product images

Product images should be described with key visual details that help users understand what’s being sold.

This is especially important for e-commerce accessibility and usability.

Alt text for social media images

Social media is no exception when it comes to writing alt text. When sharing visual content on social channels, include concise but descriptive alt text that describes the image in a way that’s related to the post’s context. 

Most platforms, like X, LinkedIn, and Instagram, now support alt text, so there’s no excuse to skip it – ensuring everyone in the community can access your content. 

Common mistakes to avoid when writing alt text

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to get alt text wrong. Here are some of the most common pitfalls – and how to avoid them:

1. Writing overly vague descriptions

Alt text like “Image of a graph” or “Photo of a product” offers no useful context. Be specific. What does the graph show? What kind of product is it?

2. Making descriptions too long

Alt text isn’t the place for full-blown essays. Overly detailed descriptions can overwhelm screen reader users and can interrupt flow. Keep it short and sweet – just a few words will work, or two clear, focused sentences at most.

3. Stuffing in keywords

Alt text that’s crammed with keywords and has no real description doesn’t help users or search engines. Remember to focus on clarity first – when the alt text is genuinely useful, you can rest assured that the SEO benefits will follow soon enough. 

4. Repeating surrounding content

If the image caption or nearby text already says the same thing, there’s no need to repeat it in the alt text. Just focus on what the image itself adds.

5. Ignoring functional images

Buttons, icons, and links with images should have descriptive alt text that explains their function, such as “Submit form” or “Download PDF”,  not just “arrow” or “icon.”

6. Forgetting about mobile and social

If you’re managing content across different platforms, make sure the alt text works consistently across the board, including on mobiles and social posts. Accessibility shouldn’t stop at your website.

By avoiding these common mistakes and using the right tools, you’ll get closer to building a more accessible, user-friendly experience.

How to test and optimize alt text for accessibility

Once you’ve written alt text, how do you know it’s working? 

It’s important to test how well your alt text works in practice, both for screen readers and for overall user experience. 

Here’s how to test and improve your image descriptions:

1. Use a screen reader

Try navigating your site with a screen reader like NVDA (Windows) or VoiceOver (macOS). This gives you direct insight into how your alt text is read aloud and whether it makes sense in context.

2. Turn off images in your browser

Disabling images in your browser is a quick way to preview the alt text that appears in place of each visual. It can be a good way to discover descriptions that feel confusing or redundant and need editing.

3. Check for accessibility errors

Use automated tools to help uncover any errors that may affect screen readers, along with other accessibility issues.  

4. Ask real users for feedback

If you have access to testers who use assistive technology, their feedback is the best thing you can get. Ask whether your alt text feels helpful, concise, and consistent – and adjust based on their suggestions. 

5. Review your SEO performance

Once you’ve optimized your alt text, monitor image-related search traffic in Google Search Console. If your images start showing up in relevant results, you’ll know your descriptions are working for search engines too.

Optimizing alt text is an ongoing process, but following these steps will help you stay on track and build a more inclusive digital experience.

Alt text and WCAG compliance guidelines

If you’re aiming to meet accessibility standards, alt text isn’t optional. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) lay out clear expectations for how images should be handled to support users with visual impairments, including:

• All non-text content must have a text alternative – This is a Level A requirement under WCAG 2.1 (Success Criterion 1.1.1). If an image conveys information, it must include a meaningful text alternative.
• Decorative images should be ignored by assistive tech – If an image doesn’t convey content (such as borders, patterns, or visual embellishments), it should include an empty alt attribute: alt=”” so screen readers skip it entirely, reducing noise.

Meeting these standards helps you create a more inclusive site. And it also could help reduce legal risk, especially for organizations operating in areas where accessibility laws, like the European Accessibility Act, are enforced. 

Small details, big impact

Alt text might be a small detail – but it has a big impact.

It makes your content more inclusive. It helps you meet accessibility standards. It boosts SEO. 

But most importantly, it improves the experience for real people who rely on assistive technology every day. 

By following best practices and avoiding the common mistakes outlined above, you can start making accessibility a natural part of your content process.

The post Using these 6 alt text best practices helps support real accessibility appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

Readers with ADHD often face challenges when processing dense text, navigating cluttered layouts, or maintaining focus on long-form content. And while many accessibility conversations focus on visual or mobility impairments, cognitive accessibility is just as essential – and often overlooked.

ADHD-friendly fonts are designed (or selected) with these challenges in mind. They prioritize clarity, reduce visual noise, and help readers stay oriented on the page. The right font won’t “fix” ADHD, of course – but it can support attention, lower cognitive load, and make reading a more comfortable experience.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes a font ADHD-friendly, the key features to look for, and how to apply best practices in your digital content and designs. Whether you’re a UX designer, developer, educator, or content creator, you’ll learn how to make more inclusive choices that benefit everyone.

How typography affects people with ADHD

Typography plays a surprisingly powerful role in how we absorb and interact with information. For individuals with ADHD, certain typographic choices can either support focus and comprehension or make reading a frustrating experience.

Common reading challenges for people with ADHD

• Difficulty focusing for extended periods: Dense blocks of text, small fonts, or inconsistent layouts can increase mental fatigue.
• Visual crowding: Overly stylized or compact text can blur together and overwhelm the reader, especially in long paragraphs.
• Frequent distraction: If the text lacks clear visual structure, readers with ADHD may struggle to track their place or stay engaged.
• Slower processing: Certain typefaces require more effort to decode, which can increase cognitive load and reduce reading fluency.

Design impacts

• Poor font and layout choices may result in more time spent re-reading, losing a place, or abandoning the content entirely.
• Well-designed typography, on the other hand, can make content easier to scan, follow, and retain – benefiting all users.

Key features of fonts designed for ADHD

While no single font can solve the challenges of ADHD, certain typographic traits can significantly improve readability, reduce distraction, and support sustained attention. 

ADHD-friendly fonts typically share a few important features:

1. Simplicity

Clean, minimal letterforms are easier to process. Avoid overly decorative fonts, which can create unnecessary visual noise.

Helpful fonts: Helvetica, Arial, Calibri
Avoid: Script, cursive, novelty fonts (e.g., Comic Sans, Papyrus)

2. Consistent letter shapes

Fonts that clearly differentiate similar characters (like “I”, “l”, and “1” or “O” and “0”) reduce confusion and help with faster word recognition.

3. Even spacing

Generous letter, word, and line spacing improves clarity and reduces the chance of text appearing too crowded – something that can quickly overwhelm a reader with ADHD.

TIP: Aim for line spacing (leading) of 1.5 or greater for paragraphs of body text.

4. Medium weight

Fonts that are too thin or too heavy can strain the eyes. A medium-weight font – neither too light nor too bold – will offer the best readability.

5. Left-aligned layout

Justified text creates irregular spacing between words, making it harder for the eye to track lines. Left-aligned text maintains consistent spacing and a predictable rhythm.

6. Readable at various sizes

Fonts should be legible even at smaller sizes or when zoomed in – this is important for users who increase text size as a reading aid.

By keeping these features in mind, designers and content creators can begin to create a reading environment that feels calmer, more inviting, and far less cognitively demanding.

Best fonts for ADHD: Top recommendations

Preferences can vary from person to person, but some fonts consistently perform better for readers with ADHD thanks to their clarity, spacing, and simplicity. 

Let’s look at several tried-and-tested options that combine legibility with cognitive friendliness:

1. Verdana

• Designed for on-screen readability.
• Wide spacing and tall lowercase letters improve line tracking.
• Great for body copy and interfaces.

2. Arial

• A clean, sans-serif classic.
• Familiar to most users, with a neutral design.
• Consistent stroke widths reduce visual distraction.

3. Calibri

• The default font used in many digital workspaces.
• Rounded corners and soft curves make it easy on the eyes.
• A good choice for emails, documents, and online reading.

4. Helvetica

• Highly legible, even at smaller sizes.
• Used widely in interface and digital product design.
• Offers clarity without being overly stark.

5. Open Dyslexic

• Designed specifically for people with dyslexia, but helpful for some with ADHD.
• Heavier bottoms on letters reduce flipping and skipping.
• Opinions are mixed, so user testing is important.

6. Lexend

• Scientifically developed to reduce visual stress and improve reading performance.
• Custom spacing and wider letterforms benefit people with ADHD and dyslexia.
• Free to use and available via Google Fonts.

Bonus tip: Use Google Fonts or System Fonts

Stick with web-friendly fonts or those available via Google Fonts. These will ensure consistent rendering across devices and browsers.

Sans-Serif vs. Serif Fonts: Which is better for ADHD?

One of the most common typography questions when designing for cognitive accessibility is whether to use serif or sans-serif fonts. 

While both have their uses, there’s a clear frontrunner when it comes to ADHD-friendly design.

Sans-Serif fonts: the ADHD-Friendly Favorite

Sans-serif fonts – like Arial, Calibri, and Helvetica – tend to be more suitable for people with ADHD. 

Here’s why:

• Cleaner, simpler shapes: Sans-serif fonts lack decorative strokes at the ends of letters, making them less visually complex and easier to process quickly.
• Less visual clutter: The minimalist letterforms reduce distractions on the page.
• Better on screens: Sans-serif fonts typically render more clearly on digital displays, especially at smaller sizes.
• Improved letter recognition: Their straightforward design helps prevent letters from blending together.

Serif Fonts: best used sparingly

Serif fonts – such as Times New Roman or Georgia – include small embellishments or “tails” on the ends of strokes. While they can be elegant and readable in print, they present a few challenges for ADHD readers:

• Increased visual noise: Serifs can add unnecessary complexity, especially in dense paragraphs.
• More difficult tracking: The additional ornamentation can make it harder to follow lines or distinguish similar characters.
• Screen readability issues: On low-resolution screens, serifs can appear blurry or pixelated.

How font size, spacing, and line height impact readability for ADHD

Even the most ADHD-friendly font can fall short if the text layout isn’t thoughtfully designed. Typography isn’t just about which font you choose; it’s also about how you present it. 

For readers with ADHD, spacing and sizing choices can dramatically affect focus, comprehension, and comfort.

Font size: bigger is often better

Small fonts require more concentration and visual effort. For readers with ADHD, this added strain can lead to faster fatigue and frustration.

• Aim for a minimum of 16px for body text on web content.
• Larger fonts (18–20px) are often more readable and reduce cognitive load.
• For headings, use consistent scaling to create clear content hierarchy.

Line height: give the eyes room to breathe

Also known as “leading,” line height determines the vertical space between lines of text. Tight line spacing can make reading feel claustrophobic, while overly wide spacing breaks visual flow.

• Use 1.4 to 1.6x the font size for optimal readability.
• Avoid cramming too many lines into small content areas.

Letter spacing: the unsung hero

Adjusting the space between characters can help with letter recognition and reduce the chance of letters visually merging – especially in readers who are easily distracted or prone to skipping.

• A slight increase in letter spacing (e.g., 0.5px) can improve clarity.
• Avoid fonts with extremely tight or inconsistent kerning.

Paragraph spacing and chunking

Dense blocks of text are overwhelming for many readers, but especially for those with ADHD. Breaking content into smaller, scannable units helps maintain engagement.

• Use clear paragraph breaks to segment information.
• Incorporate bulleted lists, subheadings, and whitespace to support scanning.

TL;DR?

Make it large. Make it spacious. Make it easy to scan. The more mental breathing room your text provides, the easier it will be for ADHD readers to stay focused and absorb your content.

Custom ADHD Fonts: do they really help?

In recent years, several typefaces have been designed specifically to support readers with dyslexia and ADHD. These fonts often feature unique shapes, spacing, and weights meant to improve readability and focus. But do they actually make a difference?

What are ADHD fonts?

ADHD-specific or ADHD-friendly fonts are designed with neurodivergent readers in mind. While there’s more research supporting fonts for dyslexia, many of the same principles (like generous spacing and simplified letterforms) can benefit people with ADHD as well.

Popular examples include:

• OpenDyslexic: Features heavy-weighted bottoms to help prevent letter flipping or confusion.
• Lexend: A font family scientifically designed to reduce visual stress and improve reading performance.
• Read Regular: Designed to improve readability for those with reading challenges, including ADHD.

Do they actually work?

The evidence is mixed. Some studies and user reports suggest that these fonts may reduce reading errors or increase comfort for neurodivergent readers – but others show little measurable impact compared to standard readable fonts like Arial or Verdana.

However, user preference matters. If someone finds a custom ADHD font easier to read, that’s a valid and valuable reason to use it.

Things to consider

• Custom fonts may not always be supported across all devices or browsers.
• Excessive stylization can sometimes create more distractions, not fewer.
• Test custom fonts in real-world settings before committing to them across the site.

Bottom line

Custom ADHD fonts can be helpful, especially when paired with thoughtful formatting and clean design. But they’re not a magic bullet – the key is offering flexibility and using them as part of a broader accessibility strategy.

Best practices for designing ADHD-friendly text

Typography is about the overall reading experience (not just fonts). For people with ADHD, small design decisions can make a big difference in how easily they process and engage with content.

Here are some practical tips to improve readability and reduce cognitive overload:

1. Choose simple, clean fonts

• Use readable sans-serif fonts like Arial, Verdana, or Lexend.
• Avoid ornate or decorative typefaces – they can be distracting and hard to scan.
• Stick to one or two font families throughout your site or document.

2. Use adequate font size

• Aim for a minimum of 16px body text.
• Increase font size for headings and calls to action to create clear visual hierarchy.

3. Adjust line height and spacing

• Set line height (line spacing) to around 1.5x the font size.
• Use generous paragraph spacing to avoid visual clutter.
• Ensure adequate letter and word spacing (tracking) to aid focus.

4. Break Up Text

• Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings.
• Incorporate white space to give the eyes room to rest.
• Include visual cues (icons, highlights) to guide readers through content.

5. Minimize distractions

• Avoid flashing content, auto-play videos, or fast-moving carousels.
• Use consistent layouts and navigation patterns.
• Reduce clutter and remove non-essential elements from the page.

6. Give users control

• Allow users to adjust font size, contrast, or line spacing if possible.
• Consider offering a “reading mode” or simplified content view.

7. Test with real users

• Whenever possible, test your designs with neurodivergent individuals.
• Collect feedback to refine your content and improve usability.

Conclusion: Designing with ADHD in mind benefits everyone

Typography can be a powerful ally in making content more accessible for people with ADHD. When you prioritize clarity, simplicity, and flexibility, you reduce barriers, not just for neurodivergent users, but for all your readers. 

From font choice and spacing to layout and readability, every design decision can support better focus and comprehension.

By following the guidance in this article, you’ll be one step closer to creating more inclusive, user-friendly digital experiences.

The post Best fonts and text layouts for ADHD appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

But for people with dyslexia, it can feel like navigating a maze. The letters and words are difficult to decipher, and memory, coordination, and organization are affected, too.

Dyslexia affects up to 10% of the population and often makes reading slow, exhausting, and frustrating. Yet one of the simplest ways to support dyslexic readers is often overlooked: 

Font choice.

Typography affects how easily text can be decoded and understood. By choosing dyslexia-friendly fonts and applying thoughtful design practices, you can significantly improve reading experiences for people with dyslexia. 

In a moment, you’ll know why font selection matters, what formatting choices are easier to read, and what the best font for dyslexia is – so your digital content is more accessible. 

What is dyslexia, and how does it affect reading?

Dyslexia is a common neurological difference that affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. It makes it difficult to recognize, decode, and accurately process words. This means reading, writing, and sometimes speaking can be a struggle.

Dyslexia appears differently in different people. For some, letters and words can appear jumbled, distorted, or upside down. But in general, dyslexics find it difficult to track lines of text and distinguish between similar-looking letters (like b/d or p/q). These obstacles not only reduce comprehension but also make reading mentally draining and frustrating.

Why font choice matters for people with dyslexia

Font choice can be a game-changer for dyslexic readers – making a massive difference to their reading experience. Fonts and typography with certain characteristics can reduce cognitive load, improve readability, and make it easier to distinguish between letters.

By using more accessible fonts, designers, educators, and content creators can remove unnecessary barriers and make their content more accessible.

Key features of dyslexia-friendly fonts

Not all fonts are created equal – especially when it comes to supporting dyslexic readers. Dyslexia-friendly fonts share several key features that minimize confusion and improve readability:

• More spacing – Characters like b/d, p/q, and i/l are easily confused in many fonts. Consistent, even, generous spacing in between letters reduces visual crowding and can help make it easier for dyslexic readers to tell them apart.
• Unique sticks and tails – Because some letters are difficult for dyslexic readers to tell apart, ensuring letters have unique sticks and tails that vary in length helps with recognition.
• Larger size – A larger font size makes letters and words clearer, aiding comprehension.
• Simple, open shapes – Avoiding ornate strokes and unnecessary embellishments prevents letters from blending together or becoming visually overwhelming.
• Weighted bottoms – Adding heavier bottoms to letters helps anchor them on the line.
• Asymmetry – Fonts with asymmetrical letters make it easier to distinguish between commonly confused characters.
• Longer extenders – Extenders are the parts of a letter that extend above or below the line that letters sit on (e.g., p or b). Lengthening them makes each letter more distinct for easier recognition. 

Sans-serif vs. serif fonts: which is better for dyslexia?

When it comes to dyslexia-friendly typography, sans-serif fonts are generally the better choice. Sans-serif fonts –  like Arial, Verdana, and Open Sans – have clean, straightforward lines without the small decorative strokes (serifs) found in serif fonts. This minimalist design helps letters stand out more clearly from one another.

Serif fonts, on the other hand, can make reading harder for dyslexic individuals. The extra details in serifs often cause letters to blur together, increasing the likelihood of confusion and fatigue. 

How font size, spacing, and line height impact readability

Beyond font choice, how you format your text can make a big difference for dyslexic readers. Proper font size, spacing, and line height all help reduce visual stress,  making text easier to process:

• Font size – Larger text, typically 12 to 14 point,  improves readability by making letters more distinguishable.
• Letter spacing (tracking). Increasing the space between letters helps dyslexic readers avoid the crowding effect, where letters seem to run together. Aim for 35% of the average letter width, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can make text less easy to read.
• Word spacing. Slightly increasing the distance between words helps separate them visually, improving comprehension.
• Line height (leading). Increasing line spacing helps readers keep track more easily.
• Paragraph spacing. Adding space between paragraphs breaks text into manageable sections, improving comprehension and navigation through longer content.

Thoughtful adjustments to size and spacing don’t just benefit dyslexic readers; they improve readability and accessibility for everyone, creating a more inclusive and user-friendly experience.

Best fonts for dyslexia: top recommendations

So, what are the best fonts for dyslexia? Dyslexia manifests differently depending on the person, which means no one font will be perfect for everyone. 

That being said, some fonts are more likely to make the reading experience just that little bit easier for them. 

 Below you’ll find a list of recommended options:

• Arial – A clean, widely available sans-serif font with simple letterforms and generous spacing, making it easier to read than many serif fonts.
• Helvetica – A classic sans-serif font with clean, uniform strokes and minimal ornamentation, which can improve legibility for dyslexic readers. However, some find its tight spacing less ideal for longer pieces of text.
• Open Sans – Designed to be legible across different screen resolutions and sizes, Open Sans features clear letterforms and balanced spacing, making it easier for dyslexic readers to distinguish similar characters.
• Verdana – Like Open Sans, Verdana was designed for screen readability, especially for smaller screen resolutions and sizes. Its distinct letters and loose spacing are well-suited to dyslexic readers.
• Tahoma – Similar to Verdana but slightly narrower, Tahoma offers distinct letter shapes that improve character recognition, and is especially suited to formats where a lot of words need to fit into a smaller space.
• Calibri – With rounded, clear letters and generous spacing that can aid legibility, Calibri was designed to make longer pieces of text more readable.
• Century Gothic – A rounded sans-serif font with slightly larger aspects of lettering, it reduces the chances of letter confusion.
• Comic Sans – While often criticized for its informal appearance, Comic Sans’ irregular, clear letter shapes can actually benefit some dyslexic readers.
• Trebuchet – Also designed for easy screen readability, Trebuchet has strong, wide, distinct letterforms and clean lines for greater clarity. 

Custom dyslexia fonts: Do they really help?

Custom fonts designed specifically for dyslexia,  like OpenDyslexic and Dyslexie, aim to make the reading experience easier for those with the condition. 

These fonts use weighted bottoms to stabilize letters, exaggerated character shapes to enhance differentiation, and wider spacing to reduce visual crowding. 

But research on custom dyslexia fonts suggests they might not be effective, with some studies concluding that they offer no significant advantage over well-chosen, standard sans-serif fonts like Arial or Verdana. 

However, because of the highly subjective nature of dyslexia, individual preferences do seem to play a key role: what works well for one dyslexic reader might not help another.

Best practices for designing dyslexia-friendly text

As well as picking a legible font, there are some best practices to keep in mind which can help make text more dyslexia-friendly:

• Avoid all caps – Blocks of uppercase letters are harder to read and can slow comprehension for dyslexic readers.
• Limit italics and underlining – These styles distort letter shapes and can blur words, making them harder to decode.
• Choose high-contrast color schemes – Avoid low-contrast color combinations or busy backgrounds.
• Use left-aligned text – Avoid justified text, which creates uneven spacing that can disrupt reading flow.
• Keep structure clean and clear – Make sure your layouts are clean and uncluttered, avoiding columns, using consistent headings, adding plenty of white space, and including a table of contents for clear navigation.
• Use bullet points and short paragraphs – Breaking information into small, digestible chunks helps readers process and retain content.
• Write for clarity – Use simple language with shorter sentences in the active voice, and avoid double negatives. 
• Provide adjustable text – Where possible, allow users to customize font size, spacing, and color schemes to suit their individual needs. You can do this with our Accessibility Widget.

How to test and optimize fonts for dyslexic readers

When it comes to dyslexia, typography isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best approach is to test different fonts to ensure your design supports the needs of dyslexic users. 

Here’s how to approach testing:

• Gather feedback from dyslexic users – The most valuable insights come directly from people with dyslexia. Share prototypes or sample pages and ask about their reading comfort, speed, and comprehension.
• Run readability tests – Readability testing tools can help you assess overall text complexity, but remember that these don’t evaluate font choice. Pair them with user testing for a complete picture.
• Use screen readers and assistive technology – Test your design with popular assistive tools to ensure compatibility and a smooth experience for all users.
• Continuously improve – Apply feedback and test results to refine your typography and layouts, balancing accessibility with your brand’s style.

By actively testing and optimizing your content, you demonstrate a genuine commitment to accessibility, giving dyslexic readers the support they need to engage confidently with your content.

From frustration to comfort

The right typography can make the difference between a frustrating reading experience and a comfortable one. By understanding how dyslexia affects reading, choosing supportive fonts, and applying best practices when setting out your content, you can create an experience that’s inclusive, accessible, and more enjoyable for your audience.

Designing with dyslexic users in mind is a commitment to cognitive accessibility, benefiting millions of people worldwide. And, given that it will widen your audience reach,  it’ll benefit your business too. 

The post Best font for dyslexia: How to choose fonts that empower every reader appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

But millions of people still face barriers when interacting with digital tools due to physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments. This is where assistive technology comes in – a powerful category of tools and devices designed to bridge the gap and empower users of all abilities to engage with content, communicate, and participate fully in digital spaces.

From screen readers and braille displays to speech recognition software and ergonomic keyboards, assistive technologies come in many forms. Some support users with permanent disabilities, while others assist people with temporary or situational limitations, like recovering from surgery or navigating a noisy environment.

As global awareness of digital inclusion grows, so does the importance of understanding how assistive technology works and how it can be integrated into websites, classrooms, workplaces (and beyond). 

In this article, we’ll break down:

• What assistive technology is and how it benefits users
• Real-world examples across a range of disabilities
• Use cases in education and employment
• Emerging trends to watch
• How to choose the right tools for your audience or organization

Let’s dive in – and explore how technology can be a force for inclusion.

How assistive technology helps people with disabilities

Assistive technology (AT) is about independence, dignity, and equal opportunity. These tools enable people with disabilities to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible, improving quality of life and opening access to education, employment, and online services.

Empowering independence

Whether it’s a blind person using a screen reader to shop online, or someone with mobility limitations navigating a website via voice control, assistive technology enables users to complete tasks on their own – often without needing additional help.

Enhancing communication

Tools like speech-generating devices (SGDs), real-time captioning, and hearing aids allow people with communication barriers to engage in conversations, both in person and online. This is crucial in educational and workplace settings where clear communication is make or break.

Leveling the playing field

In both education and employment, AT helps make sure that people with disabilities can compete and collaborate on equal footing. For example, students with dyslexia may benefit from text-to-speech software, while an employee with limited dexterity may rely on adaptive keyboards or eye-tracking technology.

Supporting digital access

As more services move online, it’s vital that digital environments accommodate assistive tech – from compatibility with screen readers to customizable text sizes and keyboard-friendly navigation. AT can only be effective if web content and digital tools are designed with inclusion in mind.

Adapting to changing needs

Assistive technology can also support people with temporary injuries, age-related impairments, or situational challenges – such as using captions in a noisy space. In this way, AT benefits a much broader population than many realize.

Examples of assistive technology for visual impairments

People with visual impairments – from low vision to complete blindness – rely on a wide range of tools to interact with digital content. These technologies translate visual information into formats that can be heard, touched, or enlarged.

Screen readers

Screen readers convert on-screen text into synthetic speech or braille output. Popular options include:

• JAWS (Job Access With Speech) – widely used in professional environments.
• NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) – a free, open-source alternative.
• VoiceOver – built into macOS and iOS.
• TalkBack – available on Android devices.

Braille displays

These devices render text as tactile braille characters. Dynamic refreshable displays allow users to “read” digital content line by line, often working alongside screen readers.

Magnification software

For users with low vision, screen magnifiers (like ZoomText or native tools like Windows Magnifier) enlarge parts of the screen. 

Features often include:

• Adjustable zoom levels
• Enhanced contrast settings
• Cursor enhancements

Text-to-speech tools

While often grouped with screen readers, standalone TTS tools like NaturalReader or Read Aloud browser extensions help users with partial vision or fatigue listen to content at their own pace.

High-contrast and inversion modes

Operating systems and browsers frequently offer display enhancements, such as dark mode or high-contrast color schemes, making text easier to read for users with light sensitivity or reduced contrast perception.

For your digital content to be truly accessible, it must be compatible with these technologies – from ensuring correct label markup to avoiding text baked into images.

Examples of assistive technology for hearing impairments

For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, assistive technology means better access to auditory content – from conversations to multimedia – through visual and tactile alternatives.

Real-time captioning tools

Live captioning converts speech to text on the fly. It’s especially valuable for:

• Video conferencing (e.g., Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams all offer built-in captions)
• Live events (via CART services: Communication Access Real-Time Translation)
• Streaming platforms (like YouTube’s auto-captions or third-party services)

Subtitling and transcription software

Transcripts and subtitles make audio and video content accessible. Tools like Otter.ai, Rev, and Descript help create readable versions of spoken content, useful in both educational and professional settings.

Visual alert systems

Devices like flashing doorbells, visual fire alarms, and vibrating pagers offer non-auditory notifications. On websites, visual cues for sounds (like “ding” when a message is sent) improve the user experience for everyone.

Sign language interpretation technology

Video relay services (VRS) and interpretation apps like InterpreterNow and SignLive connect users with interpreters via video, helping bridge communication gaps in real-time settings.

Hearing aid-compatible technology

Modern hearing aids now integrate with:

• Bluetooth for direct audio streaming
• Telecoils for improved sound in public venues
• Smartphone apps for sound filtering and environmental control

TIP: Audio content on websites should always be accompanied by transcripts or alternative formats. Not all users benefit from amplification – many need a visual version.

Examples of assistive technology for mobility challenges

People with mobility impairments may experience difficulty using standard input devices like keyboards, mice, or touchscreens. Assistive technology helps them interact with digital content in ways that suit their physical abilities.

Alternative input devices

These tools replace or supplement traditional hardware:

• Mouth sticks and head wands allow users to press keys or touchscreen elements with head or mouth movements.
• Foot switches and sip-and-puff systems enable interaction using air pressure or foot motion.
• Joystick mice offer greater control for users with limited dexterity.

These tools are often customized to individual needs, improving both autonomy and speed.

Voice control and speech recognition

Software like Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Apple Voice Control, and Google Assistant lets users navigate, dictate, and interact with devices entirely hands-free. This technology is especially helpful for users with limited or no use of their arms and hands.

TIP: Make sure your website or app is compatible with voice commands and doesn’t require complex gestures to operate.

On-screen keyboards

These allow typing using:

• A mouse
• Eye tracking
• Switch controls

Available on most operating systems, on-screen keyboards are especially useful when paired with pointer tools or gaze tracking.

Switch-access systems

Switches offer simplified interaction by mapping multiple commands to a single button or sequence. 

They can be activated with:

• Head movements
• Shoulder taps
• Blinking (via sensors)

These systems are often used alongside screen readers or scanning software that cycles through options.

Ergonomic and adaptive hardware

Custom setups include:

• Split keyboards, trackballs, and vertical mice
• Adjustable desks and mounts for optimal device positioning
• Touch-free access options using eye gaze technology (like Tobii Dynavox)

Developer tip: Make sure all interactive components (e.g., form fields, buttons) are keyboard-accessible and support focus indicators.

Examples of Text-to-Speech (TTS) tools

Tools like NaturalReader, Kurzweil 3000, and Read&Write by Texthelp convert written content into audio, helping users with dyslexia or reading difficulties absorb information more easily. These tools often include synchronized highlighting, improving word recognition, and focus.

Screen masking and focus tools

These help reduce on-screen distractions by dimming irrelevant areas or guiding the eye line. 

Examples include:

• Visor (browser extension)
• BeeLine Reader (uses color gradients to help tracking)
• Focus@Will (supports attention through soundscapes)

Useful for: users with ADHD, visual processing disorders, and executive function challenges.

Mind mapping and visual organizers

For users who struggle with linear note-taking or abstract planning, visual mapping tools can help structure information:

• MindMeister
• Inspiration Maps
• Coggle

These tools are great at offering support for joining the dots for complex auditory information

Assistive technology in education

Inclusive education means empowering every student, regardless of ability, to participate fully in the learning process. Assistive technology is a critical enabler, especially for students with disabilities. When integrated thoughtfully, it enhances learning outcomes, independence, and engagement.

Key use cases across disability types

For students with visual impairments:

• Screen readers (JAWS, NVDA) provide spoken descriptions of digital content.
• Braille displays allow reading and writing through tactile input.
• Accessible e-textbooks offer reflowable, alt-text-equipped formats.

For students with hearing impairments:

• Captioning services (e.g., Otter.ai, Google Meet captions) ensure access to spoken content.
• Visual learning tools support comprehension through imagery and text-based resources.

For students with motor disabilities:

• Alternative input devices like adaptive keyboards or switch controls support writing and navigation.
• Voice dictation tools (Dragon Naturally Speaking and Google Voice Typing) enable speech-based interaction.

For students with cognitive disabilities:

• Text simplification tools (Rewordify, SMMRY) and TTS tools support literacy and comprehension.
• Scheduling apps and visual organizers help with time management and executive function.

Accessibility features in learning platforms

Most major learning management systems (LMS) like Moodle, Blackboard, and Canvas now include built-in accessibility tools such as:

• Adjustable font sizes and contrast
• Keyboard navigation support
• Captioning and transcript tools

Educators can enhance accessibility by providing:

• Multiple content formats (e.g., video + transcript)
• Structured documents with headings
• Alt text for all visual materials

TIP: When designing digital learning materials, apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles – offering multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression.

Assistive technology in the workplace

Workplaces that embrace assistive technology not only support employees with disabilities – they also unlock productivity, inclusivity and innovation. With the right tools and culture, everyone can contribute meaningfully.

Key use cases by disability type

Visual impairments:

• Screen readers (JAWS, VoiceOver, NVDA) allow employees to interact with software, emails, and documents.
• Screen magnifiers (ZoomText, Windows Magnifier) assist with reading and on-screen navigation.
• Accessible email clients and intranet tools with keyboard navigation and alt-text support ensure inclusive communication.

Hearing impairments:

• Real-time transcription tools (Otter.ai, Microsoft Teams captions) improve meeting accessibility.
• Video conferencing with live captions or interpreters ensures equal participation.
• Visual notifications replace audio alerts in workplace systems.

Motor disabilities:

• Speech recognition software (e.g., Dragon, Windows Speech Recognition) for hands-free computing.
• Adaptive input devices like ergonomic keyboards, head pointers, and eye-tracking systems.
• Customizable workstations for physical comfort and accessibility.

Cognitive disabilities:

• Task automation and reminder tools (e.g., Trello, Asana) for executive function support.
• Distraction-reducing apps (like Focus@Will or Freedom) to enhance concentration.
• Simplified interfaces and consistent layouts reduce cognitive load.

Employer responsibilities and best practices

• Conduct accessibility audits for internal systems and tools.
• Offer accommodations proactively – through HR processes or inclusive design from the outset.
• Train teams on digital accessibility, including how to create accessible documents, presentations, and emails.
• Integrate assistive technologies as standard options – not exceptions.

How to choose the right assistive technology

With so many tools available, selecting the right assistive technology can feel overwhelming. The key is to align the solution with the individual’s unique needs, context, and preferences – not just the disability category.

1. Start with the user’s goals

• What tasks or environments are most challenging?
• Is the goal communication, navigation, education, employment, or daily independence?
• Consider both short-term needs (e.g., exams, work apps) and long-term adaptability.

2. Assess needs and try solutions

• Needs assessments (conducted by AT specialists or therapists) help match tools to abilities and context.
• Trial periods or demos let users test tools before committing.
• Involving the user in the decision-making process is critical for long-term success.

3. Think about these key elements

• Compatibility: Will it work with the user’s current devices, browsers, or platforms?
• Ease of use: Is the interface intuitive and customizable?
• Support and training: Are tutorials, help guides, or community support available?
• Cost and funding: Are grants or employer/educational reimbursements available?

Pro tip: Remember that needs evolve. The right solution today may need adjusting tomorrow. Flexibility is key.

The post Assistive technology examples: Tools that empower access appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

From helping visually impaired individuals navigate websites to supporting neurodivergent learners in educational settings, TTS plays a vital role in building an inclusive digital world.

As digital content continues to multiply across platforms and devices, making sure that information is accessible to all users is no longer optional. Assistive technologies like TTS are essential components of accessibility compliance under global standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and the European Accessibility Act (EAA). But despite this importance, many organizations still don’t fully understand how TTS works, or how to optimize their content so that it’s truly accessible when read aloud by machines.

This article breaks down what TTS technology is, how it supports users with different abilities, and what you can do to keep your digital content working effectively. You’ll find implementation tips, real-world examples, and practical guidance that helps you build better, more inclusive experiences for every user.

What is Text-to-Speech (TTS) assistive technology?

TTS assistive technology is software that converts digital text into spoken words. It reads content aloud from screens, whether it’s a paragraph on a website, an email, or a menu in an app, allowing users to consume information audibly instead of visually.

Unlike screen readers, which provide complex navigation and interaction capabilities for blind users, TTS tools focus on voice output alone. 

They’re used by a broad range of people: not just those with disabilities, but also anyone who benefits from auditory learning, multitasking, or reduced screen time.

TTS systems can be built into devices (like iOS VoiceOver or Android’s Select to Speak), embedded in websites and apps, or installed as standalone software or browser extensions. 

High-quality TTS software often includes:

• Natural-sounding synthetic voices
• Multi-language and dialect support
• Speed and pitch controls
• Word and sentence highlighting while reading
• Compatibility with different content types (e.g., PDFs, HTML, eBooks)

TTS has become more sophisticated thanks to advances in AI and natural language processing, allowing voices to sound more human and less robotic, enhancing both comprehension and user experience.

How Text-to-Speech technology works

TTS technology follows a relatively straightforward process, but under the hood, it relies on sophisticated linguistic, computational, and audio processing techniques to deliver a natural listening experience.

1. Text analysis

The software begins by analyzing the raw text input. It breaks sentences into smaller units, identifies punctuation and grammatical structure, and prepares the content for speech conversion. This stage also includes normalization – for instance, turning “€10” into “ten euros” or “Dr.” into “doctor.”

2. Linguistic processing

Next, the TTS engine applies phonetic rules and natural language processing (NLP) to determine how each word should be pronounced. 

This step is essential for:

• Handling homographs (e.g., “lead” as in “to guide” vs. “a metal”)
• Adjusting intonation based on sentence type (statement vs. question)
• Focusing on correct stress and rhythm in multi-syllable words

3. Speech synthesis

Once the text is linguistically parsed, the engine generates speech using one of two main approaches:

• Concatenative synthesis: Strings together pre-recorded fragments of human speech.
• Neural or parametric synthesis: Uses deep learning to generate speech from scratch (e.g., Google’s WaveNet, Amazon Polly). This approach produces more natural and expressive voices.

4. Audio output

The final output is a spoken voice rendered through speakers or headphones. Advanced tools also include highlighting, allowing users to follow along visually as the text is read aloud – an important feature for improving literacy, attention, and comprehension.

Modern TTS engines are increasingly integrated into platforms, browsers, and operating systems, making the technology more accessible than ever. As capabilities expand, understanding these mechanics helps content creators and developers design experiences that support – rather than hinder – spoken interaction.

Who benefits from TTS assistive technology?

TTS isn’t just a tool for people with permanent disabilities. Its versatility makes it valuable across a wide range of user needs, contexts, and industries. 

Here’s a breakdown of who benefits most:

1. Individuals with visual impairments

For blind and low-vision users, TTS provides vital access to digital content. It allows them to consume information on websites, documents, and applications without needing to rely on visual cues.

• Example: A screen reader using TTS can read out webpage content, including headings, buttons, and links, enabling independent web navigation.

2. People with dyslexia or other reading disabilities

TTS helps decode complex or unfamiliar words, easing cognitive load and improving reading comprehension.

• Example: A student with dyslexia may use TTS to follow along with assigned readings, improving retention through dual auditory and visual input.

3. Individuals with ADHD or memory challenges

TTS can help users maintain focus and reinforce understanding by presenting content in a different sensory format.

• Example: Hearing a passage read aloud can support working memory and reduce distractions for people with attention difficulties.

4. Non-native language speakers

TTS offers clear pronunciation and pacing, aiding language learners and multilingual users.

• Example: A website visitor unfamiliar with written English may prefer listening to content rather than reading it.

5. People with motor disabilities

For users with limited mobility or dexterity, TTS allows for hands-free content consumption – especially useful when used with voice control or keyboard navigation.

• Example: A user with a tremor may find it easier to navigate using a screen reader and listen to content rather than scroll and click.

6. Mobile and situational users

Even users without any disability can benefit from TTS in specific contexts, such as multitasking, driving, or exercising.

• Example: A commuter may use TTS to listen to an article during a train ride instead of reading on a small screen.

The bottom line is that TTS technology makes digital content more inclusive, usable, and versatile for everyone, not just those with diagnosed disabilities.

Key features of effective TTS software

Not all TTS tools are created equal. While basic versions can read text aloud, the most effective TTS software includes a range of features designed to improve clarity, control, and user experience – especially for individuals who rely on it daily.

1. Natural-sounding voices

Modern TTS engines use neural networks and deep learning to simulate human speech patterns. 

You need to look for tools that offer:

• Expressive intonation
• Appropriate pacing and rhythm
• Regional accents or multilingual support

2. Customizable playback settings

Different users need different speeds, tones, and reading styles. 

Quality TTS tools allow users to:

• Adjust reading speed (slower for comprehension, faster for skimming)
• Modify pitch or emphasis
• Choose between male/female or child/adult voices

3. Highlighting and word tracking

Highlighting text as it’s read helps users follow along visually. 

This is especially helpful for:

• Users with dyslexia or reading difficulties
• Language learners building reading fluency

4. Pronunciation control

Advanced TTS software allows for customization of tricky words, acronyms, or brand names – especially important for:

• Medical or technical content
• Multilingual websites
• Company or industry-specific terms

5. Compatibility with assistive technologies

Effective TTS tools integrate well with:

• Screen readers (like NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver)
• Browsers and mobile apps
• Learning management systems (LMS)

6. Offline or cross-platform use

Some users need TTS access on the go, in low-bandwidth settings, or across different devices. 

You need to look for tools that support:

• Offline playback
• Cloud syncing of preferences and settings
• Browser extensions and mobile apps

Best TTS tools and software

Whether you’re designing a website, building educational tools, or crafting inclusive workplace policies, selecting the right TTS technology is essential. 

We’ve curated a list of the top-performing TTS tools, ranging from enterprise-level platforms to consumer-friendly apps.

1. Screen reader TTS engines

These tools are integrated with screen readers used by millions of people with visual and cognitive disabilities.

• JAWS (Job Access With Speech)
  – Industry standard for Windows users with vision loss
  – Highly customizable voice profiles and shortcut commands
  – Common in government and enterprise settings
• NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)
  – Open-source, free for Windows
  – Uses eSpeak or can integrate with premium voices like Vocalizer
• VoiceOver (macOS/iOS)
  – Built into all Apple devices
  – Includes high-quality voices with natural cadence
  – Syncs user settings across devices via iCloud
• TalkBack (Android)
  – Android’s native screen reader
  – Supported by Google’s speech services
  – Works well with Braille displays and other ATs

2. Standalone TTS applications

These tools are used for reading websites, documents, or books aloud, even by users without disabilities.

• NaturalReader
  – Supports PDFs, Docs, emails, and web pages
  – Offers offline mode and AI voices
  – Suitable for education and general productivity
• Read Aloud (Chrome/Edge Extension)
  – Free browser extension for reading web content
  – Supports multiple languages and speech engines
  – Popular with casual users and students
• Speech Central
  – Cross-platform TTS for Windows, macOS, iOS
  – Can read RSS feeds, websites, and books
  – Useful for professionals and language learners

3. Cloud-based and developer APIs

These are ideal for integrating TTS into apps, platforms, and digital products.

• Google Cloud Text-to-Speech
  – Over 220 voices in 40+ languages
  –  Offers WaveNet natural voice synthesis
  – Widely used in education, telehealth, and IoT devices
• Amazon Polly
  – Real-time and batch TTS support
  – Neural TTS (NTTS) options for lifelike speech
  – Integrates with Alexa, learning apps, and accessibility tools
• IBM Watson Text to Speech
  – Enterprise-grade security and scalability
  – Supports SSML (Speech Synthesis Markup Language) for custom pronunciation
  – Suitable for healthcare and enterprise solutions

TTS for web accessibility and inclusion

When integrated thoughtfully, TTS can dramatically enhance how users interact with websites, apps, and digital platforms.

Why TTS matters for accessibility

TTS plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with accessibility laws such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and the European Accessibility Act (EAA). Specifically, it supports:

• Perceivability: Helps users perceive content regardless of visual or cognitive ability.
• Operability: Offers alternative methods of accessing content for those who struggle with manual input or screen reading.
• Inclusivity: Makes digital services more usable for individuals with literacy challenges, second-language users, and aging populations.

Globally, over 2.2 billion people have some form of visual impairment (WHO, 2023). TTS makes information accessible to many of them.

Common applications of TTS in web accessibility

• Screen readers: These tools convert everything on a web page – text, buttons, menus – into spoken content.
• Accessible document readers: PDFs or Word docs with accessible formatting are read aloud using TTS tools.
• Audio guidance for forms: Well-structured labels and instructions read via TTS can improve form usability.
• Dynamic content alerts: ARIA live regions allow updates (like error messages) to be announced in real-time.

Best practices for TTS-friendly websites

• Use semantic HTML: Structure your site with clear headings (<h1>–<h6>), paragraphs (<p>), and landmarks (<nav>, <main>, <footer>) to help TTS parse the content.
• Label everything: Buttons, form fields, and links should all have proper aria-label, alt, or visible text.
• Avoid auto-playing audio: It can interfere with screen readers and confuse users relying on TTS.
• Ensure keyboard navigation: TTS users often rely on keyboard shortcuts – your site should support smooth tabbing and focus.

Tip: Use tools like Lighthouse or axe DevTools to test how TTS interacts with your site.

Applications of TTS in education and the workplace

TTS technology has moved far beyond its original use cases and now plays a pivotal role in enabling access to information in both educational and professional settings. Its flexible, multimodal delivery of content can boost inclusion, productivity, and learning outcomes for a broad range of users.

Education: Leveling the learning field

In classrooms and remote learning environments, TTS can:

• Support learners with reading or visual impairments by reading assignments, textbooks, and test instructions aloud.
• Help with comprehension for students who struggle with decoding written text – especially useful for learners with dyslexia, ADHD, or ESL (English as a second language) backgrounds.
• Encourage independent study by allowing students to listen to notes, handouts, and digital materials at their own pace.
• Reinforce auditory learning styles, helping students who absorb information better when it’s spoken rather than read.

Example: A student with dyslexia may use TTS to review homework instructions while following along with the text visually, increasing understanding and retention.

The workplace: supporting focus and productivity

TTS tools have also found their place in the modern workplace, especially as organizations move toward more inclusive digital environments. 

In this context, TTS can:

• Enable accessibility compliance in internal communications, training modules, and HR systems.
• Assist neurodivergent employees who may find spoken instructions easier to follow than dense documentation.
• Reduce cognitive load by allowing employees to “read” long reports or policy documents while multitasking.
• Facilitate productivity on the go, making it easier to absorb content during commutes or while completing manual tasks.

TTS is particularly valuable in hybrid or remote work settings, where digital content needs to be as inclusive and flexible as possible.

By integrating TTS features into their learning platforms and workplace tools, organizations create more equitable experiences and help people thrive – regardless of ability or preferred learning mode.

The challenges and limitations of TTS technology

While TTS technology offers immense benefits for accessibility and inclusion, it’s not without limitations. Understanding these challenges is essential for optimizing content and setting realistic expectations for users and implementers.

1. Lack of human-like nuance

Even the most advanced TTS engines can struggle to replicate the intonation, emotion, and rhythm of human speech. This can make the output sound robotic or monotonous, especially in long-form content or emotionally charged material.

• Impact: May reduce engagement or make it harder for users to interpret tone or emphasis.
• Mitigation: Choose TTS tools with natural-sounding voices and support for SSML (Speech Synthesis Markup Language) to control pitch, pauses, and pronunciation.

2. Contextual misinterpretation

TTS systems may mispronounce homographs (e.g., “lead” the verb vs. “lead” the metal), acronyms, or unusual proper nouns, especially without context clues or phonetic guidance.

• Impact: Could lead to confusion or misinformation.
• Mitigation: Use SSML or pronunciation guides in structured content when needed, and test outputs before publishing.

3. Language and dialect limitations

Although TTS supports an increasing number of languages and accents, coverage can still be limited for:

• Minority or regional languages
• Non-standard dialects
• Multilingual documents or websites
• Impact: May exclude users who speak less-common languages or rely on mixed-language content.
• Mitigation: Choose multilingual TTS providers and make sure fallback content or translations are available.

4. Compatibility and integration gaps

Not all websites, apps, or documents are designed with TTS users in mind. Poor semantic structure, missing alt text, or inaccessible navigation can reduce the effectiveness of TTS tools, even if the tools themselves are robust.

• Impact: Frustrating user experience, particularly for screen reader users.
• Mitigation: Apply accessible development practices, use semantic HTML, and test TTS compatibility across platforms.

5. Privacy and data security concerns

Some cloud-based TTS tools may require sending user input or personal data to third-party servers for processing.

• Impact: May raise compliance concerns under privacy regulations like GDPR.
• Mitigation: Select TTS solutions with transparent privacy policies and on-device processing options where necessary.

Final thoughts

Text-to-speech assistive technology is a powerful tool for promoting accessibility, inclusion, and digital equality. But it only works when paired with thoughtful content and accessible design practices. Whether you’re a developer, content creator, educator, or product leader, taking steps to make your content TTS-friendly can open digital doors for countless users.

By adopting inclusive content strategies, testing with real users, and selecting TTS-compatible platforms, you help make sure that everyone – regardless of ability – can engage with your content fully and independently.

The post Creating content for everyone: A guide to Text-to-Speech assistive technology appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

That’s the problem of poor color contrast in action. 

Color is a beautiful thing, with a whole spectrum to pick from – but for millions of people with visual impairments, that same rainbow can be a daily barrier. 

Think of color contrast like the volume dial on your content’s clarity. Turn it down too low, and your message gets lost, especially for those with visual impairments. 

And yet, many websites still fall short, using color combos that make content hard to read or interact with.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what color contrast accessibility means, why it matters, and what changes you can make to your site to get it right. 

What is color contrast accessibility? 

Color contrast accessibility refers to using color combinations that provide sufficient contrast between text (or other foreground elements) and the background. 

It plays a big role in making digital content readable and accessible for everyone, especially those with visual impairments such as color blindness and low vision. Without having the right contrast, important content can become difficult, or even impossible in some cases, to read. 

Why does color contrast matter for accessibility?

Poor color contrast is one of the most common and overlooked accessibility issues in digital design.

When contrast isn’t balanced properly:

• Users with color vision impairments may not be able to distinguish text or interface elements
• People with low vision may struggle to read small or light text
• Mobile users in bright environments may have trouble seeing content 

Who benefits from proper color contrast?

Improving color contrast isn’t just a simple matter of meeting legal requirements, although that is important. It’s also about being able to improve the user experience for a wide range of people, including:

• Users with visual impairments (color blindness, cataracts, glaucoma, etc.) 
• Older users with age-related vision changes
• Mobile users viewing content in sunlight
• Anyone experiencing fatigue or distraction 

Accessible color contrasts benefit everyone. They make content clear, easier to engage with, help widen your audience, but also, things just look better, and what’s not to like about that?

WCAG guidelines for color contrast

 The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide clear guidelines for color contrast accessibility. 

They state:

• Minimum contrast ratio: Text and background color combinations must have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1
• Large text: For 18pt or 14pt bold, the minimum contrast ratio is 3:1
• UI elements and graphical objects: These should have a contrast ratio of 3:1 against adjacent colors 

By following this criteria, you can make sure all of your site users can see content clearly, no matter their visual ability. 

Common color contrast issues and their impact

Even when teams are fully clued into contrast issues and have good intentions, issues can still slip through the cracks – especially during the rush of product development or visual branding. 

Understanding the most common pitfalls can help you catch them early and build more inclusive designs from the ground up. 

Typical issues can include:

• Light gray text on white backgrounds
• Low contrast buttons and links
• Using color alone to convey information (e.g., red for errors)

These common, yet avoidable mistakes can lead to things such as:

• Increased user frustration
• Higher bounce rates
• Legal compliance risks 

Best practices for designing with accessible color contrast

Good design is about aesthetics, of course. But it’s also about function and inclusion.

When it comes to color contrast, a few intentional choices can go a long way toward making your content readable for everyone. 

Here’s how to build accessibility into your design right from the start: 

• Use high-contrast color combinations: Dark text on a light background or vice versa
• Avoid relying solely on color to communicate: Use icons, labels, or underlines for clarity
• Test your palette early: Check contrast ratios before finalizing your design elements
• Be mindful of branding colors: Adjust shades if necessary to meet contrast requirements 

Top color contrast checkers and testing tools

Designing with accessibility in mind should never be about guesswork.

There are a number of different tools that take any mystery out of contrast compliance, giving you clear feedback and actionable suggestions.

Here are a few helpful tools you can use to test and improve your color contrast: 

• WebAIM Contrast Checker: A simple tool that lets you input text and background colors to instantly check contrast ratios
• Accessible Colors (by Material Design): Helps designers choose accessible color palettes that work well within Material Design standards
• Tanaguru Contrast-Finder: Suggests compliant color alternatives when your original choices don’t meet accessibility thresholds
• Color Contrast Analyzer (by TPGi): A downloadable tool that tests contrast on web pages and software interfaces, including visual simulations

How to fix poor color contrast in websites and apps

Spotted a contrast issue? Not to worry, they’re usually a quick fix. 

Whether you’re updating a single button or reworking your entire color scheme, these steps will help you bring your contrast up to standard. 

If your audit reveals issues:

• Adjust foreground or background colors to meet the required ratio
• Use semi-transparent overlays or shading to improve contrast
• Reconsider font size and weight for better legibility
• Use automated tools to retest and validate changes

Legal requirements for color contrast compliance

Beyond usability, color contrast has legal weight. As accessibility regulations tighten worldwide, making sure you have compliant contrast ratios is essential, not optional.

Several global laws and standards emphasize color contrast as a key part of accessibility:

• ADA (US): Enforced under Title III for public digital spaces
• WCAG: Internationally recognized technical standard
• EAA (EU): Requires accessibility for many digital services by 2025

Color contrast makes or breaks accessibility

Color contrast accessibility plays a huge role in shaping an inclusive and legally sound experience of an inclusive and legally compliant digital experience. 

By understanding the rules, testing your content, and applying thoughtful design practices, you can make your site more readable, more user-friendly, and more future-proof.

Frequently asked questions

The post Color contrast accessibility: What it is and how to get it right appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

Sure, they look nice, but there’s nothing all that special or important about them, right?

Think again. 

There is far more behind fonts than a simple matter of typography. 

They have the power to make content fun or serious, playful or straight-laced; they give hints as to what the reader can expect next, like a helpful guidebook, a friendly voice, or a clearly marked path. 

But they can also do the opposite. 

For users with visual impairments, dyslexia, or cognitive challenges, the wrong typeface can turn simple letters and numbers into impenetrable barriers. 

In this guide, we’ll take a look at why fonts matter, how to choose the most accessible fonts, and how to implement them effectively in your digital content. 

Why font choice matters for accessibility

Choosing the right font isn’t just a matter of aesthetics; it’s also about being inclusive. 

Fonts can influence how easily content is perceived, understood, and navigated – and when chosen thoughtfully, typography supports accessibility for people with diverse needs. 

Typography affects legibility, comprehension, and fatigue. So when you choose an inaccessible font, you can create significant barriers to understanding – even when the content itself is well written and accessible. 

Here’s why it matters: 

• Legibility and comprehension: The right font reduces eye strain and supports faster reading.
• Neurodiverse needs: Font style can help or hinder users with low vision, dyslexia, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions.
• Legal alignment: Typography plays a role in meeting WCAG’s readability and perceivability standards. 

Key characteristics of an accessible font

So what actually makes a font accessible?

While aesthetic preferences vary, certain characteristics consistently enhance the readability for all users. These traits reduce cognitive strain and help prevent misreading:

• Simple, open letterforms: Avoid overly ornate styles that make characters hard to distinguish. 
• Large x-height: Taller lowercase letters improve legibility, especially at smaller sizes. 
• Generous character spacing: This helps prevent letters from blending into one another, especially in longer passages. 
• Clear distinction between similar shapes: Characters like “l, I, and 1” or “o, O, and 0” should look noticeably different. 
• Minimal decoration or compression: Fonts that are too stylized or condensed reduce readability, especially when being viewed on a mobile device like a phone or iPad. 

Sans-serif vs. serif fonts: which is more accessible?

There’s an ongoing debate in the design world about serif vs. sans-serif fonts. But when it comes to accessibility, one type generally comes out on top.

Sans-serif fonts like Arial or Helvetica are generally easier to read on screens.

Serif fonts can work in print or headings, but may reduce legibility for users with dyslexia or low vision.

Most accessible fonts for readability

Certain fonts are widely recognized for their clarity and readability. They’re frequently used in inclusive design because they work well across devices and are familiar to users.

• Arial: Clean and common
• Verdana: Wider spacing, large x-height
• Tahoma: Legible on screens
• Trebuchet MS: Open, rounded characters
• Helvetica: Widely used, but tighter spacing may require adjustments
• Roboto: Modern sans-serif with good readability

A good tip is to test font rendering across devices, as some system fonts vary in performance. 

Best fonts for dyslexia and cognitive accessibility

For users with dyslexia and other cognitive conditions, specially designed fonts can make a big difference. They can improve comprehension and reduce frustration, vastly improving their experience with your site. 

These typefaces use unique visual cues to make each letter more distinct.

• OpenDyslexic: Specially designed to reduce letter confusion
• Lexend: Reduces visual stress and improves reading speed
• Atkinson Hyperlegible: Designed by Braille Institute with clear differentiation
• Read Regular: Tailored to dyslexic readers

These fonts use visual strategies like heavier bottoms, wider spacing, and unique shapes to reduce people’s cognitive load and make everything much easier to understand. 

Font size, spacing, and line height: How they affect accessibility

Typography is also about how you present your typefaces – with key aspects like size, spacing, and formatting all influencing readability. 

Here’s how to get it right:

• Minimum font size for accessibility: WCAG recommends at least 16px for body text.
• Line height: Use 1.5x line spacing for body text (as per WCAG 1.4.8).
• Letter spacing: Aim for at least 0.12x the font size.
• Word spacing: Target 0.16x the font size.

It’s also a good idea to use relative units (em/rem) for flexibility and avoid fixed pixel sizes on responsive layouts.

Fonts to avoid for accessibility

Let’s be honest, some fonts just look great. Whether that’s in a brand deck, on a presentation, or across your site. 

But the issue is that these can also seriously hinder readability online. 

When accessibility is the goal, steer clear of these common culprits:

• Cursive or script fonts: Hard to parse quickly
• Condensed fonts: Reduce spacing and character distinction
• Decorative/stylized fonts: Especially problematic for neurodivergent users
• Comic Sans: Although sometimes recommended for dyslexia, it’s divisive, and it can be argued that it lacks professionalism

WCAG guidelines for typography and readability

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) include several checkpoints that relate directly to typography. 

These help you make sure your content remains clear and readable in diverse contexts.

• WCAG 2.2 Success Criterion 1.4.12 (Text Spacing)
• 1.4.3 (Contrast), 1.4.4 (Resize Text), and 1.4.8 (Visual Presentation)
• Emphasize: “No loss of content or functionality” when resized or reformatted

You can take a look at the WCAG guidelines and the specific clauses above by visiting their website here. 

Make accessible font choices part of your design DNA

Even though it may not be the first thing to spring to mind, typography really does shape the reading experience. 

By making smart, accessible choices – from font selection to spacing and formatting – you can create content that works for more people, more of the time.

And when your content and site are more accessible, this doesn’t just benefit those with additional needs – it creates a more rounded, streamlined experience for everyone who visits your site. 

Frequently asked questions about accessible fonts

The post Most accessible fonts: How to choose typography that supports inclusion appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

Everything from education to healthcare, banking, shopping, and government services is online, but millions of people are still being left behind.

Digital inclusion means making sure that everyone, regardless of income, location, age, ability, or literacy, can access and use digital technologies effectively. 

It’s about equity. It’s about empowerment. And in 2025, it’s more urgent than ever.

According to the World Bank, nearly 3 billion people still don’t use the internet. Even among those who do, many face barriers due to inaccessible interfaces, lack of digital skills, or unreliable infrastructure. 

The result? A growing digital divide that mirrors – and often magnifies – existing social and economic inequalities.

Digital exclusion doesn’t just affect individuals. It limits participation in democracy, reduces workforce potential, and creates reputational and legal risks for organizations. As businesses and institutions digitize rapidly, they must make sure that progress doesn’t leave people behind.

Fortunately, digital inclusion isn’t an abstract ideal – it’s something we can build through thoughtful design, policy, and technology. And web accessibility plays a foundational role in making it possible.

This article will explore the key pillars of digital inclusion, the barriers people face, and what governments, businesses, and digital teams can do to promote a truly inclusive digital future.

The key barriers to digital inclusion

Despite growing awareness, digital inclusion remains out of reach for many. That’s because the barriers to full participation are not just technical – they’re social, economic, physical, and cultural. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most common and persistent obstacles:

1. Infrastructure and affordability

• In many regions, broadband access is limited or prohibitively expensive.
• Even in urban centers, some households can’t afford data plans, devices, or consistent electricity.
• Rural and low-income communities are disproportionately affected by infrastructure gaps.

2. Lack of digital skills

• Access doesn’t guarantee capability. Millions struggle with basic tasks like creating passwords, navigating websites, or sending emails.
• The digital skills gap is especially pronounced among older adults, people with lower literacy, and those with limited education.

3. Accessibility barriers

• Many websites, apps, and services are not designed with disabled users in mind.
• Barriers include poor color contrast, missing alt text, inaccessible forms, and incompatible designs for assistive technologies.

4. Language and literacy challenges

• Digital content that is overly complex or not available in users’ native language can exclude large groups.
• This particularly affects migrants, multilingual communities, and people with learning differences such as dyslexia.

5. Cultural and motivational factors

• Distrust in digital platforms, fear of online scams, or cultural stigma around technology can discourage participation.
• Some people simply don’t see digital tools as relevant or safe.

Solving digital inclusion requires addressing these barriers holistically, not just with tech, but through policy, education, design, and empathy.

The role of accessibility in digital inclusion

Digital inclusion and accessibility are deeply interconnected, but they’re not interchangeable.

While digital inclusion is the broader concept of ensuring equitable participation in the digital world, accessibility focuses specifically on removing barriers for people with disabilities. It’s a crucial pillar of digital inclusion – and often the first step toward achieving it.

WCAG: The accessibility foundation

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide a framework for designing inclusive digital experiences. 

Their principles – Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR) – are used globally as a benchmark for accessibility compliance.

Accessibility is the gateway

By addressing accessibility, organizations automatically improve usability for all. Clear navigation, descriptive links, flexible layouts, and readable fonts benefit everyone – not just disabled users.

In other words, you can’t have digital inclusion without accessibility. It’s the baseline for building digital experiences that respect and reflect human diversity.

How governments and organizations promote digital inclusion

Tackling digital exclusion is not the responsibility of one group alone. It takes collaboration between governments, non-profits, businesses, educators, and technologists to create an inclusive digital society.

Here’s how different sectors are making progress:

Government-led initiatives

Many countries have launched national digital inclusion strategies focused on expanding access, improving digital skills, and ensuring accessibility. For example:

• The European Union mandates accessibility through the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which requires many digital services to be accessible by 2025.
• Local councils and municipalities often fund digital literacy training, especially for older adults and job seekers.

Private sector contributions

Forward-thinking companies are embedding digital inclusion into their products and services by:

• Investing in accessible design from the ground up
• Offering free or subsidized access to digital tools and connectivity (e.g., Google’s Chromebooks for Education or Microsoft’s Airband Initiative)
• Partnering with non-profits to fund training programs for marginalized communities
• Building internal diversity and inclusion teams to shape digital equity strategies

Non-profits and community groups

Organizations like the Digital Equity Foundation, AbilityNet, and Good Things Foundation play a key role in:

• Delivering community-based tech support
• Running inclusion-focused awareness campaigns
• Advocating for inclusive policies and funding

Ultimately, digital inclusion is a shared responsibility. Governments can create the regulatory foundation, but lasting change requires public-private cooperation and user-centered design.

Best practices for improving digital inclusion

Digital inclusion is not a one-time initiative; it’s a mindset embedded in design, delivery, and communication. The following best practices help ensure that your digital products and services are usable and beneficial to everyone.

1. Design with accessibility from the start

Embed accessibility and inclusive design principles into your development lifecycle rather than retrofitting later. Use semantic HTML, provide alt text, ensure keyboard navigability, and maintain strong color contrast.

2. Simplify language and navigation

Use plain language, intuitive layouts, and clear CTAs. Avoid jargon. A well-structured interface helps everyone, especially users with cognitive disabilities, low literacy, or language barriers.

3. Test with diverse users

Involve people from different backgrounds, age groups, and ability levels in user testing. Their feedback reveals friction points that homogenous testing often misses.

4. Provide multiple ways to access content

Offer alternatives: text transcripts for audio, video captions, and downloadable documents in accessible formats. This makes sure users can engage in the way that works best for them.

5. Offer digital skills support

Consider how you can provide or link to training and onboarding materials, especially for tools that may be new to your audience. A friendly FAQ or step-by-step guide can make a big difference.

6. Regularly audit and update

Use accessibility testing tools and perform regular reviews to make sure your content stays inclusive as your product evolves.

By embracing these best practices, you build trust, loyalty, and compliance.

The impact of assistive technology on digital inclusion

Assistive technology (AT) plays a vital role in closing the digital divide for people with disabilities. By enabling access to digital content and services, these tools make inclusion not just possible, but practical.

What is assistive technology?

Assistive technology includes devices, software, and tools that help people with disabilities perform tasks they might otherwise find difficult or impossible. In the digital world, this can range from simple screen magnifiers to advanced speech-to-text systems.

Common examples of digital assistive tech

• Screen readers: Convert on-screen text into speech or braille for users with visual impairments.
• Text-to-speech tools: Help users with dyslexia, ADHD, or low literacy access written content more easily.
• Voice recognition software: Allows users to navigate and input text via speech instead of a keyboard.
• Alternative input devices: Such as eye-tracking tools or adaptive switches for users with limited mobility.
• Customizable interfaces: Options for resizing text, adjusting color contrast, or selecting dyslexia-friendly fonts.

Why assistive tech matters

Assistive technology empowers independence and participation in:

• Education: Helping students access digital learning platforms
• Employment: Enabling remote work and professional development
• Healthcare: Supporting patients in managing telehealth or booking appointments
• Civic life: Allowing individuals to vote, access government services, and connect with their communities

Digital inclusion in education and the workplace

Access to digital tools and content is essential for learning, professional development, and career participation. However, digital exclusion continues to create inequality in both education and employment.

Education: Learning without limits

Digital education platforms are now standard in all settings, from K-12 classrooms to higher education and remote learning environments. But without inclusive design, these tools can unintentionally exclude students with disabilities or those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Common barriers include:

• Learning portals that don’t work with screen readers
• Videos without captions
• Text-heavy content that isn’t readable for dyslexic learners

Solutions:

• Use accessible learning management systems (LMS)
• Provide multi-format content (e.g., audio, video, transcripts)
• Offer digital literacy training for students and educators alike

Inclusion in education correlates with long-term academic success and employment outcomes, so it goes beyond ethics.

The workplace: Inclusion as a competitive advantage

Many jobs now rely on digital platforms, from recruitment and onboarding to daily collaboration and upskilling. Yet employees with disabilities often encounter inaccessible systems that hinder productivity and advancement.

Examples:

• Job applications incompatible with keyboard navigation
• Training videos without subtitles
• Intranet tools that lack accessibility controls

Best practices:

• Make sure HR platforms and digital tools meet WCAG standards
• Provide assistive technology support and personalized accommodations
• Make inclusive design a part of company culture and DEI strategy

Digital inclusion in the workplace is about unlocking the full potential of a diverse workforce and attracting talent from all backgrounds.

How businesses can support digital inclusion

Businesses have a powerful role to play in shaping a digital world that works for everyone. Beyond compliance, digital inclusion is a strategic advantage – it opens access to broader markets, improves user experience, and strengthens brand trust.

Here are key ways your organization can contribute:

1. Audit your digital products

Conduct a comprehensive accessibility audit across your websites, apps, and internal platforms. Identify barriers that could exclude users with disabilities, older adults, or individuals with limited digital literacy.

2. Embed inclusive design in your development process

Make inclusive design principles a default. Involve users with diverse needs during product research and usability testing. Use accessible fonts, meaningful link text, flexible layouts, and semantic code from the start.

3. Educate your teams

Invest in ongoing training for developers, content creators, and marketers on accessibility best practices and the importance of inclusive UX. Make this part of your DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) strategy.

4. Support assistive technology compatibility

Ensure your services work smoothly with screen readers, voice navigation tools, and keyboard-only browsing. Test with multiple devices and software types.

5. Partner with purpose

Work with organizations that promote digital inclusion – whether through sponsorships, open-source contributions, or employee volunteering. Use your reach to amplify awareness and action.

6. Leverage compliance as a baseline, not a finish line

Laws like the European Accessibility Act and ADA offer clear benchmarks, but true inclusion goes beyond checklists – so aim to meet user needs, not just legal minimums.

Conclusion: Building a digitally inclusive future, together

Digital inclusion is more than a policy or best practice; it’s a reflection of how we value equity, participation, and human potential in an increasingly digital world.

By removing barriers, embracing inclusive design, supporting assistive technologies, and widening access to digital tools, we unlock opportunities for millions of people. It’s good for society, good for business, and essential for long-term growth.

Whether you’re designing a website, building a platform, shaping policy, or leading a team, your role matters. Inclusion isn’t the responsibility of one department or one decision, it’s a commitment embedded across every touchpoint of the digital experience.

The post A guide to digital inclusion: Breaking barriers in the digital age appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

You land on a website only to find that it all makes zero sense.  

The content is unreadable, key functions are hidden, and you can’t make head nor tail of how to find what you’re looking for. 

For millions of people who rely on screen readers, this isn’t a hypothetical situation – it’s a daily digital experience.

Screen readers are essential tools for digital accessibility. They convert on-screen content into synthesized speech or Braille, allowing people with visual impairments to navigate websites and applications with ease. 

But in reality, many developers and designers lack a clear understanding of how these tools work and what makes a digital experience accessible. 

It’s a knowledge gap that can unintentionally exclude people who rely on screen readers every day. 

In this article, we break down what screen readers are, how they function, who uses them, and how sites can be designed inclusively – with a few technical tips and practical examples thrown in. 

What are screen readers?

First things first, what exactly are screen readers?

Essentially, they’re assistive technologies that read digital content aloud or translate it into Braille. 

They help users navigate content using a keyboard or input methods other than a typical mouse. Screen readers rely on the structure and semantics of HTML code to make sense of web content. 

How do screen readers work?

Screen readers work by building an “accessibility tree,” which is a simplified version of the webpage’s underlying structure (called the DOM, or Document Object Model). 

This “tree” picks up on meaningful elements in the code, like headings, labels, and ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes – all of which help users make sense of the content. 

It’ll also give navigation shortcuts to move through headings, landmarks, links, and form fields. That’s why proper markup and labeling are crucial for easy navigation. 

Who uses screen readers?

Screen readers are mostly used by people with:

• Full visual impairment
• Low vision
• Cognitive or learning disabilities
• Temporary visual impairment (e.g., recovering from eye surgery)

Users often pair screen readers with keyboard navigation, screen magnifiers, or Braille displays. 

Popular screen readers: A comparison

With several screen readers available across different platforms, it helps to understand which ones are the most commonly used and how they differ. 

Here are some of the most widely used screen readers: 

Screen readers by platform

Screen readers are built to work across different operating systems, and each platform comes with its own set of tools, features, and user expectations. 

If you’re designing for inclusivity, it’s important to know what screen readers are available on each system and how they differ from each other. 

• Windows: JAWS and NVDA dominate this space. NVDA is often favored by developers thanks to its open-source nature. 
• macOS/iOS: VoiceOver is built in and fully integrated with Apple hardware, so it’s the go-to option. 
• Android: TalkBack offers accessibility support across Android apps and devices, so again, it’s the go-to option for Android users. 

Each system has its own keyboard shortcuts and navigation paradigms, so testing across platforms is always a good idea. 

How screen readers improve digital accessibility

Screen readers are a bridge between visual interfaces and non-visual experiences. 

They support accessibility in several key ways: 

• Access to information: They give millions of users access to web content they wouldn’t otherwise be able to enjoy
• Better code structure: They encourage better semantic markup, which benefits SEO
• Legal compliance: They help websites meet accessibility laws like the ADA and the European Accessibility Act

Common challenges screen reader users face

Despite all the best intentions, many digital experiences still fall short when it comes to accessibility. 

Screen reader users often face a range of barriers that make navigation frustrating, or in some extreme cases, impossible. 

Some common challenges include:

• Poor heading structure: Skipping heading levels or not using them properly
• Missing alt text: Non-descriptive or absent alt attributes on images
• Inaccessible forms: Forms that don’t include visible labels or instructions can confuse screen reader users who rely on auditory cues to complete fields
• Dynamic content: When content updates (like notifications or form results) aren’t announced, users may miss important information
• Misused ARIA roles: Applying ARIA roles incorrectly can interfere with how content is interpreted, leading to disorientation or errors

Best practices for screen reader-friendly websites

Designing for screen reader accessibility doesn’t have to be complicated – but it does require intentional choices. 

Here are some practical ways to make your website more usable for screen reader users:

• Use semantic HTML (e.g., <nav>, <main>, <button>, <label>)
• Write descriptive alt attributes for images
• Label all form inputs with <label> or aria-label
• Use heading tags in a logical order
• Provide keyboard navigation and focus styles
• Avoid using visual cues alone (e.g., “Click the red button”)
• Use meaningful link text (e.g., avoid “Click here”)

How to test your website for screen reader compatibility

Testing is always an important step in any accessibility effort. 

Luckily, there are a number of different tools and techniques you can use to help you evaluate how well your site works with screen readers. 

• Stress-test with screen readers: Use popular readers like VoiceOver, NVDA, or TalkBack as a good barometer to test your interface
• Browser tools: Use tools like Lighthouse to audit your site’s accessibility directly in the browser, giving you quick, actionable feedback
• Extensions: Add-ons like axe DevTools and WAVE can help pinpoint specific code-level issues affecting screen reader compatibility
• Real user testing: The most accurate and meaningful way to test your accessibility is by observing real users interacting with your site using their preferred screen readers

Screen reader accessibility matters

As with any accessibility improvements, creating screen reader-friendly experiences isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. 

Not only does it help with your site’s SEO and keep your site compliant with evolving laws and expectations, it makes the web a more inclusive and welcoming place for everyone. 

By understanding how screen readers work and taking simple, thoughtful steps in your design and development process, you can help remove barriers that stand in the way of equal access. 

So start with small improvements, keep testing, and make accessibility a standard part of your workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post How to make your website screen reader-friendly (and why it matters) appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

For organizations looking to improve digital inclusion, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the global standard. But despite their importance, many teams find WCAG intimidating and hard to apply in real-world projects.

WCAG provides the framework used by most digital accessibility laws worldwide, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the European Accessibility Act (EAA). Whether you’re building a new site or auditing existing content, WCAG is likely the compliance benchmark you’ll need to meet.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered – this article will walk you through the essentials:

• What WCAG is and why it matters
• How it’s structured (versions, levels, and principles)
• Common challenges and how to overcome them
• Practical steps and tools to help you get started

This guide will help you make sense of WCAG and begin implementing it with confidence.

What are the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)?

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines are internationally recognized standards for making digital content accessible to people with disabilities. Developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) through its Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI), WCAG provides a comprehensive set of guidelines that apply to websites, mobile apps, digital documents, and other online services.

The goal of WCAG is simple: to make content perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users. Especially those with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments. 

These guidelines are not just best practices, they’re the foundation for most global digital accessibility laws.

If your organization is subject to regulations like the ADA (in the U.S.), Section 508, or the European Accessibility Act (EAA), WCAG is likely the standard you need to follow. Most laws specifically reference WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the minimum threshold for compliance.

Importantly, WCAG is technology-neutral. It doesn’t tell you how to code, it tells you what the outcome should be. So, it can be applied across platforms, devices, and development frameworks.

Why WCAG matters for web accessibility

The WCAG matters because it helps make the internet usable by everyone. For the 1.3+ billion people worldwide who live with a disability (WHO, 2023), WCAG compliance can mean the difference between accessing services, or being excluded from them entirely.

But WCAG doesn’t just benefit users. It also helps businesses:

Get on the road to compliance

Most digital accessibility laws, including the ADA (U.S.), Section 508 (U.S. federal agencies), and the European Accessibility Act, use WCAG as their technical benchmark. Failing to comply can lead to lawsuits, fines, or being excluded from public-sector contracts.

Improve user experience for all

Clear navigation, descriptive links, readable text, and alternative formats aren’t just useful for users with disabilities; they benefit everyone. Inclusive UX often leads to fewer errors, longer sessions, and better conversions.

Boost SEO and discoverability

WCAG-aligned content tends to follow best practices like semantic HTML, alt text for images, and clean heading structures – all of which are also favored by search engines.

Build trust and brand reputation

Meeting WCAG shows that your organization cares about equity, ethics, and user well-being – values that increasingly influence customer decisions.

WCAG versions: Understanding 2.0, 2.1, and 2.2

The WCAG has evolved over time to keep pace with how we use technology. While the core principles have remained the same, each version of WCAG introduces new success criteria to address emerging accessibility needs – especially for mobile, cognitive, and low-vision users.

WCAG 2.0 (Published 2008)

This foundational version introduced the POUR framework and the concept of three conformance levels (A, AA, AAA). It remains the legal standard in some regions, but is now largely superseded.

WCAG 2.1 (Published 2018)

WCAG 2.1 added 17 new success criteria to better address mobile accessibility, touch interactions, zooming/scaling, and additional support for people with cognitive and vision-related disabilities.

Most accessibility laws – including the EAA and ADA – now refer to WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the compliance benchmark.

WCAG 2.2 (Published 2023)

The latest version builds on 2.1 with nine new success criteria focused on navigation, input help, and cognitive support (e.g., clear focus indicators, accessible authentication).

What about WCAG 3.0?

WCAG 3.0 is under development and will represent a major shift – but it’s not a current requirement. Stick with 2.1 Level AA for now unless your jurisdiction mandates 2.2.

The four principles of WCAG (POUR)

At the heart of the WCAG are four foundational principles. These principles – Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR) – ensure that content is accessible across a wide spectrum of user needs and technologies.

Perceivable

Users must be able to detect and interpret content using one or more senses.

Examples:

• Provide alt text for images so screen readers can describe them
• Use captions and transcripts for video and audio content
• Ensure sufficient color contrast between text and backgrounds
• Avoid relying solely on color to convey meaning

Operable

Users must be able to navigate and interact with all interface elements.

Examples:

• Enable full keyboard navigation for users who don’t use a mouse
• Use visible focus indicators to show where the cursor is
• Avoid keyboard traps (i.e., where a user gets stuck on an element)
• Give users enough time to complete actions

Understandable

Users must be able to comprehend the information and how to interact with the interface.

Examples:

• Use clear, predictable navigation
• Write in plain language
• Label form fields and buttons clearly
• Provide helpful error messages and suggestions

Robust

Content must be compatible with a range of devices and assistive technologies.

Examples:

• Use semantic HTML and ARIA roles correctly
• Ensure content works across browsers, devices, and screen readers
• Validate code for accessibility and responsiveness

POUR gives teams a structured way to think about accessibility – and a flexible framework to guide implementation.

WCAG conformance levels: A, AA, and AAA explained

WCAG defines three levels of conformance – A, AA, and AAA – which represent increasing levels of accessibility. These levels help organizations prioritize and plan their accessibility efforts.

Level A – Minimum accessibility

This is the baseline. Meeting Level A means your content avoids major blockers that would completely prevent some users from accessing it.

Examples:

• Alt text on images
• Keyboard navigation
• Avoiding flashing content that could trigger seizures

Level A is essential, but it doesn’t ensure a usable experience for many users.

Level AA – Legal and practical standard

Level AA includes all Level A requirements, plus additional criteria that address color contrast, form errors, navigation consistency, and more.

Examples:

• Minimum 4.5:1 color contrast for text
• Descriptive link text
• Visible focus states for interactive elements
• Error suggestions for form inputs

Most accessibility laws, including the ADA and EAA, require WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the minimum compliance level.

Level AAA – Maximum accessibility

Level AAA includes the most advanced criteria, such as:

• Live sign language interpretation for media
• 7:1 contrast for all text
• Context-sensitive help throughout

It’s not always practical to meet every AAA guideline, but teams can adopt specific AAA techniques where feasible – especially for critical content.

Key WCAG guidelines every website should follow

While WCAG includes dozens of success criteria, some guidelines consistently have the most immediate impact on accessibility and user experience. If you’re working toward WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance, these are the areas to prioritize:

Provide alt text for images

Every meaningful image should include a descriptive alt attribute so screen readers can convey the content to users who are blind or have low vision. Decorative images should use empty alt text to avoid cluttering the user experience.

Ensure sufficient color contrast

Text must have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background. This ensures readability for users with visual impairments or color blindness.

Support full keyboard navigation

All interactive elements – like menus, buttons, and forms – must be accessible using only a keyboard. Avoid traps and make sure focus indicators are clearly visible.

Make links and buttons descriptive

Avoid vague link text like “click here.” Instead, describe the destination or action – e.g., “Download the report.”

Provide clear form instructions and error messages

Forms must include labels, input instructions, and accessible feedback for errors or required fields.

Common barriers to WCAG compliance

Implementing WCAG can feel overwhelming – especially for teams juggling multiple priorities, legacy systems, and tight timelines. Here are some of the most common obstacles organizations face and how to navigate them:

Legacy code and outdated CMS templates

Older websites often lack semantic HTML or keyboard-friendly components, making retrofitting for accessibility difficult.

Lack of in-house expertise

Not every team has an accessibility specialist or frontend developer familiar with WCAG.

Misinterpreting WCAG language

WCAG documentation can be technical and dense, especially for non-developers.

Siloed ownership across teams

Design, content, and development often work in isolation – making accessibility harder to coordinate.

The path to compliance doesn’t have to be perfect, just proactive and ongoing.

How to make your website WCAG compliant

WCAG compliance doesn’t have to happen all at once. The most effective way to meet the guidelines is to take a phased, practical approach – starting with high-impact improvements and building toward long-term sustainability.

Here’s a step-by-step strategy to help you get started:

1. Run an accessibility audit

Use a combination of automated tools (like WAVE, axe, or Lighthouse) and manual testing (keyboard navigation, screen reader checks, zoom/resizing) to identify barriers on your site.

2. Prioritize what to fix

Focus first on:

• High-traffic or conversion-critical pages (e.g., forms, checkout, login)
• Issues affecting core WCAG 2.1 Level AA criteria
• Quick wins with high usability impact (e.g., contrast, alt text, link clarity)

3. Implement accessibility enhancements

Fix content and design issues directly where feasible. For broader support, consider using iubenda’s Accessibility Widget to implement scalable, standards-aligned improvements.

4. Build accessibility into your workflow

Make sure that new content, pages, and features are reviewed for accessibility as part of your design and dev process. Use inclusive design components, accessible patterns, and checklists in your design system.

5. Review regularly

Accessibility isn’t a one-time fix. Schedule periodic audits and stay updated as WCAG evolves – make it a recurring part of QA and governance.

WCAG compliance is an ongoing journey – but each improvement brings you closer to a more inclusive and resilient product.

Best tools for WCAG accessibility testing

Testing is a crucial step in achieving and maintaining WCAG compliance. While no tool can catch every issue, the right combination of automated and manual methods can significantly reduce accessibility gaps.

Here are some of the most trusted tools to help your team:

Automated testing tools

• WAVE (WebAIM) – Browser-based tool for checking contrast, structure, and ARIA issues
• axe DevTools – Chrome/Firefox extension that flags WCAG violations and suggests fixes
• Google Lighthouse – Built into Chrome DevTools; scores accessibility and performance
• Siteimprove / Deque / Tenon – Enterprise-level automated testing and monitoring solutions

Manual and assistive tech testing

• NVDA (Windows) / VoiceOver (Mac) – Free screen readers for real-world interaction testing
• Keyboard-only navigation – Tab through your site to test focus order and usability
• Zoom and scaling – Ensure layout remains usable at 200% magnification or more
• Color contrast checkers – Test color pairings for WCAG ratios (e.g., WebAIM, TPGi)

Even small testing efforts can surface issues that make a major difference in usability, especially for people relying on assistive technologies.

Make WCAG compliance part of your digital strategy

WCAG is more than a set of technical requirements. It’s a roadmap to creating digital experiences that are inclusive, legally compliant, and genuinely user-friendly. Whether you’re building new products or auditing existing ones, aligning with WCAG 2.1 Level AA is a powerful way to reduce risk and improve reach.

You don’t have to do it all at once. Focus on high-impact fixes, build accessibility into your workflows, and use the right tools to track your progress.

The post What are the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines – and how do you meet them? appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

But in the real world, users are far more diverse. They may have visual impairments, limited mobility, temporary injuries, low-bandwidth connections, aging-related challenges, or cognitive differences.

When digital experiences aren’t built to reflect this diversity, the result is frustration, exclusion, and, of course, lost opportunity.

Inclusive design is a methodology that challenges this status quo. It focuses on building products and services that are usable by the widest possible range of people, regardless of ability, context, or circumstance. 

Essentially, inclusive design is proactive, not reactive. It goes beyond basic accessibility by embracing human variety as a core design driver.

In this guide, we’ll explore what inclusive design really means, how it differs from accessibility, and how your organization can start putting it into practice, using proven principles, real-world examples, and actionable steps.

What is inclusive design?

Inclusive design is a design methodology that creates products and experiences that can be used by as many people as possible, regardless of circumstance, ability, background, or environment.

It recognizes that human diversity is the norm – not the exception – and that good design must accommodate that diversity

Rather than treating inclusion as an afterthought or a checkbox, inclusive design starts by identifying and addressing barriers that might exclude users. It’s about designing with a deep understanding of the full spectrum of human needs, from permanent disabilities to temporary limitations (like a broken arm or noisy environment) and situational constraints (like bright sunlight or using a device with one hand).

Importantly, inclusive design isn’t just for people with disabilities; it benefits everyone. For example, captions help people with hearing impairments, but they’re also useful for watching videos in public spaces. And voice input aids users with mobility impairments, but is now mainstream in mobile UX.

Why inclusive design matters

Inclusive design isn’t just a feel-good initiative; it’s a critical strategy for building better digital products. When done well, it leads to improved usability, stronger brand trust, and broader market reach.

It promotes equity and digital inclusion

At a societal level, inclusive design helps make sure that people aren’t left behind due to disability, age, language, or context. It’s a way to reduce digital inequality, uphold human rights, and create fairer experiences for everyone.

It expands your audience and customer base

Globally, over 1.3 billion people live with some form of disability (WHO, 2023). Add to that users with temporary limitations, older adults, or low-tech environments – and the number of people who benefit from inclusive design grows exponentially.

Designing for inclusivity doesn’t narrow your scope; it actually opens your product to more people, more use cases, and more markets.

It improves UX for everyone

When you reduce cognitive load, simplify interfaces, or clarify instructions, you’re not just helping edge-case users, you’re improving the experience for all. Inclusive products tend to be cleaner, more intuitive, and easier to use.

It supports compliance and reduces legal risk

Inclusive design principles often overlap with accessibility standards like WCAG, which are the foundation for laws like the European Accessibility Act and the ADA. Embedding inclusion into your design process can help you stay compliant and reduce risk.

Inclusive design vs. accessibility: What’s the difference?

Inclusive design and accessibility are closely related, but they’re not interchangeable.

• Accessibility refers to technical standards and legal requirements that make sure people with disabilities can access digital content and services. These are often codified in frameworks like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and are essential for compliance with regulations such as the ADA or the European Accessibility Act.
• Inclusive design, on the other hand, is a broader design philosophy. It starts earlier in the process and focuses on creating experiences that are usable by a wide range of people. It includes considerations like:
  • Language simplicity
  • Device and environmental constraints
  • Cultural context
  • Situational challenges (e.g., using one hand while holding a child)

They work best together. Accessibility is a baseline. Inclusive design takes things further, ensuring your digital products are flexible, welcoming, and effective for the widest possible audience.

Key principles of inclusive design

Inclusive design is guided by a set of core principles that help teams build products that serve the full range of human diversity. These principles can be used as both a design lens and a decision-making framework, no matter the size of your team or product.

Let’s take a look at the most widely recognized principles:

1. Recognize exclusion

Start by identifying who might be left out of your experience. Exclusion happens when we assume all users are the same, able-bodied, fluent in the product language, using modern hardware, or always online. Use empathy interviews, analytics, and testing to uncover pain points and edge cases.

2. Solve for one, extend to many

Designing for individuals with specific needs often benefits everyone. This principle flips the idea of “edge case” on its head by treating these cases as innovation drivers.

3. Learn from diversity

Inclusive design teams actively seek input from people of different backgrounds, abilities, languages, and contexts. Feedback from diverse users results in better-informed, more effective design decisions.

As a result, YouTube introduced a collapsible comment section and simplified the layout – changes that improved the experience for everyone, not just users with cognitive differences.

4. Provide equivalent experience

Users might interact with your product differently, but they should get the same core value.

5. Offer choice and control

Give users options to personalize or adapt their experience based on preference or need.

6. Prioritize clarity

Use simple language, consistent layouts, and familiar interaction patterns to reduce cognitive load.

Real-world examples of inclusive design in action

Inclusive design isn’t theoretical, it’s already improving experiences for millions of people across industries. Here are a few standout examples of how organizations have embraced inclusive design in the real world:

GOV.UK

The UK government’s digital services platform is a model of clarity and accessibility:

• Uses plain language that’s understandable by all reading levels
• Consistent, keyboard-navigable layouts
• Focus indicators and screen reader compatibility are built in
• Content designed for mobile and low-bandwidth users
  

This approach benefits not only users with disabilities but also non-native English speakers, older adults, and people with slow connections.

Microsoft’s inclusive product development

Microsoft’s inclusive design toolkit has shaped products like the Xbox Adaptive Controller, which was created with direct input from gamers with limited mobility.

• Flexible inputs and accessible packaging
• Usable by players with a range of physical abilities
• Became a UX benchmark and brand differentiator
  

Apple’s customizable UX

Apple integrates inclusive features into the core of its products:

• Dynamic text sizing and screen magnification
• VoiceOver screen reader is built into every device
• Background sounds and audio descriptions for better focus and comprehension

These tools are beneficial to users with disabilities, and also useful to people who simply prefer different interaction styles.

Airbnb’s inclusive onboarding

• Image descriptions for listings
• Language-localized support for a global user base
• Inclusive filters for finding accessible accommodation

How inclusive design improves user experience (UX)

Inclusive design doesn’t just make digital products more usable for people with disabilities – it leads to better experiences for all users.

Why? Because inclusive design principles focus on clarity, flexibility, and removing friction – goals that align perfectly with great UX.

Such as:

Reduced cognitive load

Simpler interfaces, consistent navigation, and clear language help users complete tasks faster and with less confusion. That’s especially important for users with cognitive or learning differences – but it benefits everyone, especially under pressure or on mobile.

Improved usability across devices and contexts

Designs that adapt to different screen sizes, input methods, and internet speeds are essential for people with limited access, and also crucial for global audiences, mobile-first users, and multitaskers.

Fewer errors, higher satisfaction

Clear error messages, flexible interactions (e.g., voice, keyboard, mouse), and intuitive layouts reduce user frustration and dropout rates, improving satisfaction and conversion.

Broader engagement

When products are inclusive by default, they reach more people – across abilities, languages, and cultures – leading to increased trust and market growth.

In short, inclusive design is great UX, scaled to real-world diversity.

Steps to implement inclusive design in websites and apps

Inclusive design isn’t a one-time project, it’s a mindset that should be woven into every stage of your product development lifecycle. Here’s how your organization can start building more inclusive digital experiences, step by step:

1. Audit your current experience for exclusion risks

Begin by identifying friction points in your existing website or app. Use both automated tools and manual testing to assess:

• Accessibility gaps (e.g., contrast, alt text, keyboard nav)
• Language complexity
• Navigation barriers
• Form usability

2. Involve diverse users in research and testing

Don’t rely on assumptions. Engage users with a range of abilities, backgrounds, languages, and devices in your UX research, user interviews, and us 

Their feedback will highlight problems – and reveal better design solutions you may not have considered.

3. Train your team on inclusive design principles

Help your designers, developers, and content creators understand what inclusive design looks like in practice. Build internal guidelines, share resources, and encourage team-wide ownership.

4. Bake inclusivity into your design system

Update your component library to include accessible UI patterns, alt text conventions, contrast rules, and responsive behavior. The more baked-in it is, the easier it is to scale.

5. Test early, test often

Use real devices and assistive technologies to evaluate inclusivity throughout the development process, not just at launch.

Common barriers to inclusive design (and how to overcome them)

Despite its clear benefits, inclusive design can feel challenging to implement, especially for small teams or organizations without in-house accessibility expertise. 

Here are some of the most common barriers and how to move past them:

“It’s too expensive or time-consuming.”

Reality: Inclusive design becomes costly when it’s an afterthought. But when it’s embedded from the start – during research, design, and development – it saves time and prevents expensive retrofits.

Solution: Adopt a “design for inclusion by default” mindset. Use inclusive templates and test early to avoid costly changes later.

“We don’t have the right team or tools.”

Reality: You don’t need to be an expert in usability to get started.

Solution: Use publicly available resources, tools like contrast checkers or screen reader emulators, and consult toolkits like Microsoft’s Inclusive Design Guide. When in doubt, start small and iterate.

“We’re afraid of getting it wrong.”

Reality: The only real mistake is not trying. Inclusive design is a process of learning, testing, and improving.

Solution: Get feedback from diverse users, document your decisions, and be transparent about your intent. Progress is better than perfection.

Best practices for creating inclusive content and interfaces

Inclusive design extends beyond layout and color contrast, it’s just as much about the language, structure, and interaction patterns you use. 

Here are some key practices to apply across your digital content and user interfaces:

Use plain, inclusive language

• Write for clarity – avoid jargon, idioms, and cultural references that may not translate
• Use gender-neutral language unless context requires otherwise
• Break up complex ideas into short, scannable sentences and paragraphs

Go for visual clarity and flexibility

• Maintain a minimum color contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for text and background
• Use scalable fonts and support text resizing without layout breaks
• Choose accessible typefaces (e.g., sans-serif, dyslexia-friendly fonts)

Design for different interaction styles

• Don’t rely on color alone to convey meaning (e.g., red = error)
• Make all controls accessible via keyboard and screen readers
• Use clear, descriptive link text (avoid “click here”)

Tools and resources for inclusive design

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling inclusive practices across your team, the right tools can help you move faster and smarter. Here’s a selection of practical resources to guide your journey:

Testing and simulation tools

• WAVE – Web accessibility evaluation tool for spotting common issues
• axe DevTools – Chrome extension for automated WCAG checks
• VoiceOver / NVDA – Screen readers for manual testing
• Color Oracle – Simulates color blindness for design reviews

Design and content resources

• WebAIM Contrast Checker – Test color combinations for readability
• Microsoft Inclusive Design Toolkit – Practical exercises and personas
• Google Fonts accessibility collection – Readable and scalable typefaces
• Plainlanguage.gov – Guide to clear, inclusive writing

Design that includes is design that works

Inclusive design isn’t just about checking accessibility boxes, it’s about building better, more usable products for everyone. By intentionally designing for a wider range of needs and contexts, your team can deliver experiences that are more effective, more empathetic, and more aligned with how people actually live and work.

It starts with a shift in mindset – and continues through research, collaboration, and iteration.

The post Inclusive design principles: How to build digital experiences that work for everyone appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

Digital accessibility has moved beyond an add-on; it’s a legal obligation for many businesses operating in Europe. 

The European Accessibility Act (EAA), which came into full force on June 28, 2025, introduces a unified set of accessibility requirements for websites, mobile apps, and other digital products and services.

The goal? To make sure that people with disabilities can access and use digital services as easily as everyone else. But for many businesses – especially those without in-house accessibility experts – the path to accessibility can feel unclear and overwhelming:

• Who needs to comply?
• What are the specific accessibility requirements?
• How do you assess your current level of compliance?
• And what practical steps can you take to meet the standard?

This guide provides those answers. Whether you’re in legal, product, design, or development, we’ll break down the EAA’s key requirements, show how they affect your digital properties, and offer a clear framework for achieving accessibility.

Who needs to comply with the European Accessibility Act?

The EAA applies to a wide range of businesses operating in or serving consumers within the European Union. 

But which businesses does it actually affect?

The short answer: most B2C digital service providers.

You may be required to comply if you:

• Operate an e-commerce platform or sell products online
• Offer banking or financial services
• Provide transport booking systems (bus, rail, air, etc.)
• Run a media platform, including video, audio, or streaming
• Publish eBooks or digital reading tools
• Deliver telecommunications services
• Offer public-facing websites or mobile apps
• Serve EU consumers, even if you’re based outside the EU

Some common myths about compliance

You might have had these thoughts in the past, but they’re (probably) not accurate:

• “We’re too small.” → Size is usually not a determining factor for accessibility compliance (with minor exceptions).
• “We’re not in the EU.” → If your service targets or reaches EU consumers, you’re likely in scope.
• “We only sell physical goods.” → Your digital interfaces (website, checkout, app) still need to comply – as do some physical goods!
  

Key requirements for EAA compliance

The EAA doesn’t just recommend better digital experiences – it mandates them. Businesses affected by the EAA must make sure that their digital products and services are accessible to people with disabilities, based on a consistent set of requirements across EU member states.

What must be accessible?

The EAA applies to a range of digital assets, including:

• Websites and web applications
• Mobile apps
• e-commerce platforms and online stores
• Self-service terminals (e.g., ticketing machines, ATMs)
• eBooks and reading software
• Audio-visual media players
• Digital customer service interfaces

Basically, any interface a user interacts with to access or manage a service is likely covered.

What does accessible mean under the EAA?

To comply with the EAA, digital services must follow technical accessibility standards, namely:

• Conformance with the following:
  • Alt text for non-text content
  • Keyboard navigability
  • Screen reader compatibility
  • Text resize options without loss of functionality
  • Sufficient color contrast
  • Consistent navigation patterns
  • Descriptive form labels and error messages
  • Captions and transcripts for video/audio content

How the EAA affects digital services and websites

The EAA applies to more than just how information is presented; it also affects how digital services are designed, built, and maintained. This includes user flows, interface components, media content, and even the technologies used to build your site or app.

If your business relies on digital channels to deliver services – whether it’s an online shop, customer portal, mobile app, or media platform – EAA compliance must be part of your strategy.

E-commerce platforms

Online stores must allow all users to:

• Browse, select, and purchase products
  
• Read product descriptions via screen readers
  
• Navigate the checkout using only a keyboard
  
• View accessible error messages for failed form inputs

Banking and financial services

Secure portals and apps must:

• Be navigable without a mouse
• Provide accessible 2FA interfaces and forms
• Offer downloadable documents (e.g., PDFs) in accessible formats
  

Streaming platforms and digital media

Audio-visual content must include:

• Captions for spoken content
• Transcripts for audio-only files
• Interfaces that work with assistive technology
  

Design systems and navigation patterns

All services must make sure there are:

• Consistent layouts across pages
• Clear focus indicators for interactive elements
• Semantic HTML and proper heading structure for screen readers

In short, digital accessibility affects nearly every layer of the user experience. So getting on the road to compliance means designing for inclusion from the start.

Steps to achieve EAA compliance

Meeting the EAA’s requirements doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul from day one. With a structured, phased approach, organizations can start making meaningful improvements right away – then scale toward heightened compliance.

Here’s a practical framework to guide your team.

1. Audit your digital assets

Start by assessing your website, apps, and digital products to understand where you stand. Combine:

• Automated tools like WAVE, axe DevTools, or Google Lighthouse
• Manual testing using screen readers (NVDA, VoiceOver)
• Keyboard-only navigation testing
• User testing, where possible, with real users who use assistive tech
  

2. Prioritize issues by impact and visibility

Identify the key areas of focus:

• High-traffic pages (home, product, checkout, login)
• Critical forms and user journeys
• Non-compliant media (videos, PDFs, interactive content)

NOTE: Make sure that you use WCAG 2.1 Level AA and the EAA annexes as your technical benchmark; it’s important.

3. Fix the most common accessibility barriers

Start with achievable fixes that make a big difference:

• Add alt text to all meaningful images
• Ensure form fields have labels and accessible error messaging
• Adjust color contrast and allow text resizing
• Fix heading structures for semantic HTML
• Add captions and transcripts to media content
  

4. Use iubenda’s Accessibility Widget for fast impact

The iubenda Accessibility Widget allows teams to make progress quickly:

• Adds essential accessibility enhancements
• Helps meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA criteria
• Offers a simple path to demonstrate proactive accessibility
  

5. Educate and enable your teams

Make sure that product, design, marketing, and dev teams:

• Understand the principles of accessible design
• Integrate accessibility checks into QA
• Know where to find standards and reference docs
  

6. Monitor, iterate, and maintain

Accessibility isn’t a one-off project. Make sure you build in:

• Periodic re-audits
• Feedback channels for users
• Governance processes for continuous compliance
  

The common challenges in meeting EAA standards

Many organizations recognize the need for accessibility, but run into roadblocks when they begin implementation. Understanding the most common challenges can help you avoid delays and keep your compliance roadmap on track.

1. Lack of internal expertise

Many teams – especially SMBs – lack in-house accessibility specialists. As a result, compliance can feel overly technical or overwhelming.

The solution: Start small. Use automated testing tools, free learning resources, and accessible design libraries. And when needed, consult external accessibility partners.

2. Legacy systems and outdated tech

Older websites or content management systems may not support semantic HTML, ARIA roles, or screen reader compatibility.

The solution: Prioritize critical pages and work accessibility into scheduled redesigns or updates. Tools like iubenda’s Accessibility Widget can help you start working towards an accessible path.

3. Fragmented responsibility

Accessibility often falls between teams – design, development, marketing, and legal – without a clear owner.

The solution: Assign ownership. Establish an internal lead or working group and include accessibility in your QA and content processes.

4. Misunderstanding legal obligations

Some teams assume the EAA doesn’t apply to them – or they underestimate what’s required to meet WCAG standards.

The solution: Use self-assessment checklists, review the EAA’s scope, and consult legal if needed. Remember: if you serve EU consumers, compliance is likely required.

By addressing these challenges early, your organization can make measurable progress – without getting stuck in the weeds.

Tools and resources for compliance

Whether you’re just starting your accessibility journey or looking to streamline ongoing improvements, the right tools can make all the difference. 

Here’s a selection of reliable resources to help your team achieve and maintain EAA compliance.

Accessibility testing tools

Start with automated scans to catch the most common accessibility issues:

• WAVE – Highlights contrast errors, missing alt text, and semantic structure flaws
• axe DevTools – Chrome extension for developers with actionable WCAG guidance
• Google Lighthouse – Built into Chrome DevTools, includes accessibility scoring
  

Manual testing support

Automated tools only catch 30–40% of issues. Pair them with:

• Screen readers: NVDA (Windows), VoiceOver (Mac)
• Keyboard navigation tests: Use Tab, Shift+Tab, and Enter to navigate your site
• Zoom/resizing tests: Make sure layout and content remain usable at 200% scale

Design and content resources

• Contrast checkers (e.g. WebAIM, Stark)
• Inclusive design principles from W3C and open design systems
• Alt text and media accessibility guides
  

iubenda’s Accessibility Widget

For businesses seeking an immediate step toward accessibility, iubenda’s Accessibility Widget:

• Adds key WCAG 2.1 Level AA enhancements
• Requires no redesign or replatforming
• Supports your ongoing accessibility strategy

Make accessibility a priority

Digital accessibility is no longer optional. With the European Accessibility Act’s enforcement deadline having passed on June 28, 2025, businesses across Europe – and beyond – must make sure their websites, apps, and digital services are accessible to all users.

The good news? You don’t need to do everything at once.

By understanding your legal obligations, identifying accessibility gaps, and making continuous improvements using WCAG 2.1 Level AA as your guide, your organization can reduce risk, expand its audience, and deliver a better digital experience for everyone.

Start now with a simple, scalable solution

The iubenda Accessibility Widget makes it easy to begin addressing requirements right away, without the need for a full rebuild.

Whether you’re in product, compliance, UX, or leadership, taking the first step today can save time, cost, and complexity tomorrow.

The post A complete guide to EAA compliance for digital services appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

In most cases, B2B companies can breathe easy. 

If you run a purely B2B company, the chances are that the EAA does not really apply to your operations.

However, there are key exceptions worth knowing so you don’t get caught out.

In this article, we’ll clarify exactly when B2B companies need to comply with the EAA, walk through common scenarios, and offer some practical steps to reduce risk and improve accessibility where it counts.

Need to make your website more accessible? Learn how iubenda can help.

The European Accessibility Act: Focused on consumer-facing services

The goal of the EAA (Directive 2019/882) is to make sure that any products and services across the EU are accessible to people with disabilities. 

It introduces accessibility requirements for:

• E-commerce websites: Platforms where users can browse and buy goods or services online.
• Banking and financial services: Apps and websites that let consumers manage their finances or make transactions.
• Transport services: Digital booking tools for trains, buses, taxis, and other transport modes.
• E-books and digital reading platforms: Services that offer downloadable or streamable reading materials.
• Communication services like messaging or VoIP: Tools that help users communicate digitally, including video calls and online chats.

Under the law, consumers are defined as “any natural person who purchases the relevant product or is a recipient of the relevant service for purposes which are outside his trade, business, craft or profession” as per Directive 2019/882, Article 2.

This definition is key because it clearly indicates that the law targets B2C operations, not B2B interactions between companies. 

But that doesn’t mean you can stop reading if you run a B2B business. 

When B2B businesses fall outside the EAA’s scope

If your company sells exclusively to other businesses – and doesn’t engage with individual consumers – your digital properties are generally outside the scope of the EAA.

Think of tools like:

• Internal sales systems: Used only by your team to manage deals with other companies, not consumers.
• Password-protected client dashboards: Secure, login-only areas built for business customers.
• Procurement tools or vendor portals: Systems designed solely for managing supplier relationships and purchasing workflows.
• Closed B2B SaaS platforms: Software products that require account access and don’t have a public-facing component.
• Intranets or internal employee tools: Platforms only used by employees, like HR systems or internal knowledge bases.

Essentially, the rule of thumb is that as long as your interfaces are exclusively used by people acting within their trade or profession, the EAA doesn’t apply.

The operative word here is ‘exclusively’. 

So, how can you be sure you’re truly out of scope?

When B2B companies need to comply

Now here’s where it gets a little trickier. If your company offers any public-facing elements that can be used by individual consumers, they are within the EAA’s scope.

Common examples include things like:

• Marketing websites with pricing or product pages: These public pages are often visited by individual consumers researching products or services.
• Public contact or support forms: Open communication channels allow anyone to get in touch – not just businesses.
• Blogs or educational content aimed at individual users: If content is accessible to consumers and meant to inform or attract them, it’s in scope.
• Free tools or demo sign-ups without business verification: If individuals can use or trial your service without identifying as a business, accessibility requirements apply.

Even if your core offering is purely B2B, if someone can stumble across your site and interact with it as an individual, that interaction needs to meet accessibility requirements.

Mixed B2B/B2C business models: Compliance by component

Many companies operate in a hybrid model – offering B2B software or products but maintaining consumer-facing digital assets.

In these cases, compliance needs to be assessed on a section-by-section basis.

Here are some examples where this might apply: 

Asset	Is compliance required?
B2C user portal
Internal CRM
Marketing website with pricing
Sales documentation download portal (public)
Support intranet

It’s important to remember that the 2019/882 directive does not contain an explicit list of examples being in or out of scope. 

Instead, the determination hinges on whether or not the recipient qualifies as a “consumer” based on the legal definition we mentioned earlier. 

Because of this, it’s always a good idea to conduct an accessibility audit that clearly separates consumer-facing areas from internal B2B tools – so you can make sure you’re never caught off guard.

Why accessibility still matters for B2B companies

Even if your risk of legal exposure under the European Accessibility Act as a B2B company is low, accessibility is still a smart business move – no matter what kind of business you run. 

It gives you:

• Better UX for all users: Accessibility best practices make digital experiences clearer and easier for everyone – not just people with disabilities. 
• SEO and performance gains: Search engines reward accessible websites with better indexing and faster load times – so you’re more discoverable, and can offer a better experience. 
• Stronger reputation: Demonstrating inclusion supports employer branding and helps to build customer trust.
• Procurement advantage: Accessibility is increasingly a requirement in vendor selection for large enterprises.

What to do next: Steps for B2B companies

Before diving into any accessibility updates, it’s worth identifying which parts of your digital presence are actually in scope. 

While many B2B platforms are exempt, anything that can be accessed by an individual consumer needs to meet accessibility standards, such as your homepage, contact form, or pricing page.

Here’s a simple approach to get started:

• Step 1: Audit your digital presence. Look for any publicly available pages, tools, or forms that consumers might have access to.
• Step 2: Fix what’s public. Apply WCAG 2.1 standards to components like landing pages, blog posts, and contact forms.
• Step 3: Use accessibility tools wisely. Tools like iubenda’s Accessibility Widget can help with overlays and UI tweaks, but back-end fixes are still essential.
• Step 4: Publish an accessibility statement. Clarify your approach, even if only part of your site needs to comply – it shows transparency and commitment.

Getting ahead of the curve

Even if you’re not strictly required to comply with the EAA, taking proactive steps toward accessibility is good business sense. It improves usability, supports your brand’s reputation, and may even help you win contracts.

In short, it’s about making sure you’re as ready as you can possibly be. 

But remember, tools like iubenda’s Accessibility Widget are just the start. You can’t guarantee full accessibility with just one tool alone, so it’s important to make sure you’re also doing manual checks and utilizing other accessibility tools.  

More and more industries now expect a baseline level of digital accessibility – and B2B is no exception. Forward-thinking B2B companies that embed inclusive design into their workflows will be better placed to compete, adapt, and grow.

And remember, an accessible site is a user-friendly site. 

FAQs on EAA and B2B

1. Does the EAA apply to B2B-only companies?

The EAA specifically targets consumer-facing interactions. B2B-only companies are therefore out of scope.

2. What if I have a mixed audience?

You’ll need to assess each digital asset. Consumer-facing elements must comply, even if the product is B2B.

3. Are free tools or demos considered consumer-facing?

Yes – if individuals can access them without acting on behalf of a business, they fall under the EAA.

4. Is compliance mandatory for my blog?

If your blog is publicly accessible and aimed at individual users (even educational), it’s likely in scope.

5. Do accessibility overlays make me compliant?

Not on their own. Overlays improve usability, but full compliance requires fixing underlying code-level issues.

6. Are accessibility statements required for B2B companies?

Only for the consumer-facing elements. But publishing one is recommended for transparency.

7. What if I only sell to enterprises but have a public website?

The public website still needs to meet accessibility requirements, regardless of who your customers are.

8. What happens if I don’t comply?

Each EU Member State defines its own enforcement measures. This can include corrective actions, sanctions, or other consequences – depending on how the EAA has been implemented at the national level.

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But while some businesses are starting to take note of the EAA, many aren’t aware of the consequences of non-compliance, which can be severe. 

In this blog post, we’ll demystify the European Accessibility Act fines, so you have a thorough understanding of the stakes – and what steps you can take to help steer clear of the penalties.  

What happens if you don’t comply with the European Accessibility Act?

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a directive, not a regulation – this distinction is important. Both are binding legislative acts under EU law, but they function differently:

• A regulation (like GDPR) has a direct effect. It automatically becomes law in all EU Member States without needing to be implemented through national legislation.
• A directive, like the EAA, must be transposed into national law by each Member State. This means countries have some flexibility in how they implement it – particularly in areas like enforcement and penalties.

Who enforces the EAA?

Each Member State is required to designate one or more authorities responsible for monitoring and enforcing the EAA. These could be existing consumer protection agencies, or entirely new regulatory bodies.

Enforcement mechanisms might include audits and inspections, ongoing monitoring of digital platforms, responding to user complaints, and collaboration with EU-wide networks to share best practices. Some authorities may also carry out proactive checks, especially in high-risk sectors like finance and e-commerce.

How Member States determine fines and penalties

One of the EAA’s key features is that it sets the framework but leaves the application to individual Member States. This means that each country must create its own laws, including specific enforcement procedures and fine structures.

Although European Accessibility Act fines and penalty systems will vary, most Member States are expected to assess factors like the severity and duration of the violation, how cooperative the business is with regulators, how many users were affected, and whether there’s a history of previous violations.

Below are some examples of European Accessibility Act fines and penalties. Please note that these are subject to change as each country finalizes its implementation:

Austria

• Fines: Up to €200,000
• Additional Penalties: Repeated violations can lead to higher fines and possible suspension of services.​

Belgium

• Fines: €1,000 to €50,000
• Additional Penalties: Continuous non-compliance may lead to suspension of business operations.

Denmark

• Fines: €10,000 for initial non-compliance
• Additional Penalties: Fines increase with repeated offenses.

France

• Fines: €5,000 to €250,000
• Additional Penalties: €25,000 for any additional, related offenses as well as potential public exposure of non-compliant businesses.​

Germany

• Fines: Up to €500,000
• Additional Penalties: Businesses may need to take corrective action and face potential suspension of services.

Ireland

• Fines: €5,000 to €60,000
• Additional Penalties: Potential imprisonment for directors, managers, administration staff and other officers for up to 6 months or 18 months once indicted.

Italy

• Fines: €40,000 or 5% of annual turnover
• Additional Penalties: Potential suspension of services. 

Netherlands

• Fines: Up to €250,000
• Additional Penalties: Potential suspension of services.

Spain

• Fines: €30,000 to €600,000
• Additional Penalties: Potential suspension of services.

Sweden

• Fines: Up to €200,000.​
• Additional Penalties: Businesses will have to take corrective action and face mandatory accessibility audits to ensure compliance. 

Examples of accessibility violations and anticipated enforcement approaches

To help you better understand what might trigger enforcement action, here are a few hypothetical but plausible scenarios:

• An e-commerce website fails to provide alt text for product images, making it unusable for visually impaired users.
• A banking app is not navigable by keyboard alone, violating accessibility principles for users with motor disabilities.
• A customer support chatbot doesn’t offer an accessible fallback option like a human agent, creating a barrier for those who use assistive technologies.
• A transport-booking website provides a CAPTCHA with no accessible alternative, making it difficult for screen reader users to complete a purchase.
• A mobile app used for public services doesn’t have strong contrast and doesn’t support text resizing, excluding users with low vision.
• A video tutorial platform doesn’t provide captions or transcripts, effectively shutting out users who are hearing impaired.
• A travel company’s booking platform uses complicated, multi-step forms with no progress indicators or error messages compatible with screen readers.

In these cases, authorities could issue warnings, fines, require remedial action, or all three. The severity of the enforcement could be linked to how essential the service is and how much harm the inaccessibility causes.

Legal and financial consequences of non-compliance

Beyond the potential European Accessibility Act fines, there are broader risks to consider. 

If you’re sued for non-compliance, legal fees can mount up quickly. You might also lose contracts, particularly with government or enterprise clients that require accessibility compliance. 

What’s more, inaccessible platforms can drive customers away. Over 100 million people in the EU alone live with disability, which means your business could be missing out on a large customer base by not being accessible. 

There’s also the risk of class-action lawsuits or coordinated complaints from consumer rights organizations. Non-compliance can lead to operational setbacks, delays in product launches, and resource-draining remediation efforts that could have been avoided through early planning.

There’s no denying that the consequences of non-compliance can be severe – not just financially, but legally and reputationally as well. This means it’s all the more important to prioritize accessibility efforts now so you can avoid any unfortunate consequences once the EAA fully comes into force. 

How to avoid European Accessibility Act fines and get closer to compliance

To ensure greater compliance with the EAA, it helps to be familiar with the accessibility principles outlined by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These guidelines set the WCAG 2.1 Level AA standard.

The WCAG is based on four principles, commonly referred to as the POUR principles:

• Perceivable: Users must be able to perceive the content presented. This includes using text alternatives for non-text content, ensuring sufficient contrast, and providing captions for audio and video.
• Operable: Interfaces and navigation must be operable by all users, including those who rely on keyboards or assistive devices. Avoid content that flashes excessively, and ensure all interactive elements are usable without a mouse.
• Understandable: Content must be presented in a clear and predictable way. This includes using legible fonts, straightforward language, and consistent navigation across pages.
• Robust: Content must be compatible with a variety of current and future user agents, including assistive technologies. This means using clean, semantic HTML and following web standards for long-term compatibility.

If your business’s digital services align with these principles, you’ll increase your chances of improving your website’s accessibility and usability – and reduce the risk of receiving European Accessibility Act fines.  

Steps to help make your website and services more accessible 

Whether you’re a startup or a multinational, these practical steps can help you get closer to aligning with the EAA:

• Start with an accessibility audit. This can help you find the areas where you’re not compliant. To carry out an audit, you can use tools to carry out automated scans, as well as manual user testing. This combined approach will help you uncover both obvious and more nuanced accessibility issues – such as code-level problems that affect screen readers or usability issues that automated tools can’t detect.
• Fix high-impact issues first. In general, it’s important to focus on issues that directly affect user access to your services. For example, missing alt text, poor contrast, and inaccessible navigation – these can often be fixed quickly. Develop a roadmap for more complex fixes and make sure accessibility improvements are included in your product backlog.
• Offer multiple communication channels for users. Ensure that users can access customer support in accessible formats.
• Use semantic HTML. This helps screen readers interpret content correctly.
• Implement ARIA landmarks and roles. These can significantly improve navigation for assistive technology users.
• Ensure all forms have proper labels and instructions. This allows users with assistive tech to complete them without barriers.
• Provide text alternatives for multimedia content. This can include captions for videos, transcripts for podcasts, and audio descriptions where appropriate.
• Check color contrast and font across all pages. Make sure all text is legible in different conditions.
• Ensure your navigation is consistent and intuitive. Menus should be logically ordered and links clearly described.
• Promote keyboard accessibility. Users should be able to navigate your entire website using only their keyboard.
• Set up a regular review process. Accessibility isn’t one-and-done – it’s a continuous commitment. Build in quarterly or biannual reviews to assess progress, tackle regressions, and stay ahead of legal updates.
• Document everything. This includes audit results, internal discussions, timelines for fixes, and user feedback. Keeping detailed records helps your team stay accountable and serves as valuable proof of your efforts if authorities investigate.
• Educate your team. Make sure everyone on your team – from designers and developers to product managers and marketers – understands accessibility principles. Host regular training sessions and make accessibility a shared responsibility across departments.

Embedding accessibility into your strategy and daily workflows by using the right tools means you can reduce the risk of violations and provide a more inclusive experience for everyone.

Don’t underestimate the risks of non-compliance

The European Accessibility Act is an opportunity to make your digital experiences more inclusive, resilient, and user-friendly. 

But make no mistake: the risks of non-compliance are real. With enforcement deadlines approaching and national implementations underway, businesses must act now to prepare.

The good news is that you don’t have to go it alone. When used in combination with manual user testing and some of the other steps outlined in this blog, our Accessibility Widget makes it easier to improve your website’s accessibility and usability in terms of EAA standards. 

The post European Accessibility Act fines: What you need to know appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

More and more services are shifting online, and as a result, businesses are expected to make their digital spaces inclusive for everyone, including people with disabilities. 

However, while many teams understand the need for accessibility, implementing it can feel overwhelming. 

What does a truly accessible website look like in practice?

Which features matter most? 

And how can your team replicate them effectively?

Don’t worry – we’re giving you the answers through concrete, real-world examples of accessibility done well. We’ll highlight websites that demonstrate key accessibility principles, from keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility to proper alt text, captions, and readable typography. 

Whether you’re a designer, developer, marketer, or product lead, this guide will help you understand what great accessibility looks like – and how to bring it to your own site.

What is website accessibility?

Website accessibility is the practice of designing and developing digital content so it can be used and understood by everyone, including people with permanent, temporary, or situational disabilities. 

This includes users who rely on screen readers, navigate with keyboard-only input, or need adjustable text sizes, color contrast, or transcripts for audio content.

Accessible websites make sure that no user is excluded, and support users in low-bandwidth environments, older adults, and those using non-standard devices.

The primary framework used to define and evaluate accessibility is the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These internationally recognized standards are built around four key principles: content must be Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR).

Accessible websites aren’t just more inclusive – they’re also easier to navigate, more SEO-friendly, and often more usable for everyone. That’s why accessibility is now considered a cornerstone of good digital experience design.

Why website accessibility matters

Accessibility matters because the web is a critical part of everyday life – and it should be usable by everyone. 

Excluding users with disabilities from digital services can create real-world barriers to banking, healthcare, education, and employment.

For many people with disabilities, the internet offers independence and access, but only if digital experiences are built to be inclusive. Whether it’s a lack of alt text, unreadable font sizes, or navigation that doesn’t work with a keyboard, even oversights that seem minor can have a significant impact.

Beyond the human case, accessibility also brings clear business benefits. Inclusive websites offer a better user experience, reduce bounce rates, and improve SEO performance. Accessible code and content often align with search engine best practices, making your site easier to find and navigate.

And then there’s compliance: regulatory frameworks like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the European Accessibility Act (EAA) impose legal obligations – and potential penalties – for inaccessible digital platforms. It’s important to remember that accessibility isn’t a niche concern. It’s a legal, ethical, and strategic priority for any business building digital products today.

The key principles of an accessible website

Truly accessible websites follow well-established principles that support users with a wide range of needs. Let’s take a look at some of the most critical accessibility features, with practical notes on implementation (of course).

1. Keyboard navigation support

Not all users rely on a mouse – some navigate using a keyboard, switch device, or assistive tech. Ensure that all interactive elements (buttons, forms, links) can be accessed via the Tab key and that focus indicators are clearly visible.

2. Alternative text for images

Alt text provides screen reader users with image descriptions. It’s essential for conveying information visually and supporting users with vision loss.

3. Captions and transcripts for multimedia

Videos should have closed captions for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, and transcripts should be available for audio content.

4. Color contrast and readable text

Make sure foreground and background colors have sufficient contrast – aim for a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for body text.

5. Resizable text and adjustable fonts

Text should scale without breaking the layout. Make sure you’re supporting user-adjustable fonts or offer toggle settings to improve readability.

6. Screen reader compatibility

Use semantic HTML, proper ARIA labels, and structured heading hierarchies so screen readers can interpret the content logically.

7. Accessible forms and error messages

Label fields properly, provide clear instructions, and surface error messages that are both visible and announced via assistive tech.

8. Descriptive links and semantic navigation

Avoid vague labels like “click here.” Use meaningful, descriptive link text that explains the action or destination.

Real-world examples of accessible websites

Understanding accessibility in theory is one thing, but seeing it in action is another. Here are five standout examples of accessible websites, each demonstrating best practices you can adapt to your own projects.

1. GOV.UK

The UK government’s digital services site is a global benchmark for clarity, simplicity, and accessibility.

Here are the highlights:

• Fully keyboard navigable with visible focus states
• Clear, hierarchical heading structure
• Descriptive link text and logical page flow
• No reliance on color to convey meaning

2. Apple.com

Everyone loves the Apple brand – but the Apple site demonstrates how sleek design and accessibility can coexist.

Highlights:

• Semantic HTML with screen reader-friendly ARIA labels
• High color contrast and readable type across all devices
• Accessible product tours with keyboard navigation

3. BBC.co.uk

Whatever your thoughts are on the BBC, it’s long been committed to digital inclusion, especially in multimedia content.

Highlights:

• Closed captions and audio descriptions for video content
• High-contrast text with adjustable font sizes
• Responsive design for screen magnification

4. The New York Times

The NY Times combines rich media with thoughtful accessibility – in short, it’s hit the nail on the head.

Highlights:

• Text versions of multimedia features
• Structured headlines and skip links for faster screen reader navigation
• Subtle animations that don’t interfere with usability

5. Target.com

Target became a poster child for accessibility after settling a landmark ADA lawsuit – and responded with real change.

Highlights:

• Improved alt text across product imagery
• Logical tab ordering and clearly labeled forms
• Support for screen readers and keyboard navigation

How to test and improve your own website accessibility

Knowing what to fix is the first step, but it can feel like the biggest block. 

Here’s how to identify accessibility gaps on your website and start addressing them – without needing to be an expert.

1. Run an automated accessibility scan

You can start with tools like:

• WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool)
• axe DevTools (browser extension)
• Google Lighthouse (built into Chrome DevTools)

These tools highlight common issues like missing alt text, poor contrast, or form labeling errors.

2. Perform basic manual testing

Automated scans catch a lot, but not everything. Supplement with simple manual checks:

• Keyboard-only navigation: Can you tab through all elements? Are focus indicators visible?
• Screen reader testing: Use free tools like NVDA (Windows) or VoiceOver (Mac) to test reading order, heading structure, and ARIA labels.
• Zoom in and adjust text size: Does the layout stay usable when text is enlarged?
  

3. Prioritize critical fixes

Focus on user-impacting areas first: navigation, forms, interactive elements, and key content pages. Remember, you should aim to resolve blockers before refining enhancements.

4. Make accessibility part of your workflow

Build accessibility checks into your design, content, and dev processes. Create reusable components, document standards, and test early and often.

Legal requirements and WCAG compliance

Accessibility isn’t just a best practice; it’s a legal requirement in many parts of the world. Regulatory frameworks are evolving quickly, and failure to comply can result in lawsuits, fines, or reputational damage.

In the United States: ADA

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), websites are increasingly considered “places of public accommodation.” This means businesses – especially in retail, hospitality, and services – must make sure that their websites are accessible. Numerous high-profile lawsuits (e.g., against Domino’s, Target) have set strong legal precedents.

In the European Union: EAA

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) requires many B2C companies to make their digital products and services accessible. This includes e-commerce sites, mobile apps, banking platforms, and more.

WCAG: The global standard

Most laws reference the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) – specifically Level AA – as the benchmark for compliance. These guidelines provide a clear roadmap for improving accessibility across content, navigation, media, and interaction.

NOTE: Making your site WCAG-compliant minimizes legal risk and strengthens your commitment to inclusive, user-centered design.

Conclusion: Bring accessibility from intention to implementation

Website accessibility isn’t only a checklist; it’s a commitment to creating digital spaces that work for everyone. As the examples above show, inclusive design can be elegant, user-friendly, and scalable, no matter your industry or audience.

By following accessibility principles, learning from real-world models, and using the right testing tools, your team can go beyond compliance and deliver better experiences for all. 

You might want to improve an existing site or build something new – whatever you’re starting from, accessibility is a wise investment in usability, trust, and long-term success.

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However, many businesses still struggle with selecting the right tools, using them effectively, or even using them at all. 

This creates a gap that can increase risks, lead to missed opportunities, and even open you up to legal exposure. 

In this guide, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know. From what web accessibility tools are, to how they support compliance with standards like WCAG, ADA, and the EAA. 

We’ll also offer practical tips and advice on implementing these tools efficiently into your workflows. 

What are web accessibility tools?

Let’s get started with the basics.

Web accessibility tools are technologies and software that help to evaluate, optimize, and monitor websites to make them more usable. This is especially true for people with disabilities or impairments. 

These tools help assist developers, designers, and compliance officers in spotting and fixing issues such as poor keyboard navigation, missing alternative text, or low color contrast. 

They contribute to aligning websites with standards like WCAG 2.1 and help businesses meet obligations under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the European Accessibility Act (EAA). 

Key features to look for in accessibility tools

Choosing the right accessibility tool is all about making sure your website is truly usable for all users.

Because an accessible site is good for everyone, not just those with disabilities. 

A good tool will not only help you detect issues but also fit naturally into your development workflow, support different types of accessibility testing, and guide you toward making meaningful improvements to your site. 

When evaluating your options, it’s a good idea to prioritize tools that offer:

• Automated and manual testing capabilities: Automated scans can help you catch common issues quickly, while manual testing captures more complex usability barriers. 
• Screen reader simulation options: Helps you experience your website the way visually impaired users would. 
• Keyboard navigation support checking: Allows users who rely on a keyboard alone to move through your site easily. 
• Color contrast analysis: Verifies that text and visual elements meet the minimum contrast ratios for readability. 
• Actionable, easy-to-understand reports: Reports that provide clear guidance on whatever issues are found and how to fix them, which reduces any guesswork. 
• Compliance checking: Helps to align your site with the major accessibility standards and legal frameworks such as WCAG 2.1, ADA, and EAA. 
• Integration with development workflows: Allows accessibility testing to be a part of your build and deployment processes automatically. 

Best web accessibility tools for testing and compliance

There’s no one-size-fits-all tool that will work for everyone. 

Different types of accessibility tools serve different needs; more often than not, a combination of tools works best. 

Automated web accessibility testing tools

Automated testing tools are great for catching many common accessibility issues quickly, consistently, and easily. 

• axe DevTools: A popular browser extension that finds accessibility issues right inside your development environment. 
• WAVE Evaluation Tool: A free, easy-to-use browser extension that highlights accessibility errors visually on your webpage. 
• Accessibility Insights: A Microsoft tool that offers both fast automated checks and guided manual assessments. 

Manual web accessibility evaluation tools

Manual testing complements automation by identifying more complex or subjective issues, like confusing navigation or poor focus order. 

• Screen reader testing: Use tools like NVDA or VoiceOver to experience your site from a non-visual perspective and manually spot gaps.
• Manual review of semantic structure: Check headings, landmarks, ARIA roles, and logical tab order directly in the HTML or using browser dev tools.
• Manual keyboard testing: Navigate your site using only the Tab, Enter, and Arrow keys to check keyboard accessibility. 

Color contrast checkers

Color contrast tools help make sure your text and visual elements are readable by users with low vision or color blindness.

• WebAIM Color Contrast Checker: Quickly test if your color combinations meet WCAG’s recommended contrast ratios. 
• Contrast Grid by EightShapes: Compare multiple text and background color combinations in one view to find the most accessible options. 

Screen readers and simulators

Testing with real screen readers helps you to validate how accessible your site’s structure and content really are. 

• JAWS: One of the most widely used screen readers globally, often considered to be the industry standard. 
• NVDA: A free and powerful screen reader for Windows that lets you experience your website as a visually impaired user would. 
• VoiceOver: Apple’s built-in screen reader, perfect for testing how your site performs on MacOS and iOS devices. 

Keyboard navigation testing tools

Since many users depend on keyboards instead of mice, good keyboard navigation is important. 

• axe DevTools’ keyboard focus tests: Identify missing focus indicators or keyboard traps that can disrupt navigation.
• Manual testing with tab/shift-tab navigation: Manually simulate a complete user journey using only keyboard controls.

How to use web accessibility tools effectively

Accessibility should always be baked into your processes, not treated as an afterthought. 

Tools are at their most powerful when they’re used proactively during the development stage. Here are a few ways you can maximize their impact and make your site as accessible as possible: 

• Integrate automated checks into CI/CD pipelines: Catch issues early by running accessibility tests automatically during the build and deployment stages.
• Schedule regular manual audits: Manually test critical workflows and pages at key stages of development. 
• Prioritize fixes based on impact: Focus first on issues that affect usability the most, like keyboard traps or unreadable text. 
• Train your team on accessibility-first principles: Make sure your designers and developers know how to avoid introducing accessibility barriers right from the start. 

Web accessibility tools FAQs

The post Which web accessibility tools do you really need? A practical guide appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

From unreadable text to uncaptioned videos, many websites and digital products unintentionally exclude users with disabilities. 

Although not intended, these issues have serious repercussions. They can frustrate, alienate, or completely block access for people who rely on assistive technologies, or have specific cognitive, visual, auditory, or motor needs.

The problem is, for teams without dedicated accessibility specialists, identifying and resolving these issues can feel overwhelming. The guidelines are extensive, the tools varied, and the consequences – ranging from user drop-off to legal risk – can be serious.

That’s why it’s critical to understand not only what accessibility issues are, but also how to find and fix them. 

Whether you’re a web developer, UX designer, content strategist, or product manager, this guide will walk you through the most common accessibility problems and provide actionable strategies to solve them.

Addressing these barriers is more than just compliance: it’s a commitment to digital equity and better user experiences for everyone.

But, what are accessibility issues?

Accessibility issues refer to digital design and development problems that make websites, applications, or content difficult – or even impossible – for people living with disabilities to use. These barriers affect how users perceive, navigate, and interact with digital products, often excluding individuals who rely on assistive tools or alternative input methods.

Let’s take a look at some examples: 

A user with vision loss may not be able to understand content without alternative text on images. A person with motor disabilities may be unable to complete a form that isn’t keyboard-navigable. And someone with hearing loss may miss essential information in a video that lacks captions or transcripts.

Accessibility issues are typically defined and assessed according to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), a global standard that outlines success criteria across four key principles: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust (POUR). These principles help make sure that digital content works for the widest possible range of users.

Importantly, accessibility isn’t just about screen readers or visual impairments – it covers a wide spectrum of physical, sensory, and cognitive needs. That includes neurodivergent users, aging populations, and users in temporary situations (like navigating with one hand or reading in bright sunlight).

Why fixing accessibility issues matters

Accessibility issues don’t just affect code: they affect people. 

Every barrier in your digital product can result in a user being unable to access vital information or complete a task. For the more than 1 billion people worldwide who live with some form of disability, these issues represent a significant obstacle to independence and inclusion, and, ultimately, opportunity.

But accessibility issues impact businesses, too. Exclusionary design leads to lost customers, reputational damage, and increased legal risk. In the U.S., lawsuits under the ADA continue to rise. In the EU, the European Accessibility Act is set to make digital accessibility a legal requirement for many B2C businesses in 2025.

The good news is, many accessibility best practices – like semantic HTML, descriptive alt text, and structured content – are also SEO best practices. So, fixing accessibility issues can actually improve your site’s search visibility and organic reach.

Think of it this way: accessibility isn’t just a legal or ethical checkbox. It’s a pathway to a better user experience, wider audience engagement, and long-term digital success.

Common accessibility issues in websites and digital content

Accessibility issues can appear in many forms – some are visual, others structural or interactive. Understanding the most common ones is key to building inclusive digital experiences. 

Let’s explore the top barriers users face and how they can be addressed.

Issue	Details	Solution
Lack of alt text	Alt text is fundamental for users who rely on screen readers to interpret visual content. Without it, blind or low-vision users may miss important information, especially if the image is getting across a call to action or critical context.	Always add concise, descriptive alt text to informative images. Just remember, failing to comply can lead to expensive lawsuits.
Poor color contrast	Low contrast between text and background makes it hard to read, especially for users with color vision deficiencies or older adults.	Use tools like the WAVE Accessibility Tool or axe DevTools to test color contrast ratios. Aim for a minimum ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text.
Inaccessible forms and input fields	Forms are a common point of failure for accessibility. Issues include missing or improperly associated labels, unclear error messages, and broken tabbing behavior.	Always use label tags correctly, make sure there’s a logical tab order, and provide clear, text-based error messages that are programmatically linked to input fields.
Missing or incorrect header structure	Screen readers rely on heading hierarchies (like <h1> to <h6>) to navigate pages. If headings are skipped or misused (e.g., using <div>s styled like headers), users lose context.	Use headings to reflect the logical structure of content. Only one <h1> per page, followed by nested subheadings in order (e.g., <h2>, <h3>).
Keyboard navigation issues	Many users can’t use a mouse and rely on keyboard navigation (e.g., the Tab key) to move through content. Common issues include missing focus indicators or getting “stuck” in navigation traps.	Make sure all interactive elements (links, buttons, inputs) are accessible via keyboard and that visible focus styles are preserved.
Videos with transcripts or captions	Deaf or hard-of-hearing users can’t access video content without captions. Without transcripts, users also lose the ability to scan or reference audio-based content.	Provide accurate closed captions for all spoken content and transcripts for audio or multimedia assets.
Inconsistent or confusing navigation	Navigation that’s inconsistent across pages – or overloaded with poorly grouped content – can disorient users, especially those with cognitive or learning disabilities.	Use consistent layouts, clear menu structures, and predictable interactive behaviors across all screens and breakpoints.
Auto-playing media without controls	Media that auto-plays with sound can disrupt screen reader users and trigger sensory overload, especially for neurodivergent individuals or users with ADHD.	Avoid auto-play where possible. But if used, make sure users have accessible options to pause, stop, or mute the media immediately.

How accessibility issues affect people with disabilities

Behind every accessibility issue is a person being excluded. 

These aren’t abstract usability flaws – they’re barriers that can deny access to essential services, opportunities, and participation in digital life.

Imagine a blind user relying on a screen reader to shop online. If product images lack meaningful alt text, or navigation menus don’t follow a logical heading structure, it becomes nearly impossible to complete a purchase independently.

A deaf user visiting a government site to access public services may miss critical information if videos lack captions or if no transcripts are available for audio content.

For someone with ADHD or a cognitive disability, auto-playing media, cluttered layouts, or confusing forms can create sensory overload or cognitive fatigue, forcing them to abandon tasks halfway through.

Also, a user with mobility impairments who navigates via keyboard or switch device may be unable to fill out forms or interact with content if the tab order is broken or focus indicators are missing.

These examples illustrate how inclusive digital design isn’t just a technical standard – it’s a human right. 

How to identify and fix accessibility issues

Solving accessibility issues starts with awareness and ends with systematic action. Whether you’re improving an existing product or starting from scratch, following a consistent workflow makes accessibility scalable and sustainable.

1. Start with an audit

Begin by running an accessibility audit on your website or app. Use automated tools like axe DevTools or WAVE to fix the most common issues – like missing alt text, low contrast, or unlabeled form fields.

But remember: automation only catches around 30–40% of accessibility problems.

2. Complement with manual testing

Manual testing is essential to uncover structural and experiential issues:

• Use a keyboard to navigate your site – can you reach every interactive element? If not, you need to get fixing.
• Turn on a screen reader to check the reading order and label clarity.
• Zoom to 200% or more and see how layouts adapt.
• Review form validation, error messaging, and interactive feedback.

3. Fix strategically

Rather than try and fix everything at once, concentrate on triaging issues based on severity and user impact – starting with high-traffic or pages that are critical for conversion. 

Tackle foundational issues like:

• Color contrast and font readability
• Heading structure
• Alt text and image roles
• Keyboard traps and missing focus indicators
  

4. Bake accessibility into your workflow

Make sure you train your team. It sounds obvious, but as we know, it’s not always a focus point until you know how important it is. 

You should add accessibility checks to your QA process, building and documenting inclusive design patterns from the start.

Best tools for accessibility testing

Choosing the right tools can significantly streamline your accessibility work. While no single solution catches everything, combining automated checks with manual testing will help uncover most major issues.

1. WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool)

WAVE is a free browser extension that visually highlights accessibility problems on your webpage, like missing alt text, low color contrast, and structural errors. It’s beginner-friendly and great for quick audits.

2. axe DevTools

axe by Deque Systems is a powerful developer tool that integrates with browser DevTools. It provides detailed diagnostics and code-level suggestions, making it ideal for developers embedding accessibility in their workflow.

3. Google Lighthouse

Built into Chrome DevTools, Lighthouse runs automated audits for performance, SEO, and accessibility. It assigns an accessibility score and surfaces common issues like missing ARIA labels or small tap targets.

4. Other helpful tools

• Color contrast analyzers (e.g., TPGi or Stark)
• HTML validators to ensure semantic structure
• Browser zoom and keyboard-only testing for manual checks

Remember, no tool is a silver bullet – but together, they help create a clear path to digital inclusion.

Conclusion: Remove barriers, unlock inclusion

Accessibility issues are more than just technical bugs – they’re barriers that prevent millions of people from fully participating in the digital world. 

From missing alt text to poor color contrast and broken keyboard navigation, these problems can affect user experience, SEO performance, and legal compliance.

But with the right knowledge and tools, your team can tackle these issues effectively, one fix at a time. Start with a thorough audit, prioritize critical pages, and embed accessibility into your design and development process moving forward.

You’ll not only create a better experience for users with disabilities, you’ll build more resilient, inclusive, and future-proof digital products for everyone.

The post How to identify and fix the most common accessibility issues appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

As more services and content migrate online, businesses must make sure that all users –  including those with disabilities – can access and interact with digital platforms without barriers. 

This is where accessibility compliance comes into play.

At its core, accessibility compliance means adhering to standards and legal frameworks designed to make digital content usable for everyone, regardless of ability. 

These standards support individuals who rely on assistive technologies like screen readers or keyboard navigation, but they also enhance the overall user experience and prioritize inclusivity.

The problem is that, for many organizations, navigating the complexities of accessibility laws and implementing practical compliance strategies can feel overwhelming. There is a world of acronyms to contend with (WCAG, ADA, and EAA, anyone?), and with the list of requirements growing, it’s easy to get lost.

In this article, we’re going to break it all down: what accessibility compliance means, why it matters, and how your organization can achieve and maintain it – while minimizing risk and creating a better web for all.

First up, what is accessibility compliance?

Accessibility compliance means that you’re making sure that digital products – such as websites, mobile apps, and online documents – are usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. Specifically, it means aligning your digital assets with established accessibility standards and legal requirements so that no user is excluded due to visual, auditory, motor, cognitive, or other impairments.

The most widely recognized benchmark for accessibility is the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). WCAG outlines principles for making web content perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust (the POUR principles). These guidelines help developers and content creators build more inclusive experiences, with levels of compliance ranging from A (basic) to AAA (the highest standard).

Beyond WCAG, organizations must also consider jurisdiction-specific laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the U.S., the European Accessibility Act (EAA) in the EU, and Section 508 for U.S. federal agencies. These regulations may carry legal consequences if not followed.

Compliance doesn’t just involve code. It includes accessible design choices, like using the best fonts for accessibility and appropriate color contrast, and providing alt text for images and text-to-speech support. 

Remember, accessibility compliance is a legal requirement and a commitment to inclusive digital experiences.

Why is accessibility compliance so important?

Accessibility compliance isn’t just about ticking legal boxes – it’s about guaranteeing equitable digital access for all users, regardless of ability. 

The internet is a vital space for communication, commerce, education, and civic participation. So when digital platforms exclude people with disabilities, they don’t just limit access, they make space for inequality.

From an ethical standpoint, accessibility is fundamental to digital inclusion. Making your website or app usable for someone who relies on a screen reader, voice navigation, or a keyboard interface reflects a commitment to inclusive design and equal opportunity.

The business case is just as compelling. Accessible websites benefit from better user experience, improved navigation, and broader audience reach. They’re also more SEO-friendly, as many accessibility best practices – like semantic HTML and alt text – support search engine indexing. 

Plus, accessibility compliance can open the door to government contracts and partnerships that require WCAG or Section 508 adherence.

Then there’s the legal dimension. Non-compliance can lead to lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage. High-profile cases involving companies like Domino’s, Netflix, and Target have shown that courts are increasingly siding with users who face digital barriers.

For all these reasons, accessibility compliance is a strategic priority – not just a technical requirement.

Key accessibility laws and regulations (that you need to know)

Before you can get on the way to accessibility compliance, you need to understand the legal landscape.

Below is an overview of the most influential laws and frameworks that may apply to your organization.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA is a civil rights law in the United States that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. While it doesn’t explicitly reference websites, U.S. courts increasingly interpret digital spaces as “places of public accommodation,” meaning websites and apps must be accessible under ADA Title III.

Failing to comply can lead to costly lawsuits, particularly if your website serves the public. Businesses of all sizes have faced legal action, from global brands to local restaurants – don’t become one of them!

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

We’ve already dipped into WCAG, but let’s explore it in more detail. 

Developed by the W3C, WCAG is not a law but serves as the de facto global standard for digital accessibility. 

Its three compliance levels – A, AA, and AAA – provide increasing levels of accessibility. As a frame of reference, most legal frameworks recommend or require conformance to WCAG 2.1 Level AA.

European Accessibility Act (EAA)

The European Accessibility Act is a landmark directive that standardizes accessibility rules across the EU. It applies to websites, mobile apps, e-commerce platforms, ticketing services, ATMs, and more – but importantly, only B2C businesses, who had to comply by June 28, 2025, and are now required to ensure ongoing compliance.

Section 508 (U.S.)

This federal law mandates that all U.S. government agencies – and any organizations doing business with them – make sure their electronic and information technology is accessible. 

NOTE: Section 508 explicitly references WCAG compliance, so keep that in mind.

Who needs to comply with accessibility standards?

Accessibility compliance isn’t limited to public institutions or tech giants. A wide range of organizations – across sectors and sizes – may be legally or ethically required to meet accessibility standards.

Public sector obligations

In many jurisdictions, public bodies must follow strict accessibility laws. For example, Section 508 mandates compliance for U.S. federal agencies, while the EU Web Accessibility Directive enforces similar requirements for public sector websites and mobile apps in Europe.

Private sector responsibilities

Private companies are increasingly held accountable, too. In the U.S., businesses that offer “places of public accommodation” online – like e-commerce stores, banking platforms, and streaming services – are expected to meet ADA accessibility requirements. 

In the EU, the upcoming European Accessibility Act extends those obligations to B2C businesses offering digital services across member states.

But even if you’re not legally required to comply today, market forces and ethical expectations are driving widespread adoption. Enterprise partners, government contracts, and savvy consumers now expect inclusive digital experiences.

Whether you’re a startup, a SaaS provider, a digital agency, or a municipality, if your platform serves the public – it should be accessible.

Common barriers to accessibility compliance

Despite the clear benefits and legal mandates, many organizations still struggle to achieve accessibility compliance. These challenges often stem from a combination of technical complexity, resource constraints, and a lack of internal awareness.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the barriers. 

1. Limited awareness and expertise

Many teams are simply unaware of their accessibility obligations or assume that they are only relevant to public-sector entities. 

Others may recognize the need but lack the in-house expertise to implement standards like WCAG effectively.

2. Perceived cost and time investment

Accessibility improvements are sometimes viewed as expensive or disruptive – especially when retrofitting legacy systems. But postponing compliance can be even more costly in the long run due to legal exposure and rework.

3. Technical debt and outdated systems

Older websites and applications often rely on inaccessible design patterns, non-semantic code, or proprietary platforms that make compliance difficult. Fixing these issues may require a phased approach, starting with quick wins and having a long-term strategic plan.

4. Inconsistent processes

Without clear workflows for testing, maintaining, and updating accessibility features, compliance efforts can be patchy or unsustainable over time.

Understanding these common barriers is the first step toward overcoming them – and building a roadmap to sustainable, inclusive design.

How to get on the road to accessibility compliance

Achieving accessibility compliance isn’t a one-time fix – it’s an ongoing process that blends design, development, content strategy, and legal awareness. 

Here’s a step-by-step framework to help your organization get started and stay compliant.

1. Conduct an accessibility audit

Start by evaluating your current digital assets – websites, mobile apps, PDFs, and customer portals. 

Use both automated tools and manual testing to identify issues related to (not an exhaustive list):

• Color contrast
• Missing or improper alt text
• Non-semantic HTML
• Keyboard navigation
• Labeling and form field issues

2. Identify applicable standards and laws

It’s important that you determine which legal frameworks apply to your organization. 

For example:

• ADA or Section 508 (U.S.)
• European Accessibility Act (EU)
• WCAG 2.1 AA (industry best practice globally)

Though it can seem daunting, the earlier you identify this, the better, so you can get started.

3. Prioritize remediation

Remember, not all issues carry the same weight. 

Prioritize critical barriers first – especially those that prevent access to core services or information. Implement low-hanging fixes immediately while developing a longer-term remediation roadmap.

4. Embed Inclusive Design Principles

You can easily bake accessibility into your design and development processes by:

• Using accessible typography (e.g., best fonts for dyslexia, most accessible fonts)
• Maintaining proper color contrast
• Writing descriptive, helpful alt text
• Designing for neurodiversity (e.g., ADHD font, calm visual layouts)
  

5. Maintain ongoing compliance

Accessibility isn’t static. Create internal documentation, assign ownership, and revisit compliance regularly – especially when launching new features or redesigns.

You can try an array of automated and manual testing techniques, such as:

Automated accessibility testing tools

These tools can quickly identify many common WCAG violations:

• WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool): Chrome extension that highlights contrast issues, missing alt text, and ARIA errors.
• axe DevTools: A browser plugin that provides actionable diagnostics during development.
• Google Lighthouse: Built into Chrome DevTools, this audit tool scores your site for accessibility and suggests fixes.

Manual testing techniques

You may want to try out some manual testing techniques, just to see how your accessibility fares in real life. 

You can try:

• Navigating your site using only a keyboard
• Browsing with a screen reader like NVDA (Windows) or VoiceOver (macOS)
• Zooming in to 200% to test layout responsiveness
• Reviewing content for clear headings, labels, and focus order

Assistive technology simulation

Go beyond checklists and experience your platform like a real user would. 

Simulating or using actual text-to-speech tools, alternative input devices, or speech recognition software can reveal usability gaps that others miss.

Legal consequences and fines for non-compliance

Failing to meet accessibility compliance standards can result in serious legal and financial consequences – especially as global enforcement tightens.

In the United States, lawsuits under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) have surged in recent years. 

These cases often target websites and mobile apps that are inaccessible to users with disabilities. Courts have consistently ruled in favor of plaintiffs, even when businesses claimed they weren’t aware of their obligations. Settlements and court rulings can cost companies tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, not to mention reputational harm.

In the European Union, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) introduces structured enforcement mechanisms. Non-compliance can result in regulatory investigations, market withdrawal of non-conforming products, and substantial fines.

With the compliance deadline set for June 2025, regulators are preparing to clamp down on any businesses who aren’t ready.

Countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK also have strict accessibility mandates, and penalties vary depending on jurisdiction and sector.

Inaction is not a neutral choice – it poses clear legal and commercial risks. Proactive compliance is a shield against litigation and a path to a more inclusive brand experience.

Conclusion: compliance that drives inclusion – and growth

Accessibility compliance is no longer optional – it’s essential. Whether you’re driven by ethical responsibility, legal risk, or business opportunity, building accessible digital experiences is the right move for your organization and your users.

From understanding global regulations like the ADA, WCAG, and EAA, to embedding inclusive design and adopting the right testing tools, compliance can seem complex. But it doesn’t have to be.

With the right strategy, partners, and mindset, accessibility becomes a powerful driver of innovation, trust, and brand reputation.

The post A complete guide to accessibility compliance for digital platforms appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

And it’s one that’s often overlooked; unnoticed in the frantic flurry of everyday life. 

While technology keeps advancing at a rapid pace, we might not always think of those left behind: not everyone can access or use technology equally. 

This is the digital divide. 

With the digital world being woven into nearly every part of modern life – from education and healthcare to banking, shopping, and government services – it’s a divide that can accelerate the growth of other forms of inequality.  

That’s where digital access comes in.

Digital access means ensuring everyone, regardless of ability or circumstance, has equal opportunity to use digital tools, websites, and services. It’s about removing barriers that prevent people from participating in online life – whether it’s because of disability, age, device limitations, or other reasons.

Digital access is something that many organizations overlook. But those that embrace it only stand to benefit, especially with governments around the world encouraging its adoption.

By the end of this post, you’ll know the ins and outs of digital access, how you can get your business closer to compliance, and how you can help contribute to closing the digital divide.

Why digital access matters in today’s world

So much of everyday life relies on the digital world. We register for healthcare appointments, apply for jobs, pay bills, study, shop and connect with others – all through digital platforms. 

But not everyone can do these things easily. When websites or apps aren’t designed with digital access in mind, they effectively shut out billions of people.

It’s true: 2.6 billion people around the world don’t have digital access. That means they don’t enjoy the same opportunities and conveniences as the rest of the population.  

That’s why digital access is so important. It ensures no one, regardless of circumstance or disability, is left behind. 

Key barriers to digital access

Even with the best intentions, many digital experiences still leave people behind. Here are some of the most common barriers:

• Design that doesn’t consider diverse needs: Complex layouts, low-contrast colors, missing alt text, and inaccessible forms make it hard – or impossible – for users with visual, cognitive, or motor impairments to navigate content.
• Lack of assistive technology support: Some websites and apps aren’t compatible with screen readers, keyboard navigation, or other assistive tools that many users rely on every day.
• Language and literacy challenges: Complicated language, lack of translations and inaccessible documentation can alienate users who speak different languages or have lower literacy levels.
• Device and connectivity limitations: Many people rely on mobile devices or slower internet connections. If a site is slow to load or not mobile-responsive, it instantly becomes unusable for a significant number of users.
• Unclear or inconsistent UX: Confusing navigation, missing labels, and inconsistent layouts can create frustrating experiences – especially for users with cognitive or neurological conditions.

The role of web accessibility in digital access

Web accessibility is a cornerstone of digital access. It ensures that websites, apps, and digital tools are designed in a way so that everyone can perceive, navigate, and interact with them effectively.

At its core, web accessibility is built around four key principles: content should be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust – often referred to as the POUR principles. These are the foundation of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and the EU’s accessibility standards.

Accessible design is about creating digital spaces that work for different needs, contexts, and abilities. That means:

• Providing text alternatives for images and multimedia
• Ensuring keyboard-only navigation is possible
• Using sufficient contrast and readable font sizes
• Structuring content clearly with headings and labels
• Making sure interactive elements (like buttons and forms) are compatible with assistive technology

When done right, web accessibility enhances digital experiences for all users, not just those with permanent disabilities. It supports aging populations, users in noisy environments, or people dealing with temporary impairments – ensuring everyone has equal digital access, no matter their ability or circumstance.  

Digital access and inclusive technology

Inclusive technology is a powerful enabler of digital access. It ensures people can independently access information, complete tasks and participate in digital spaces without needing help or workarounds – the essence of digital access.

Inclusive technology involves tools, platforms, and systems that adapt to people, such as:

• Screen readers and text-to-speech software for people with vision impairments
• Speech recognition tools for those who can’t use a keyboard or mouse
• Keyboard-only navigation and voice assistants for users with motor disabilities
• Transcripts, captions, and sign language interpretation for users who are deaf and hard-of-hearing
• Simplified, distraction-free interfaces for people with cognitive or neurological conditions
• Customizable visual settings (like text size, color contrast, or dark mode) for better readability
• Responsive, lightweight design that supports low-bandwidth connections or mobile-only users

By embracing inclusive technology, organizations can reduce friction, reach more users, and create digital experiences that welcome everyone.

How governments and organizations promote digital access

Around the world, governments and organizations are stepping up with legislation  and strategic initiatives to close the digital divide:

Americans with Disabilities Act

In the US, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has long recognized accessibility as a civil right – and that increasingly includes digital spaces. 

While the ADA was originally written with physical accessibility in mind, courts have repeatedly interpreted its provisions to apply to websites, mobile apps, and other digital services. This has led to a growing number of lawsuits and settlements involving organizations whose digital platforms failed to accommodate users with disabilities. 

UK Accessibility legislation

In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 legally requires organizations to make reasonable adjustments for people with disabilities – including in digital contexts. But the Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) (No.2) Accessibility Regulations 2018 go a step further, mandating that all UK public sector websites and apps meet the WCAG 2.1 Level A and AA standards, publish an accessibility statement, and maintain accessibility as they update their content.

The European Accessibility Act

In the EU, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a major milestone. It’s an EU directive that aims to improve access to key products and services for people with disabilities. It came into force on June 28th 2025 and applies to businesses offering digital services or products to EU consumers.

The EAA requires these products and services to follow core accessibility principles and to be compatible with assistive technology. Businesses must also provide an accessibility statement explaining how their services meet the requirements.

While microenterprises are exempt, they’re encouraged to comply. Exemptions also apply to legacy systems, third-party content, and archived materials.

Beyond legislation, many organizations are weaving digital access into broader diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies. This includes building inclusive design into any digital products they develop, ensuring their websites and apps meet accessibility guidelines, and training staff in accessibility best practices. 

And you can see, ensuring digital access is quickly becoming the norm across the world. Businesses that commit to improving accessibility by adhering to best practice will spare themselves the legal repercussions and penalties that come from non-compliance. 

Best practices for improving digital access

Improving digital access doesn’t have to be difficult. Small changes can make a big difference. Here are some best practices to build more inclusive digital experiences:

• Start with accessibility in mind: Building digital access into your design and development processes from day one makes things easier – and it can be more affordable in the long run. 
• Follow established standards: Use frameworks like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 or higher) or, if applicable, the standards set in legislation such as the European Accessibility Act. These provide clear technical benchmarks for making content more accessible.
• Make your content inclusive: Use clear, plain language. Structure pages with headings. Include alt text for images, captions for videos, and labels for form fields. Provide alternatives to flashing or moving content that can be distracting or harmful to certain users. 
• Ensure keyboard navigation works: Many users rely on keyboards or assistive technologies to navigate. Make sure every interactive element can be accessed without a mouse.
• Test with real users: Include users with disabilities in your testing processes to uncover barriers that tools might miss.
• Be transparent: Publish an accessibility statement that outlines what you’re doing well and where you’re improving. 
• Train your teams: Educate your designers, developers, content creators and marketers on accessibility principles and how they apply to their work.
• Maintain accessibility over time: Accessibility isn’t a one-off task. As you add or update content, audit your platform regularly to ensure you’re not introducing new barriers.

As well as following these best practices, there are simple tools that can help you improve digital access with minimal setup. 

Digital access in education and the workplace

Digital access has become a non-negotiable in both classrooms and offices. As more learning and work shift online, ensuring inclusive access to tools and content is essential for legal compliance and equal opportunity.

In education

From online classes to digital textbooks, students now rely heavily on digital platforms. But when those platforms aren’t accessible, entire groups of learners are left at a disadvantage.

For example:

• Course materials that don’t work with screen readers can prevent students from learning
• Videos without captions exclude deaf or hard-of-hearing learners
• Timed online tests without accommodations can be impossible for students with processing difficulties

Accessible digital education empowers all students to participate fully. By adopting inclusive platforms, training educators in accessibility best practices, and providing accessible materials, schools can ensure greater digital access for their students. 

In the workplace

Digital systems are now the foundation of today’s work environments – from onboarding processes to internal communications and productivity tools. 

If digital tools in the workplace aren’t accessible, they create barriers to productivity, inclusion and even hiring.

An inaccessible intranet, for example, can prevent employees from accessing HR resources. A virtual meeting platform without captions can exclude deaf and hard-of-hearing team members. Even inaccessible job application forms can filter out qualified candidates before they get a chance.

Accessible workplace tech supports diversity, equity, and inclusion and helps attract and retain talent from all backgrounds. It also improves collaboration, since accessible design often results in clearer communication and more user-friendly interfaces for everyone.

A win-win for people and business

Digital access is no longer optional. As more services, interactions, and systems move online, ensuring everyone can use them is both a legal obligation and a practical necessity.

Addressing the barriers to digital access in your products and services isn’t just the right thing to do. It reduces legal risk, improves user experience, and extends your reach to a wider customer base. 

Ensuring digital access is a win-win – and with our Accessibility Widget, you can start with just a couple of clicks. 

The post Designing for everyone: Why digital access is now a must-have appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

You need to make sure your digital content is accessible. And that means you have to break down barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully using your products. 

Whether it’s a website, mobile app, or software platform, prioritizing accessibility improves user experience and helps you stay on the right side of the law.

With the rise of global standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and regulations like the European Accessibility Act 2025, more and more businesses are getting serious about accessibility testing. 

However, despite its importance, many teams still struggle to test for accessibility effectively, leaving issues unresolved and users frustrated.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about accessibility testing – from the basics to advanced techniques.

You’ll learn about manual and automated testing approaches, get practical tips for carrying out audits, and discover how to make your digital products more inclusive. 

Let’s dive in!

First, why accessibility testing matters

Accessibility testing guarantees that everyone – including people with disabilities – can access and enjoy your digital content. 

It’s not just about ticking boxes for compliance, it’s about making sure no one is left out.

What are the risks of ignoring accessibility?

Simply, skipping accessibility testing can cause big problems. 

The most obvious one? Legal issues. With the European Accessibility Act 2025 having come into effect on June 28, 2025, companies are under pressure to make their digital content accessible. Ignoring it could mean lawsuits and damage to your brand’s reputation.

There is also the user experience factor. Imagine a visually impaired person trying to navigate your website that lacks alt text or uses poor color contrast. Not only do they struggle, but they’re also highly likely to leave your site and never come back.

Making user experience more inclusive

Accessibility is about more than just avoiding lawsuits. It’s about putting users first. Incorporating human-centered design and testing with assistive technologies, like screen readers or the Android Accessibility Suite, makes your content usable for everyone.

Plus, making your site more accessible benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities.

Think keyboard navigation and clear text contrast. These are good for users with slow internet, mobile users, and anyone who appreciates a streamlined experience.

Stay ahead of the curve

Taking accessibility seriously sets your brand apart. It shows you’re proactive, responsible, and committed to inclusion. 

It’s also a competitive advantage – customers appreciate brands that prioritize their needs.

Key standards and guidelines

Let’s talk about standards. 

Accessibility testing is rooted in established standards and guidelines that define how digital products and services should be made accessible. Understanding these standards is crucial for effective testing and compliance. 

Let’s look at the most widely recognized frameworks and regulations that guide accessibility practices.

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the most widely adopted set of guidelines for web accessibility. Managed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), WCAG provides a comprehensive framework organized into four key principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (often abbreviated as POUR).

WCAG is structured into three conformance levels:

• A (Minimum accessibility): Basic web accessibility features.
• AA (Mid-range accessibility): Deals with the most common accessibility barriers.
• AAA (Highest accessibility): Offers enhanced accessibility, which is often difficult to achieve across all content.
  

Adhering to WCAG 2.1 AA is typically considered the industry standard for web accessibility.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA is a U.S. civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. While it initially targeted physical spaces, it has since been interpreted to cover digital environments, especially websites.

Guaranteeing compliance with ADA standards is vital for U.S.-based businesses to avoid legal challenges and public backlash.

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act

This regulation mandates that all federal agencies’ electronic and information technology be accessible to people with disabilities. Section 508 compliance is essential for government websites and any businesses that contract with federal agencies.

European Accessibility Act (2025)

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) sets out comprehensive requirements for products and services to be accessible to people with disabilities. It covers websites, mobile apps, e-commerce, and more, making it essential for businesses operating within the EU.

Other international standards

Remember, different countries have their own accessibility requirements, so it’s important to check that you’re covered everywhere you operate.

Here are a few examples:

• Canada: Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
• Australia: Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)
• United Kingdom: Equality Act 2010
  

By aligning your testing practices with these standards, you ensure that your digital content meets legal requirements and provides an inclusive user experience. 

Types of Accessibility Testing

Accessibility testing can be conducted through various methods, each serving a unique purpose in identifying and addressing accessibility barriers. 

The most effective approach often involves combining multiple testing methods to cover both technical and user-centered aspects. 

Let’s take a look:

Manual accessibility testing

Manual testing involves human evaluators interacting directly with the website or application to identify accessibility barriers. While it can be time-consuming, it offers nuanced insights that automated tools may miss, such as contextual issues or nuanced usability challenges.

Techniques for manual accessibility testing

1. Screen reader testing: Using tools like NVDA, JAWS, or mobile options like TalkBack to ensure compatibility.
2. Keyboard navigation: Checking whether users can fully navigate the site using only a keyboard.
3. Color contrast analysis: Verifying that text and background combinations meet minimum contrast ratios (e.g., using a color contrast analyzer).
4. Alt text verification: Making sure that alt text for images is meaningful and accurate.
5. ARIA Roles and Labels: Verifying the correct use of ARIA roles to provide semantic meaning and screen reader support.
   

Automated accessibility testing

Automated testing tools quickly scan digital content to identify common accessibility issues. While they are efficient at detecting technical problems, they cannot replace the thoroughness of manual testing. 

As a result, automation should complement manual efforts rather than replace them.

Popular automated testing tools

• Axe Accessibility Checker: Integrates into browser developer tools to find WCAG violations.
• WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool): Analyzes entire web pages and highlights errors.
• Pa11y: An open-source tool for testing web accessibility.
• Lighthouse (by Google): Provides accessibility scores and suggestions for improvement.

User testing with people with disabilities

Testing with actual users who have disabilities is a critical component of a comprehensive accessibility strategy. 

Automated and manual methods often miss real-world challenges that users face, such as navigating complex forms or interpreting content with screen readers.

Key considerations

• Diverse user base: Involve users with various disabilities, including visual impairments, hearing impairments, and cognitive disabilities.
• Assistive technology testing: Evaluate how digital products work with tools like Android Accessibility Suite and screen readers.
• Cognitive load considerations: Make sure that content is presented clearly to reduce cognitive strain, especially for users with conditions like dyslexia.
  

Practical tips

• Task-based testing: Give users real tasks to complete, such as filling out a form or navigating to specific content.
• Feedback gathering: Collect insights about usability challenges directly from users.
• Accessibility iconography: Use standard icons and symbols that users with cognitive or visual impairments recognize.
  

Why combining methods is essential

Relying on just one method of testing can leave significant gaps. By combining manual, automated, and user testing, organizations can achieve more comprehensive and accurate results. This multi-faceted approach ensures that both technical compliance and real-world usability are addressed, delivering a fully inclusive digital experience.

Next, we’ll dive into some of the most common accessibility barriers that are uncovered during testing and how to address them effectively.

Common accessibility barriers

Let’s take a look at some of the most common issues you’ll run into during accessibility testing:

• Missing alt text: Screen readers can’t describe images without it.
• Poor color contrast: Makes text hard to read, especially for visually impaired users.
• Inaccessible navigation: If users can’t navigate via a keyboard, that’s a problem.
• Cognitive load issues: Overly complex content can overwhelm users with cognitive disabilities.
• Wrong ARIA Labels: Incorrect roles confuse screen readers and users alike.

Fixing these issues not only makes your content accessible but also improves the overall user experience.

How to perform an accessibility audit on your website

Conducting an accessibility audit is a systematic way to find and fix accessibility issues. You need to follow these steps to make sure your digital product meets current standards:

1. Plan your audit: First, you need to identify the pages and components to test.
2. Use automated tools first: Make sure you run automated scans to detect common issues.
3. Conduct manual checks: Test for things that automation might miss, like keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility.
4. User testing: Remember to involve real users with disabilities to get genuine feedback on usability; otherwise, you’re basing your findings on assumptions.
5. Document findings: Create a report outlining detected issues and their severity so you always have a point of reference.

Steps to fix accessibility issues after testing

Once you’ve identified issues during your audit, it’s time to fix them.

1. Prioritize issues: Focus on high-impact problems first, like navigation barriers and missing alt text.
2. Implement fixes: Adjust code, design elements, and content based on findings. Our Accessibility Widget aims to make websites more accessible by using AI to scan for issues and automatically adjust code to improve accessibility for users with disabilities.
3. Test fixes: Re-run automated tools and manual checks to confirm fixes are effective.
4. Gather feedback: Engage users to test improvements and ensure better usability.
5. Maintain accessibility: Make ongoing testing part of your workflow to keep your site accessible.

What are the best tools for accessibility testing?

As we know, a workperson is only as good as their tools. Make sure you’re working out what’s best for you and your users.

You can try:

• Axe Accessibility Checker: A browser extension that finds WCAG violations and helps you correct them.
• WAVE: A tool that visually highlights accessibility errors on web pages.
• Lighthouse (by Google): Evaluates accessibility alongside performance and SEO.
• Pa11y: Open-source tool for automated accessibility testing.
• Color Contrast Analyzer: Ensures text and background contrast meet guidelines.

Making digital spaces accessible for everyone

Accessibility testing isn’t just about compliance – it’s about making your digital spaces welcoming and usable for everyone. By combining manual testing, automated tools, and user feedback, you can make sure your content is accessible to all.

Take action now to make your site more inclusive. Start testing today and make your digital products better for everyone!

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Everything is easy to navigate. The content makes sense. You don’t have to wrestle with weird buttons or unreadable text.

For millions of people with disabilities, that’s unfortunately rarely the case. 

But new legislation aims to change that.

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a sweeping piece of EU legislation that took effect on June 28, 2025. It applies to businesses that sell digital products or services in the EU, including many SMBs and international companies.

However, with this act set to hit, businesses across Europe are left wondering whether they’re about to be in breach of the law.

So, what are you supposed to do?

In this guide, we’ll break down what the EAA is, who it applies to, and how you can get your business ready.

What is the European Accessibility Act (EAA)?

The European Accessibility Act (Directive 2019/882) is an EU directive that aims to improve access to digital and physical products and services for people with disabilities.

It applies to a wide range of services and sectors, from e-commerce and banking to media, telephony, and transport, including the websites and mobile apps that power them.

This law builds on the earlier Web Accessibility Directive, which focused on public sector websites. The EAA takes things a few steps further by extending accessibility obligations to private businesses.

Who must comply with the European Accessibility Act?

The EAA applies to EU-based and non-EU businesses offering products or services within the European Union.

In general, you need to comply if:

• You sell digital products or services in the EU: This includes anything from physical goods sold through a website to services like video streaming, online banking, or transport booking – if it’s available to EU consumers, it counts. 
• You employ 10+ people or have over €2 million in annual turnover or balance sheet: These are the official thresholds, and you need to exceed at least one of them to fall under the EAA. If you’re under both, you may qualify for the microenterprise exemption. 
• Your website or app serves consumers (B2C): If your platform is meant for everyday users, it’s considered customer-facing. That means it’s subject to the EAA.

Even if you’re based outside the EU – whether in the UK, the US, or elsewhere – you’re still on the hook if your offering reaches EU consumers.

Microenterprises (under 10 employees and under €2M in turnover or balance sheet total) are exempt, but they’re still strongly encouraged to comply voluntarily. 

It’s important to remember that an accessible website is a user-friendly website. So, even if your business doesn’t fall under the remit of EAA compliance, making your website compliant allows you to:

• Reach more users (including the 27% of the EU population with a disability)
• Improve SEO and performance
• Enhance brand reputation
• Support legal compliance across multiple regions to meet standards such as the US (ADA) and UK accessibility laws

Key requirements of the European Accessibility Act

Under the EAA, covered businesses must design products and services that are accessible to people with disabilities – including websites and apps.

This means meeting criteria such as:

• Offering information through multiple sensory channels: For example, combining visual text with audio or tactile outputs.
• Making content perceivable and understandable: So users can find and interpret information clearly and easily.
• Using readable fonts, sufficient contrast, and adjustable spacing: To improve legibility and adapt to different visual needs.
• Supplementing visual elements with text or audio alternatives: Like alt text for images or transcripts for video and audio.
• Supporting screen readers and keyboard navigation: To allow people to access and move through content without a mouse. 
• Following the POUR principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust

How the EAA affects websites and digital services

If your site or app helps users buy something, book something, watch something, or communicate, chances are it’s covered.

Some examples of affected services include:

• E-commerce websites and digital marketplaces
• Online banking and financial apps
• Video streaming platforms
• Public transport booking systems
• E-books and digital reading platforms
• Customer communication services (e.g., VoIP or messaging)

And remember: it’s not just about what’s visible. The entire user journey – forms, buttons, pop-ups, error messages – needs to be accessible.

European Accessibility Act vs. Other accessibility laws

While the EAA is the EU’s biggest step toward digital accessibility, it’s part of a larger global trend. Countries across the world are introducing their own accessibility rules to try to make life easier for people with disabilities. 

Here’s how the laws compare:

Deadlines and compliance timeline

Here’s what you need to know about the EAA compliance deadlines:

• June 28, 2025 – This is the main compliance deadline under the EAA
• For products – Only those placed on the market after June 28, 2025, must comply
• For services – All services provided to consumers after June 28, 2025 must comply, even if the service was originally launched before that date

This means that if you continue to offer a service (like a website or an app) beyond the deadline, it has to meet EAA accessibility requirements, no matter when it was created. 

The EAA also allows for transitional periods. For example, services that rely on older products that were already in use before the deadline can continue operating under certain conditions until June 28, 2030. 

Penalties for non-compliance

Because the EAA is a directive, enforcement varies by country. But in all EU member states, authorities will:

• Investigate complaints: Member States must establish procedures to investigate and address reported accessibility issues.
• Respond to identified accessibility issues: Action can be taken if a complaint or report reveals that services fail to meet EAA requirements
• Issue fines or other penalties: If you’re found to be non-compliant, you can face sanctions. Member States define their own penalties, which may include corrective actions, sanctions, or other consequences.

Penalties must be effective, proportionate, and dissuasive – but the exact measures are determined by each Member State. That could mean anything from corrective actions, sanctions, or other consequences, depending on national law. 

Ignoring the EAA doesn’t just hurt your users. It could hurt your business, too.

How to make your business EAA-compliant

Getting ready for EAA compliance shouldn’t just be a box-checking exercise. It’s about improving your business and giving it a more inclusive digital presence, benefiting all customers, not just those with disabilities. 

Here’s how to start:

Step 1: Audit your site or app

Use automated tools like WAVE, axe, or Lighthouse to identify any key issues.

Step 2: Fix the major barriers

Once you’ve identified your site’s accessibility issues, start by resolving the most common and high-impact problems. This can include things like:

• Adding missing alt text to images: So screen readers can describe visual content to users with visual impairments
• Increasing color contrast between text and background: To improve readability for users with low vision or color blindness
• Enabling keyboard navigation for all interactive elements: So users can browse your site without using a mouse
• Updating form labels and error messages for clarity: To help assistive technologies interpret and communicate input fields
• Making pop-ups and modals accessible to screen readers: So important content isn’t missed or blocked

Step 3: Add accessibility tools

You can support your efforts by adding a few front-end accessibility widgets. This allows users to personalize their browsing experience so that it fits their needs. For example:

• Text resizing options: So users can increase font size without breaking layout
• Color contrast toggles (e.g., dark mode, high contrast): To support different visual preferences or needs
• Keyboard focus enhancements: To make sure users can see where they are on the page
• Options to pause animations or flashing elements: To reduce distractions and support users with epilepsy or cognitive sensitivities

Tools like iubenda’s Accessibility Widget offer an easy way to introduce these kinds of real-time adjustments with just one line of code – helping you to improve your accessibility without a full site rebuild. 

However, it’s important to note that while these tools improve the accessibility and usability of websites, they’re not a complete solution on their own – full compliance still requires addressing issues at the source.

Step 4: Publish an accessibility statement

Annex V of the EAA requires you to describe your accessibility efforts. This shows transparency and supports compliance.

Step 5: Make accessibility part of your workflow

From new content to design updates – build accessibility into your process. That way, you can stay ahead of the game and not spend time playing catch-up.

FAQs on the European Accessibility Act (EAA)

The post Your guide to the European Accessibility Act: Scope, requirements, and next steps appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

Everything is in the right place, there’s a logical flow, and you can navigate it without thinking twice. 

For millions of people, especially those with disabilities, website accessibility is the be-all and end-all for their online experience. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is one of the most important pieces of legislation protecting the rights of people with disabilities in the US. 

While it was originally written to make physical spaces more accessible, the law has increasingly been interpreted to apply to online spaces like websites and digital services.

But what does all of this mean for you? 

Well, the short answer is that your business could face legal and financial consequences if your website creates any barriers for users with disabilities. 

In this guide, we’ll take a look at what ADA compliance means in the digital world, who needs to comply, and how to get your site on the road to compliance – while also improving user experience, SEO, and your brand’s reputation. 

What is ADA compliance?

ADA compliance is – as the name suggests – compliance with the requirements of the ADA, shorthand for the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

The original law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, education, transportation, and access to goods and services. 

The act was originally enacted by the 101st United States Congress on July 26th, 1990. 

But a lot has changed since then, with the digital world taking off and becoming a much larger part of our day-to-day lives and society. 

So, while the original ADA text doesn’t specifically mention websites, US courts and the Department of Justice have made it clear that websites can be considered places of public accommodation under Title III of the ADA – especially for businesses open to the public. 

Why ADA compliance matters for websites and businesses

Failing to make your website accessible has several downsides, not just in a legal sense. 

It also means:

• Excluding millions of potential customers with disabilities.
• Missing out on SEO and traffic benefits from a well-structured, user-friendly website. 
• Damaging your brand reputation. 

The simple truth is that accessible websites perform better, serve more users, and show a commitment to inclusivity – which today’s customers increasingly expect. 

So, making your website ADA-compliant is a real win-win situation.

Who needs to comply with the ADA?

In general, ADA compliance applies to:

• Businesses that operate in the public sphere: Businesses in retail, hospitality, healthcare, finance, education, and more are expected to provide equal access in both physical and online spaces.  
• State and local government entities: Public sector organizations are covered under Title II of the ADA and must make their websites and digital services accessible. 
• Private businesses with 15 or more employees: While ADA lawsuits have mainly targeted public-facing businesses, private employers of a certain size are also subject to ADA rules. 
• Any website or app that offers goods or services to the public: If your digital presence functions as a storefront or service portal, courts may view it as a place of public accommodation – regardless of your business size. 

In practice, this means that if you run a business website that allows users to browse products, book appointments, make purchases, or access information, your digital presence is expected to be accessible – especially under Title III of the ADA.

Even if you’re not based in the US, if your website targets or serves US users, you could still be at risk. 

ADA compliance and WCAG: What’s the connection?

Unfortunately, there’s no single checklist published by the US government that guarantees ADA compliance. However, the DOJ has repeatedly pointed to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) as the standard businesses should aim to meet. 

The WCAG, currently in version 2.1 (with 2.2 recently published), outlines best practices for making digital content accessible to people with various disabilities – including visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments.

Some of the key principles include:

• Text alternatives: For images, videos, and other non-text content
• Keyboard accessibility: Everything must be usable without a mouse
• Readable and structured content: With logical heading levels
• Sufficient contrast: Between text and background
• Resizing and zooming support: Without loss of content or functionality
• Clear labels and instructions: For forms and inputs
• Error messages and validation: With easy-to-understand text
• No time limits or content that triggers seizures: Without having full user control

That means that making your website WCAG-compliant is the best step you can take to reduce your legal risk and support users with disabilities.

And remember, meeting these requirements improves usability for everyone – not just people with disabilities. 

Common barriers to ADA compliance

Sometimes, even the best-designed websites can accidentally fall short on accessibility. 

Here are some of the more common issues to look out for: 

• Missing image alt text: No descriptions for images or visual elements
• Low contrast text: Hard to read for users with visual impairments
• Unclear button or link labels: When readers can’t interpret the action of a button
• No keyboard navigation: Users can’t navigate without a mouse
• Poor form labels or error messages: Forms become confusing or unusable
• No captions or transcripts: Videos aren’t accessible to deaf users
• Inaccessible pop-ups and banners: Messages that trap focus or block screen readers

Some of these might seem like small, even insignificant details, but they can make a huge difference in whether or not someone can actually use your site – so they’re worth your consideration. 

How to make your website ADA-compliant

Here are a few key steps that could bring you closer to ADA requirements:

Step 1: Audit your current website

The first step is to run an accessibility audit on your website. You can do this by using tools such as: 

• WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool)
• axe DevTools
• Google Lighthouse

These tools can help you pick out common issues. But remember that automated tools don’t catch everything, so a manual review is still needed. 

Step 2: Fix key issues

After you have your list of issues, you can start fixing the most urgent accessibility problems. Things you should focus on first include:

• Adding alt text to images: So screen readers can describe visual content
• Improving text contrast: To help users with low vision read more easily
• Enabling keyboard navigation: So users can move through your site without a mouse
• Updating form labels and error messages: To make forms and messages usable and understandable for assistive tech users

If your site uses pre-built themes or components, make sure they follow accessibility best practices.

Step 3: Add an accessibility interface

Tools like the iubenda Accessibility Widget can help improve your website’s usability through real-time adjustments, such as resizing text, enabling keyboard navigation, or changing contrast.

Just remember, overlays and widgets can support accessibility, but they don’t replace a fully accessible website. The DOJ has made it clear that compliance requires addressing accessibility at the source.

Step 4: Create an accessibility statement

An accessibility statement is a page or document that outlines your accessibility goals, what you’ve done to meet them, and how users can contact you if they face difficulties. 

It shows transparency and helps fulfill requirements under the ADA and the European Accessibility Act (EAA).

Step 5: Build accessibility into your workflow

ADA compliance isn’t a one-time fix. Every time you update your site – whether it’s a new blog post or a redesign – accessibility needs to be part of the process.

Tools to help with ADA compliance

As we just mentioned, there are some tools out there that can help support your efforts to make your website more accessible. 

Here are a few:

• Accessibility testing tools: WAVE, axe, Lighthouse
• Screen readers: NVDA (free), JAWS (paid), VoiceOver (Mac)
• Keyboard-only navigation testing
• iubenda Accessibility Widget: Helps address common accessibility challenges through AI-powered adjustments – and offers an easier path to more inclusive design

Legal risks and penalties for non-compliance

When you ignore accessibility, you create a bad user experience for people who visit your website – but you can also land yourself in legal trouble.

In recent years, ADA website lawsuits have skyrocketed in the US. In fact, according to an ADA website accessibility annual report, 2024 saw over 3,000 lawsuits filed in state and federal courts. 

Businesses in all industries, from retail and finance to hospitality and healthcare, have been targeted for failing to provide accessible websites.

The penalties for non-compliance can include:

• Legal fees and settlement costs
• Court-mandated accessibility fixes
• Reputational damage
• Loss of customers and trust

To put it simply, the cost of non-compliance can far exceed the cost of doing it right in the first place.

What is the European equivalent of the ADA?

There isn’t a direct one-to-one equivalent of the ADA in Europe. Instead, the responsibilities are split across two key pieces of legislation:

• The Web Accessibility Directive (WAD): This applies to public sector websites and mobile apps.
• The European Accessibility Act (EAA): Came into effect on June 28, 2025, this applies to certain private businesses offering digital services and products within the EU

Together, these laws cover many of the same areas as the ADA, although they apply differently across sectors. 

Read our guide on the EAA and international accessibility laws here to learn more. 

Accessibility is good for business

ADA is about so much more than just avoiding lawsuits and fines. 

When you make your website more accessible, you’re creating a space that allows everyone to interact with your brand – regardless of their capabilities. 

That means fewer barriers, better experiences, and more loyal customers. 

Remember, an accessible website:

• Reaches more users (including the 1 in 4 adults with disabilities in the US)
• Improves SEO and performance
• Enhances brand reputation
• Supports legal compliance across multiple regions 

It also sends a clear message that your business values inclusion, usability, and doing the right thing. 

And with the right tools and mindset, accessibility doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

iubenda’s Accessibility Widget offers a simple, cost-effective way to start improving your website’s accessibility today.

FAQs on ADA compliance

The post ADA compliance for websites: Legal risks, guidelines, and how to get started appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

He envisioned it as a force for good – one that would level the playing field and bring equality to all. But 36 years later, that vision is still far from reality.

The internet remains inaccessible to many. Only now, with legislation like the European Accessibility Act (EAA) coming into force in 2025, are we seeing a real push to change that.

So, how can you be part of this change? 

By the end of this post, you’ll have discovered everything you need to know about accessibility – what it is, some of the legal requirements, and how it benefits both people and businesses alike. 

What is accessibility?

Making your website or mobile app accessible means ensuring that all users, including those with disabilities, can navigate, understand, and interact with your digital content.

Accessibility isn’t just about compliance. It’s about creating a better experience for everyone, strengthening your brand, and ensuring you reach the widest possible audience.

Types of accessibility

So, what does accessibility look like in practice? It spans multiple areas:

• Web accessibility: Ensuring websites are navigable with screen readers, keyboard shortcuts, and alternative text for images.
• Mobile accessibility: Designing apps and interfaces to be accessible across different devices. This means supporting features such as voice commands, gesture controls, and adaptive screen layouts.
• Software accessibility: Making software more inclusive with customizable settings, voice-to-text capabilities, and adjustable fonts.
• Content Accessibility: Ensuring that all digital content – text, images, and videos – is structured for easy understanding and navigation, including captions for videos and descriptive alt text for images.

Why accessibility matters in the digital world

Accessibility ensures that people with disabilities – including those with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments – can fully participate in the digital world. 

Technology plays an integral role in everyday life. Without accessibility, barriers prevent people from accessing education, employment, shopping, and even essential services. 

It ends up excluding a large number of people in our society. 

Besides the ethical considerations, accessibility is also important for business. 

Websites and apps designed with accessibility in mind often see increased engagement and conversion rates – as they offer a smoother, more intuitive experience for everyone. 

Accessibility features such as voice navigation, legible fonts, and high-contrast designs also improve usability for individuals without disabilities, making digital products more user-friendly overall.

Common barriers to accessibility

What is it about most websites and digital platforms that make them inaccessible? 

Many websites remain inaccessible due to common issues like:

• Lack of alternative text for images: Screen readers rely on alt text to describe images to visually impaired users.
• Poor color contrast: Low contrast between text and background makes reading difficult for users with visual impairments.
• Inaccessible forms: Forms that lack proper labels and instructions can be difficult to complete using assistive technology.
• Inconsistent or complex navigation: Poorly structured menus and unclear headings make it hard for users to find the information they need.
• Lack of keyboard accessibility: Some users rely on keyboards instead of mice or touchscreens. Inaccessible designs make navigation difficult.
• Uncaptioned audio and video content: Hearing-impaired users need captions to understand multimedia content.

WCAG guidelines

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and founded by Tim Berners-Lee, set the international standard for digital accessibility.

Adhering to WCAG helps businesses and organizations create a more inclusive digital space while ensuring compliance with various accessibility laws worldwide. Following these guidelines not only reduces legal risks but also improves user engagement, SEO performance, and overall user satisfaction.

WCAG is continuously updated to reflect technological advancements and the changing needs of users with disabilities. Staying informed on the latest updates ensures that your website remains accessible and compliant with evolving standards.

Key principles of accessibility

The WCAG are built on four key principles, commonly referred to as POUR. This stands for Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust. 

Ensuring your website or app and its content align with these key principles means you’re on the right track when it comes to accessibility.

Perceivable

Content must be presented in ways that users can perceive. This means providing text alternatives for images, ensuring there’s enough color contrast so text is easy to read, and offering captions for multimedia content.

Operable

Users must be able to navigate and interact with the content using different input methods, including keyboards and screen readers. Important things to keep in mind include avoiding flashing elements that could trigger seizures and ensuring buttons and links are accessible.

Understandable

Information and navigation must be clear so people don’t get confused. This involves having a structure that makes information easy to find, legible fonts, and clear instructions for interactive elements.

Robust

Content must also be compatible with current assistive technology and future developments. Using standardized coding practices and adhering to accessibility guidelines ensures that websites, apps, and their content will be accessible long into the future.

How you can improve accessibility

The great news is that improving accessibility doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s where you can start:

• Conduct regular accessibility audits: Use automated tools and manual testing to identify and fix accessibility issues.
• Use accessible design principles from the start: Designing with accessibility in mind prevents costly fixes in the future. 
• Provide text alternatives for multimedia content: Include captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions.
• Ensure keyboard and screen reader compatibility: Test websites and apps to confirm usability without a mouse.
• Offer clear and simple navigation: Use descriptive links, consistent menus, and logical content structure.
• Implement proper color contrast and legible fonts: Ensure text is legible in all viewing conditions.
• Test with real users, including those with disabilities: Getting feedback from actual users ensures your content is genuinely accessible. 

Making your website accessible

What does accessibility look like on a website? Below you’ll find some examples. Although it isn’t an exhaustive list, ensuring your website has these features will help make it more accessible:

• Screen-reader compatible code
• Adaptable contrast settings
• Text resizing options
• Keyboard navigation
• Cursor enhancements for people with motor impairments
• Adjustable controls for animations and dynamic content for people with epilepsy
• Proper labels on all interactive elements on your site, so they’re compatible with assistive technology

Using inclusive design principles from the very beginning when creating your website is the easiest way to ensure accessibility. Making changes after the fact can involve some complex alterations to your code – but the right tools can make it easier. 

Legal requirements for accessibility

Countries worldwide are putting stringent laws and regulations in place to ensure greater accessibility. 

After all, with many essential services now digital, it’s more important than ever for governments to ensure everyone can access the services they need. 

Here are some of the laws and regulations around the world that mandate digital accessibility:

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA requires businesses operating in the United States to provide equal access to their digital services. While the law doesn’t explicitly outline web accessibility requirements, courts often interpret it to include websites and mobile applications. 

ADA compliance usually follows WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards, ensuring usability for individuals with disabilities.

Section 508 (U.S.)

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act mandates that U.S. federal agencies and organizations receiving government funding must ensure their digital content is accessible.

It explicitly references WCAG 2.0 Level AA as the required standard. Government contractors and vendors must also meet these requirements when providing digital services to federal entities.

European Accessibility Act (EAA)

The EAA establishes accessibility requirements across the European Union for digital products and services, including websites, apps, and e-commerce platforms. By June 2025, businesses providing digital services in the EU – regardless of where they’re based – must comply with these requirements to avoid penalties and ensure accessibility for all users. 

While the requirements draw from the WCAG, they differ slightly. This means it’s all the more important to make the EAA’s requirements the standard to adhere to in order to ensure compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions about the European Accessibility Act

Other International Regulations

Many countries have enacted their own accessibility laws, often aligning with WCAG guidelines:

• Canada: The Accessible Canada Act (ACA) requires digital accessibility compliance for federally regulated industries.
• United Kingdom: The Equality Act 2010 includes web accessibility as part of its anti-discrimination mandates.

• Australia: The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) enforces digital accessibility requirements.

Benefits of accessibility for users and businesses

Besides legal compliance and ethics, accessibility is good for business. By making your website, app, and content accessible, you could reap rewards such as:

• A strong user experience: Enhancing accessibility leads to greater engagement and user satisfaction, benefiting everyone.
• More customers: Over 100 million people in the EU live with disabilities, making accessibility a significant market opportunity for your business. 
• Keeping your customers for longer: Making digital services accessible helps retain users with disabilities as well as an aging population experiencing sensory and cognitive changes.
• Less legal liability: Meeting accessibility regulations minimizes the risk of lawsuits, penalties, and costly remediation efforts.
• SEO advantages: Search engines prioritize accessible websites, improving search rankings and online visibility.
• Boosted brand image: A strong commitment to accessibility enhances your brand’s reputation and aligns with ethical business practices, resulting in more loyal customers.

Tools and resources for testing accessibility

Now you know you need to make your website and content accessible. But how do you find out how accessible your website is? Where do you even start?

The great news is that there are several tools that can help your business evaluate and enhance accessibility:

• WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool): Identifies accessibility issues on web pages.
• Axe Accessibility Checker: Carries out a full accessibility audit of your website, detecting WCAG violations in digital products.
• Color contrast analyzer: Ensures text is legible against background colors.
• Screen readers: Software that converts content into spoken word or braille. It’s useful for simulating how users with visual impairments interact with content.
• Google Lighthouse: Assesses website performance, including accessibility.

A place for all

The Internet was meant to be for everyone. Yet, millions of people still face barriers every day.

The good news is that fixing accessibility issues is easier than you think. And by making your website or app more inclusive, you’re not just avoiding legal risks – you’re expanding your audience, improving user experience, and doing what’s right.

With accessibility laws tightening and consumer expectations rising, now is the time to act.

You can easily make a start today with our Accessibility Widget – it only takes a couple of clicks. It’ll only benefit your users and your business. 

The post Accessibility 101: Here’s what you need to know about web accessibility appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

In this guide, we explain what CalOPPA is, its purpose, who needs to comply, and how to do it!

What is CalOPPA?

CalOPPA stands for the California Online Privacy Protection Act.

Effective from July 1, 2004, CalOPPA is designed to help protect the personal information of California residents and ensure that they are informed about how their information is being used by websites and online services. In 2013 the law was amended to also regulate the tracking of users.

If your website collects personal information from California residents, CalOPPA requires you to post a privacy policy on your website and make it easily accessible to website visitors. The privacy policy should outline how the information is being collected, used, and shared.

What is personal information under the California Online Privacy Protection Act?

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Personal information can include anything that can be used to identify an individual, such as:

• a name;
• address;
• email address;
• phone number;
• date of birth;
• social security number; or
• any other information that can be used to identify a person.

In addition, personal information can include information that is linked or associated with an individual, such as their browsing history, purchase history, or location data. It’s important to note that even if a piece of information on its own may not allow to identify an individual, it can still be considered personal information if it is linked to other information that can identify a person.

This means that if your website collects any personal information from California residents, even through a contact form or newsletter subscription, you are required to comply with CalOPPA.

How to Comply

Now let’s take a look at the requirements and what you need to do to comply in practice.

Post a Privacy Policy

Having a clear and accessible privacy policy is the first and most important requirement of CalOPPA.

To comply with CalOPPA, your privacy policy should include at least the following:

• The categories of personal information you collect.
• If you share this data with third parties, disclose who are these third parties.
• How users can review and request changes to their information.
• Whether you honor “Do Not Track” requests, and how you do it.
• The effective date of the policy.

This policy must be easily accessible to your website visitors, such as through a link in your website’s footer.

Handle “Do Not Track” Requests

A “Do Not Track” request (DNT) is a request that users send to websites through their browsers to ask them to stop tracking their online activity, for example via cookies. When this feature is activated through the browser’s settings, every website visited receives a Do Not Track request.

However, most websites don’t support Do Not Track requests, so even though the Do Not Track request is sent, it has no effect.

Under CalOPPA, it’s not mandatory to honor “Do Not Track” requests, but it is mandatory to disclose whether you honor them or not. If you do, then you should also explain the process.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with the California Online Privacy Protection Act can result in fines and legal action. The California Attorney General’s office can enforce CalOPPA and seek penalties of up to $2,500 per violation.

How iubenda can help

If you’re looking for an easy way to create your privacy policy for CalOPPA, then iubenda may be the solution for you.

Our Privacy and Cookie Policy Generator helps you create a customized privacy policy that you can easily add to your website, by simply copying and pasting our code.

If you don’t know where to start, our Generator comes with a handy Site Scanner, that suggests you the best configuration for your policy.

The post A guide to CalOPPA, the California Online Privacy Protection Act appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

This guide will explain what you need to know about COPPA, its main requirements, and how to comply.

What is COPPA?

• 1998: COPPA was signed into law on October 21, 1998.
• 2000: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued the COPPA Rule, effective April 21, 2000, detailing how businesses must comply with the Act.
• 2013: The FTC updated the COPPA Rule to address technological advancements.
• 2024: The Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act, informally known as COPPA 2.0, is being discussed in Congress. If enacted, it would significantly extend COPPA and build on its provisions.

Businesses that fall under COPPA are not allowed to collect and process the personal information of children under the age of 13 without parental consent.

Who Must Comply with COPPA?

According to definitions, COPPA targets operators, generally any person operating a website or online service, directing the website or online service to children, or having actual knowledge that it is collecting or maintaining personal information from a child.

COPPA applies to a broad group of operators:

• operators of commercial websites and online services directed to children under 13 that collect, use, or disclose personal information from children.
• operators of general audience websites or online services knowing they are collecting, using, or disclosing personal information from children under 13.
• operators of websites or online services that know they are collecting personal information directly from users of another website or online service directed to children.

Key Terms and Definitions

Before diving into the requirements, we need to understand some other key terms and definitions of COPPA. This will also clarify whether you need to comply with the Act.

• Personal Information: Any data collected online that allows the identification of and can be referred to an individual (‘individually identifiable information about an individual collected online’). The definition was expanded in 2013 to include geolocation, photos, videos, audio files, IP addresses, and persistent identifiers like tracking cookies.
• Website or online service: The definition includes mobile apps that send or receive information online, internet-enabled gaming platforms, plug-ins, advertising networks, internet-enabled location-based services, voice-over-internet protocol services, connected toys, or other Internet of Things devices.
• “Directed to children under 13”: A website or online service that is “Directed to children under 13” is one that appeals to a younger audience, based on a variety of factors. These factors include the subject of the website, the use of visual and audio content or animated characters, the presence of celebrities who appeal to kids, the use of child-oriented activities, and more.
• Collect: To collect personal information is to request, prompt, or encourage the submission of information, even if it’s optional; to let information be made publicly available (for example, through an open chat); or to passively track a child online.

COPPA’s Requirements for Businesses

Now that we’ve understood what COPPA is and what its keywords mean, let’s take a look at the main requirements for businesses.

1. Post a Clear and Comprehensive Privacy Notice

One of the first requirements that come into the picture is to include a Privacy Policy on your website outlining how you collect and process children’s data. To be COPPA-compliant, your notice must disclose:

• what personal information you are collecting and processing and why;
• how you are using this information and whether there are third parties involved in the processing;
• if third parties are involved, you should name each third-party operator – such as an advertising network or social network plug-in – that collects or processes children’s personal information through your site or service;
• specify that you won’t require a child to disclose more information than is reasonably necessary to participate in an activity;
• specify that parents can review their child’s personal information, ask you to delete it, and refuse to allow any further collection or use of the child’s information;
• specify that parents can agree to the collection and use of their child’s information, but still not allow disclosure to third parties unless that’s part of the service;
• what the procedures to follow to exercise their rights.

Remember that you must disclose not only your own data processing activities, but also the ones of third parties that collect children’s personal data through your website. It’s also important to make your privacy policy easy to read and accessible from every page of your website – a good idea is to add it in the footer of your site and make it prominent and hard to miss.

Find out how iubenda can help!

iubenda can support you in creating a privacy policy in line with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, in just a few clicks.

1. Scan your website. We identify the clauses that you may need to add to your document.
2. Select the COPPA-dedicated clause: “This Service is directed to children under the age of 13”.
3. Add custom clauses to meet legal transparency and disclosure requirements.
4. Save your document and add it to your website!

Start now

2. Provide Direct Notice to Parents and Obtain Verifiable Parental Consent

As we said at the beginning, you can’t collect information from children without parental consent. Before collecting children’s personal information, COPPA requires you to show parents a direct notice, which explains:

• that you collected their online contact information to get their consent;
• that you want to collect personal information from their child;
• that their consent is required for the collection, use, and disclosure of the information;
• the specific personal information you want to collect and how it might be disclosed to others;
• a link to your online privacy policy;
• how parents can give their consent; and
• that, if parents do not consent within a reasonable time, you’ll delete the parents’ online contact information from your records.

3. Get Parents’ Verifiable Consent

COPPA allows you to decide which method to use to obtain parental consent. In its Six-Step Compliance Plan, the FTC suggests that you have the parents:

• sign a consent form and send it back to you via fax, mail, or electronic scan;
• use a credit card, debit card, or other online payment system that provides notification of each separate transaction to the account holder;
• call a toll-free number staffed by trained personnel;
• connect to trained personnel via a video conference;
• provide a copy of a form of government-issued ID that you check against a database, as long as you delete the identification from your records when you finish the verification process;
• answer a series of knowledge-based challenge questions that would be difficult for someone other than the parent to answer; or
• verify a picture of a driver’s license or other photo ID submitted by the parent and then compare that photo to a second photo submitted by the parent, using facial recognition technology.

If you collect and process personal information only for internal purposes, you can use a method known as “Email plus”. With this method, you send an email to the parent and have them respond with their consent. You must send a confirmation to the parent via email, letter, or phone call. Using “email plus”, you must let the parent know they can revoke their consent anytime.

4. Honor Parents’ Ongoing Rights

Even if parents have given you permission to collect information from their children, they have rights that you should respect and allow them to exercise.

If a parent requests it, you must:

• Provide them with a way to check the personal data gathered about their kid.
• Provide them with a way to withdraw their consent and object to the use or collection of additional personal data about their child.
• Erase their child’s data.

5. Protect the Kids’ Personal Information

Finally, you must establish and maintain appropriate safeguards for the privacy, security, and integrity of any personal information you collect from children.

It’s important to collect as little information as possible and to make sure that any third parties who may collect personal information from your site have the same safeguards in place.

Keep the information only as long as necessary to fulfill your purposes, and then delete it in a secure manner.

How To Design a Website or App for Children

When you design a website or an app for kids, you need to follow specific procedures and guidelines. In fact, besides COPPA, third parties like Apple and Google also have their rules regarding apps for children that you must comply with.

Apple App Store

First of all, Apple requires you to comply with applicable law. This means that you must always provide a privacy policy and apply all the standards required by law – be it COPPA, the EU GDPR, or others.

If your app is specifically designed for kids, you should make it clear by adding terms like “For Kids” and “For Children” in the app metadata. The app will then be assigned to the Kids Category in the App Store.

Apps in the Kids Category should not include third-party analytics or third-party advertising, to grant children a safer space. Third-party analytics and contextual advertising may be permitted in some cases, but you need to make sure that these services don’t collect any information about children.

If your app has links that redirect outside the apps, or it offers purchasing opportunities, then you should put these behind a parental gate – which is not the same as the method to get parental consent.

Parental gates block the app navigation for children and require an adult to perform an action to unblock it. It could look something like this:

Google Play

Google too requires you to comply with applicable law and provide a privacy policy to your users. Moreover, if your app is designed for children, it must follow the Google Play Family Policies.

The first thing you need to do is to select your target audience in the Target Audience and Content section of the Google Play console. If your app is designed for children, select “Children” as the intended audience. Google will ask you to provide details about the app’s target age group and content.

As for Apple, personalized or behavioral advertising is prohibited in apps directed to children and in-app purchases should be designed to avoid the exploitation of children.

There is no parental gate requirement for Android apps, but Google encourages app developers to add parental control features.

Websites

As mentioned earlier, websites must include a privacy policy that complies with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). According to the COPPA Rule, you must provide a clear and prominent link to your privacy policy on your homepage or landing page, and in any areas of your site where you collect personal information from children.

If your website is aimed at both a general audience and children, you can have a single privacy policy that covers all requirements. However, be sure to include a specific section within the policy that addresses COPPA and children’s privacy. On pages of your site that are designed for children, link directly to this section rather than to the general privacy policy.

COPPA Compliance Checklist

Let’s recap how to make your website or app compliant with COPPA:

Create a clear and comprehensive privacy policy. It should explain what data you’re collecting from children and why, whether there are third parties involved in the processing, and what rights parents have regarding their children’s data.

Give parents a direct notice to collect their consent, before collecting children’s personal information. The notice should summarize the information contained in the privacy policy and link to the main document.

Get parents’ verifiable consent. You can use the method you want, as long as it’s effective and allows you to verify that the consent was truly granted by the parents.

For apps, choose the appropriate category in the app stores (“For Kids”) and implement additional layers of security, as required by Apple and Google guidelines (parental gate or parental control features). Block targeted advertising.

Honor parents’ rights. Parents have ongoing rights, that they can exercise at any moment.

Protect the kid’s personal information. Make sure you and the third parties have appropriate security measures in place.

Penalties and Enforcement

Since COPPA is a federal law, its enforcement is regulated by the Federal Trade Commission. Civil penalties for COPPA violations can go up to $51,744 per violation, depending on what happened. There have been cases where the fines have reached millions of dollars.

For example, in 2023 Microsoft agreed to a civil penalty of $20 millions, because they were collecting the personal information of children who signed up for the Xbox gaming system without parental consent.

You can report COPPA violations from this FTC website.

Comparison of COPPA with Other U.S. Privacy Laws

The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is part of the complex landscape of privacy laws in the United States. But while laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) or the Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act (VCDPA) generally have a state-wide scope, COPPA is a federal law that applies throughout the United States.

Another key difference is the target of these laws. COPPA specifically protects children under 13, while State laws safeguard all consumers who are residents of the specific state.

In the table below, we’ve gathered the main differences, but you can read a complete overview here: US State Privacy Laws Overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

Here below you’ll find a list of helpful resources to help you with COPPA compliance.

The post What is COPPA? An In-Depth Guide to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

Opt-in vs Opt-out

The concept itself isn’t too hard to understand.

Opt-in meaning

“Opt-in” is the process used to describe when an affirmative action is required to subscribe a user to something, such as a newsletter list. In an opt-in system, explicit action is needed from the user to indicate their willingness to be included.

Examples of opt-in systems are the EU ePrivacy Directive, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), or the Brazilian Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados Pessoais (LGPD).

Examples of opt-in

Let’s take the GDPR as a reference. As we said, the GDPR uses an opt-in approach, and – when consent is needed – it must be “freely given, specific, informed and unambiguous”. That’s why the regulation specifically forbids pre-ticked boxes and similar opt-out mechanisms.

Newsletter and Marketing Emails

If you have a newsletter or send marketing emails, your users should either enter their email addresses or check a specific box to receive them. Remember not to pre-select the boxes, and have a checkbox for each specific consent you require. For example, you should not combine consent for your Terms and Conditions and your newsletter. You may use two separate boxes.

Cookie consent

The EU ePrivacy Directive also requires explicit opt-in consent to install cookies. This is usually done via a cookie consent banner, which is shown on the user’s first visit to your website. Without explicit consent, you may only use technical cookies.

Opt-out meaning

On the other hand, opt-out means that a user can be included in something without prior consent, but you need to provide them with an easy way out. So, users can withdraw their consent at any time.

Examples of opt-out systems are the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP), even though there are some exceptions when opt-in consent is required.

Examples of opt-out

Unsubscribe link

One common example of opt-out is the Unsubscribe link you can find at the bottom of newsletters.

Under certain regulations, like the US CAN-Spam Act, you can send your users commercial emails without the need for any action on their part. However, you must always provide them with an Unsubscribe link, so they can easily stop any further communication if they wish to.

The unsubscribe option should be free, not require a login process, and be honored within 10 days.

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information Link

Another example of opt-out is the ‘Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information’ link required under California’s CCPA. Under the CCPA, a “sale” is broadly defined and includes any exchange of personal information for valuable consideration, not just monetary transactions. For example, the use of tracking cookies for advertising can be considered a sale.

The “Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information” link should also come with a notice designed to inform consumers of their right to opt out of the sale and sharing of their personal data. It should be placed on your homepage and in your privacy policy.

What’s the difference between opt-in and opt-out?

The difference between opt-in and opt-out lies in the initial consent process. Opt-in requires proactive consent from the user, while opt-out assumes consent until the user withdraws it.

How you sign up your users for direct marketing, and the specific privacy disclosures you must provide, depends on where these individuals reside.

When are opt-in and opt-out needed?

As we said in the previous paragraph, the choice between opt-in and opt-out depends on the location of your users.

If you’re targeting EU-based users, it’s safe to assume that you’ll need to get consent from your users before any marketing activity (direct email marketing, newsletters, use of tracking cookies, etc.).

On the other hand, if your users are based in the US, you can generally rely on opt-out mechanisms, such as the Unsubscribe or ‘Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information’ links.

Of course, these are just a few examples, and we recommend checking your law of reference before choosing between opt in vs opt out.

How to implement opt-in and opt-out

Cookie Consent Banner

The first thing you need to opt your users in is a cookie consent banner. A cookie banner is a notice displayed to users the first time they visit your site. A cookie banner allows users to accept or reject consent for cookies and to manage their preferences. If a user rejects cookies, you need to block them from running.

Create a cookie banner with iubenda

iubenda helps you create a customizable cookie banner, that automatically adapts its behavior to the location of your users. So if your users are based in the EU, it will apply an opt-in approach, while if they’re based in the US an opt-out one.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Start the configuration and answer a few questions. Our Generator will automatically apply the best configuration for you.
2. Customize the look of your cookie banner to match your brand.
3. Add it to your website, and you’re done!

Make your forms GDPR-compliant

As previously mentioned, your forms must align with GDPR’s consent requirements: freely given, specific, informed, and unambiguous. Here’s how to do it:

• Use clear and straightforward language.
• Avoid pre-ticked checkboxes.
• Separate different consent requests.
• Make it easy to withdraw consent.

Remember that it’s also essential to keep consent records to track all opt-in and opt-out requests.

Unsubscribe link

Adding an Unsubscribe link to your newsletter is quite simple because most email marketing platforms provide an automated way to include it.

If you want to do it manually, you first need to create a page where your users will land once they click on the link. Then you need to add the link to the footer of your emails.

The link should redirect your users to the landing page and allow them to opt out, without the need to log in again or add any additional information.

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information Link

If the CCPA applies to you, you must provide, among others, a “Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information” link. This link is typically placed in the footer of a website so that your users can opt out at any time.

The post Opt-In vs Opt-Out: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

The EU AI Act has been agreed upon by the European Parliament and the European Council, marking a pivotal moment in the governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within Europe. 

The EU AI Act serves as a cornerstone in shaping the future of AI, ensuring that its development and deployment align with the core values of safety, ethics, and transparency across the European Union. Learn more about it below

Historical Context of the AI Act

The road to the EU AI Act has been a journey marked by significant milestones in the world of AI. This journey began as AI technologies started permeating every aspect of our lives, from healthcare to transportation. The EU’s response to these advancements was initially in the form of guidelines and recommendations, but the growing influence of AI called for more robust governance. 

The AI Act is a response to this need, emerging from a background of thoughtful deliberation and previous directives that sought to balance innovation with ethical considerations.

EU AI Act Unacceptable Risk

AI systems that are categorized as posing an unacceptable risk will be prohibited under the EU AI Act. These systems are deemed hazardous to individuals and include:

However, the Act does make provisions for certain exceptions, primarily for law enforcement purposes. Real-time remote biometric identification can be used in a limited scope, specifically for grave cases. Additionally, post-event remote biometric identification, which is used after a delay, is permitted for investigating serious criminal offenses, but only with prior judicial authorization.

These regulations are part of the EU’s effort to balance the advancement of AI technology with the protection of individual rights and safety. 

EU AI Act High Risk

AI systems that are determined to have a potentially negative impact on safety or fundamental human rights are categorized as high risk under the EU AI Act. These high-risk AI systems are subdivided into two distinct groups:

Every AI system classified as high risk will undergo a thorough evaluation process before being allowed on the market. Furthermore, their performance and compliance with regulations will be continually monitored throughout their operational life.

This structured approach towards high-risk AI systems is part of the EU’s broader strategy to ensure that AI development and deployment are conducted in a manner that is safe and respects the rights and freedoms of individuals. For a more comprehensive understanding of these classifications and regulations, it’s advisable to refer to official EU documentation or legal analyses on the subject.

See How to Comply for high risk AI Systems under the EU AI Act →

EU AI Act Limited Risk

AI systems classified as having limited risk are required to adhere to basic transparency measures. These measures are designed to ensure users can recognize when they are interacting with AI and make informed choices about their continued use of these applications. 

Particularly, this includes AI-generated or manipulated content like images, audio, or video, such as those created by deepfake technology. The goal is to foster an environment where users are aware of AI involvement, allowing them to make more conscious decisions regarding their engagement with these technologies.

EU AI Act Minimal Risk

Applications like spam filters and video games are considered to have minimal risk. Therefore, they are not subjected to additional regulatory oversight.

Compliance and Transparency Requirements for General Purpose and Generative AI

In the context of the EU AI Act, both general-purpose and generative AI systems, including platforms like ChatGPT, are subject to specific transparency obligations. These requirements include:

Moreover, AI models that are more advanced and have a significant impact, such as GPT-4, are required to undergo extensive evaluations. In the case of any serious incidents arising from these systems, it is mandatory to report these incidents to the European Commission. This is part of the broader effort to monitor and regulate AI systems that could potentially pose systemic risks.

These measures are in place to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of AI, particularly in instances where these technologies have a wide-reaching impact or pose potential risks. For further details on these regulations and their implications, it’s recommended to review the official documentation or authoritative sources on the EU AI Act.

How to Comply for high risk AI Systems

The EU AI Act establishes a comprehensive set of compliance measures for AI systems deemed high-risk, covering various stages from design and implementation to post-market introduction. These regulations encompass:

While AI systems identified as having limited risk are not subjected to the same stringent compliance checks, such as conformity assessments or product safety reviews, they are still evaluated based on similar criteria to ensure they meet the necessary transparency and safety standards.

These regulatory requirements are integral to ensuring that high-risk AI systems operate safely, ethically, and transparently, aligning with the broader objectives of the EU AI Act to safeguard user rights and public safety. For a deeper understanding of these compliance requirements, it’s advisable to consult the official text of the EU AI Act or related legal resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post A Detailed Look at the EU AI Act appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

From December 2023, the EU Whistleblower Directive requires all EU organizations with 50+ employees (including EU branches) to establish a confidential internal whistleblowing channel.

Implementing a channel that is safe and anonymous is crucial to comply with this regulation. However, there are many technical challenges you can face as a business when implementing whistleblowing procedures. This article explores how technology is empowering companies to build secure, efficient, and user-friendly whistleblowing systems. Let’s dive in!

Challenges for Businesses to Implement Whistleblowing Systems

• Technical Challenges: Ensuring seamless integration of the whistleblowing system with existing IT infrastructure can be complex. Additionally, maintaining the system’s security against threats like cyberattacks or breaches requires constant vigilance and updates.
• Retaliation Concerns: Despite technological safeguards, the fear of retaliation remains a significant deterrent for potential whistleblowers. Creating a culture that supports and protects whistleblowers is paramount.
• Legal and Compliance Issues: Navigating the various legal requirements, especially for multinational corporations, can be daunting. Ensuring compliance with different countries’ laws while maintaining a standard system is challenging.
• Training and Adoption: Encouraging employees to use the system effectively requires comprehensive training. Overcoming resistance to new technologies and processes can be a significant hurdle.
• Ensuring Trust: Have potential whistleblowers trust that the system is truly secure and anonymous is crucial.

Over time, whistleblowing has been fraught with challenges, including retaliation against the whistleblower or the risk of sensitive information being mishandled. However, with the advent of advanced technology, the landscape is changing.

How Technology Improves Whistleblowing Systems

Anonymity and Confidentiality

One of the biggest fears for potential whistleblowers is the risk of being identified and facing retaliation. This means that commonly-used corporate communication channels like phone, email or instant messaging cannot be used. Luckily, modern digital platforms are available and offer robust encryption and anonymity features.

Accessibility and Ease of Use

Technology has made it possible to create user-friendly reporting channels accessible from anywhere, at any time. Mobile apps and online portals allow employees to report concerns discreetly and conveniently, encouraging more individuals to come forward.

Reports Management and Tracking

Once a report is filed, it’s crucial to manage it effectively. Technological solutions can help you track the progress of an investigation, maintain records, and ensure timely resolution of reported issues.

Data Protection

Protecting sensitive information is paramount in whistleblowing systems. Technology, including firewalls or antivirus software, safeguard the data against unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Global Reach

For multinational corporations, ensuring compliance across different legal jurisdictions is challenging. Whistleblowing systems can be adapted for different languages and legal requirements, making them versatile tools for global operations.

iubenda’s Whistleblowing Management Tool

iubenda’s Whistleblowing Management Tool is your powerful ally in providing your employees with a secure platform for internal reporting, in no time!

It consists of a form and dashboard to simply the process of submitting and managing whistleblowers’ reports through a dedicated channel. Our product aims to streamline management within organizations, protect whistleblowers, and ensure businesses consistently adhere to the law.

Want more detail on how iubenda can help? Check out our dedicated guide.

The post How Technology Helps Businesses Build Effective Whistleblowing Systems appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

The Whistleblower Directive serves as a critical tool in order to set robust protections for employees and other stakeholders who step forward to report wrongdoings. As a business, this should matter to you for two reasons: complying with legal requirements and maintaining a safe environment with integrity.

The Whistleblower Directive: At a Glance

What is the EU Whistleblower Directive?

The Directive (EU) 2019/1937 on the protection of individuals who report breaches (wrongdoing or misconduct) of Union law, also known as the “Whistleblower Directive”, was adopted on October 23, 2019, and entered into force on December 16, 2019.

It sets minimum standards for the protection of whistleblowers across the European Union and requires all EU Member States to implement measures, within national legal frameworks.

Who can be defined as a “whistleblower”?

Whistleblowers are reporting persons working in the private or public sector who acquired information on breaches (wrongdoing, misconduct or violation of EU law) in a work-related context. It can be, amongst others:

• Employees;
• Contractors or subcontractors;
• Suppliers;
• Volunteers;
• Paid/unpaid trainees;
• Job applicants.

What type of violation can be reported?

Whistleblowers can report a wide range of issues in several areas, such as:

Protection of privacy and personal data
Consumer protection
Violations of company policies and procedures
Financial misconduct
Money laundering and terrorist financing
Fraud
Network and information system security
Harassment or discrimination
Safety concerns (product, food, transportation)
Public health or animal health and welfare concerns
Environmental issues

Who has to comply with the Whistleblower Directive?

The following organizations must comply:

• Public and private entities with 50 or more employees;
• All state, regional administrations, and municipal administrations with over 10,000 inhabitants.

Even if your company is based outside the EU, if you have a presence (i.e. branch) in a Member State of the EU and employ at least 50 employees, you are also subject to the Directive and relevant national legislation.

How to Implement Robust Whistleblower Protection Measures

There are a number of protection measures you need to take in order to comply with the Whistleblower Directive and make sure the rights of individuals in this regard are honored. We have listed 4 below.

Some legal penalties are imposed on companies that are not compliant with the directive. On top of that, there is a potential risk for your reputation and customer trust, which in turn can strongly impact your business. Keep reading to see what you can do!

Establish an Internal Reporting Channel

In short, you need a way for employees and other stakeholders to report wrongdoing directly, in a confidential and secure way. You can do that by putting in place a process such as an internal reporting channel. This channel must:

Ensure confidentiality of the reporting person’s identity (and that of any third party mentioned in the report);
Prevent access from non-authorized staff;
Acknowledge receipt within 7 days;
Provide feedback in a timely manner, within 3 months;
Designate an impartial person/department to handle reports;
Allow different means of reporting (writing, orally, in person);
Keep records for no longer than necessary to comply with legal requirements.

See how you can do this here.

Provide Training for Reporting Persons

Another measure you should implement is to properly inform any potential reporting individual, such as employees, of their rights and protections deriving from the directive.

It goes without saying, you should also give necessary training on how your reporting process works.

Learn more about this measure here.

Keep Whistleblowers’ Information Confidential

Anonymity is key when handling whistleblowers’ reports. This is tightly linked to the next measure on preventing retaliation.

In a nutshell, the identity of whistleblowers cannot be disclosed without their explicit agreement. This means that you should keep their data confidential. As always, compliance with data protection laws like the GDPR is crucial.

Prevent Retaliation

This step requires you to implement robust legal measures to shield whistleblowers from backlash.

Companies must show that they are proactive on this matter, by putting an anti-retaliation policy in place, conducting internal investigations and supporting whistleblowers who do face retaliation.

Easily Manage Whistleblower Reports with iubenda

Leverage technology to implement whistleblowing systems in no time!

iubenda’s Whistleblowing Management Tool helps companies set up a reporting channel to comply with the Whistleblower Directive in no time and with low effort! It consists of a form and dashboard to simplify the process of submitting and managing whistleblowers’ reports through a dedicated channel.

With iubenda’s secure platform for internal reporting, bypass the limitations tied to other traditional reporting channels like phone or email, and easily meet the technical requirements mentioned above:

Quick form setup
Guaranteed anonymity and confidentiality for whistleblowers
All-in-one dashboard to centralize reports and processes
Guided, standardized process for reporting
Instant acknowledgement mechanism upon receipt

The post How to Implement Whistleblower Protections in Your Organization appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

What does GDPR stand for

GDPR stands for General Data Protection Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2016/679) and at its most basic, it specifies how personal data should be lawfully processed (including how it’s collected, used, protected or interacted with in general). The EU GDPR became fully enforceable on May 25th, 2018.

What is GDPR

This regulation is intended to strengthen data protection for all people whose personal information fall within its scope of application, putting personal data control back into their hands.

Who does the GDPR apply to

The GDPR can apply to:

• An entity that bases its operations in the EU (whether the processing takes place in the EU or not).
• An entity that is not established in the EU, but offers goods or services (even for free) to people in the EU. The entity can be government agencies, private/public companies, individuals, and non-profits.
• An entity that is not established in the EU but monitors the behavior of people who are in the EU, provided that such behavior takes place in the EU.

Where does it apply

This scope effectively covers almost all companies and, therefore, means that the GDPR can apply to you whether your organization is based in the EU or not. As a matter of fact, this PwC survey showed that GDPR compliance is a top data protection priority for up to 92% of US companies surveyed.

The GDPR can apply to you whether your organization is based in the EU or not

A common misconception is that only EU users are covered by the protections of the GDPR. However, the protections of the GDPR also extend to users outside the EU if the data controller is EU-based. Therefore, if you are an EU-based data controller, the GDPR requirements apply to you and you must, by default, apply GDPR standards to ALL your users.

When does it not apply

The conditions of applicability of the GDPR are set in GDPR text Articles 2 & 3 from a material and a territorial point of view. To determine, whether a specific processing activity is exempt from its applicability, we have to consider both aspects.

GDPR compliance: Material point of view

The EU GDPR applies to the processing of personal data. Therefore, it does not apply to company data, such as a company name and address. Be careful here, however, because normally “natural persons” work in a company, any data referring to them would, therefore, be deemed “personal”, regardless of whether they are processed in a Business to Customer (B2C) or Business to Business (B2B) context.

GDPR compliance: Territorial point of view

We’ve already mentioned under which conditions the GDPR applies from a territorial point of view.

Let’s take a look at some practical examples:

Main requirements for GDPR compliance

We have listed below the main requirements that organizations should meet in order to comply with the GDPR. It’s not an easy task. That’s why we have crafted GDPR-compliant legal software solutions to help you speed out and simplify the process. Jump to this section to learn more.

1. Legal basis for processing data

According to GDPR compliance, data can only be processed if there’s at least one legal basis for doing so.

The legal bases are:

• The user has given consent for one or more specific purposes.
• The data processing is necessary for the performance of a contract in which the user is a participant or necessary in order to take steps (requested by the user) prior to entering the contract.
• The processing is necessary for fulfilling a legal obligation to which the data controller is subject.
• The processing is necessary for protecting the vital interests of the user or of another person.
• The processing is necessary for performing a task carried out in the interest of the public or as contained under the official authority given to the data controller.
• The processing is necessary for the legitimate interests of the data controller or third party, except where overridden by the interests, rights and freedoms of the user, in particular where the user is a child.

2. Consent

GDPR requirements dictate that if relying on the legal basis of consent, data controllers must get verifiable consent from users.

In general, when getting consent for data processing, organizations should not use overly complicated terms. This includes legalese and unnecessary jargon. This indicates that terms and privacy policies should be laid out legibly (see ours here) using understandable language and clauses so that users are fully aware of what they’re consenting to and what the consequences of their consent are.

Organizations must be transparent on the purpose of the data collection and consent must be “explicit and freely given”. This means that the mechanism for acquiring consent must be unambiguous and involve a clear “opt-in” action (the regulation specifically forbids pre-ticked boxes and similar “opt-out” mechanisms).

The regulation also gives a specific right to withdraw consent; it must, therefore, be as easy to withdraw consent as it is to give it.

Consent for children

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In regards to Consent for children, organizations are required to get verifiable consent from a parent or guardian unless the service being offered is a preventative or counseling service. Organizations must make reasonable efforts (using available technology) to verify that the person giving consent actually holds parental responsibility for the child.

Keep GDPR records of consent

Consent is such an important issue under the GDPR and it’s mandatory that you’re able to demonstrate that the user has given consent; should problems arise, the burden of proof lies with the data controller, so keeping accurate records is vital.

To achieve GDPR compliance, your consent records should include:

• who provided the consent;
• when and how consent was acquired from the individual user;
• the consent collection form they were presented with at the time of the collection;
• which conditions and legal documents were applicable at the time that the consent was acquired.

Check this out for an example of compliant record-keeping vs non-compliant record-keeping:

Maintaining valid records, while mandatory, can be a technical challenge. Our Consent Database simplifies this process, making it easy for you to view, manage and export your recorded consents. You can read more about it here.

Cookies and the GDPR

Another EU law worth mentioning here is the ePrivacy Directive (also known as the Cookie Law). This law still applies as it has not been repealed by the GDPR. In future, the ePrivacy Directive will be replaced by the ePrivacy Regulation and as such, will work alongside the GDPR; the upcoming regulation is expected to still uphold the same values ​​as the directive.

The Cookie Law requires users’ informed consent before storing cookies on a user’s device and tracking them.

Everything you should know in this guide: Cookies and the GDPR: What’s Really Required?

Want to learn more about which EU cookie consent rules apply on a per-country basis? Check out our Cookie Consent Cheatsheet.

3. Users’ rights

The GDPR text significantly enhances users’ rights over their personal data within the EU. It empowers individuals with greater control and transparency over their information and providing rights such as access, rectification, erasure, and data portability among others. Let’s take a look at each of them.

The right to be informed

Organizations must provide users with information about the data processing activities they carry out. Such information should be provided at the time at which personal data is obtained, typically via a privacy notice/policy.

The information must be concise, transparent, intelligible, easily accessible, written in clear and plain language (especially if addressed to a child), and free of charge.

The right to access

Users have the right to access the data and information about how their personal data is being processed. GDPR compliance dictates that should a user request it, data controllers must provide an overview of the categories of data being processed, a copy of the actual data, and details about the processing. The details should include the purpose, how the data was acquired, and with whom it was shared.

The right to access is closely linked to the right to data portability, but these two rights are different. It is therefore important that in your privacy policy, there is a clear distinction between the two.

The right to rectification

Users have the right to have their personal data rectified if it is inaccurate or incomplete.

This right also implies that rectification must be disclosed to any and all third-party recipients involved in the processing of the data in question – unless doing so is impossible or disproportionately difficult. If requested by the user, the organization must also inform them about these third-party recipients.

The right to object

Under the GDPR text, users have the right to object to certain processing activities in relation to their personal data carried out by the controller.

The user has to state a motivation for their objection, unless the processing is carried out for direct marketing purposes, in which case no motivation is needed to exercise this right.

The right to data portability

Users have the right to obtain (in a machine-readable format) their personal data for the purpose of transferring it from one controller to another, without being prevented from doing so by the data processor.

This right only applies to personal data and as such does not apply to genuinely anonymous data (data that can’t be linked back to the individual).

The right to erasure

When data is no longer relevant to its original purpose, or where users have withdrawn consent, or where the personal data have been unlawfully processed, users have the right to request that their data be erased.

The right to restrict processing

Users have the right to restrict the processing of their personal data in cases where:

• they’ve contested its accuracy;
• the user has objected to the processing and the organization is considering whether it has a legitimate ground which overrides this right;
• the processing is unlawful but the user requests restriction instead of erasure;
• the data is no longer needed but the user needs it to establish, exercise or defend a legal claim.

The restriction must be disclosed to any and all third-party recipients involved in the processing of the data in question – unless doing so is impossible or disproportionately difficult. If requested by the user, the organization must also inform the user about these third-party recipients.

Rights relating to automated decision-making and profiling

Users have the right to not be subjected to a decision when it is based on automated processing or profiling, and it produces a legal or a similarly significant effect on the user.

Organizations can only carry out automated decision-making if it is needed for the performance of a contract; authorized by EU state law applicable to the data controller; does not have a legal or similarly significant effect on the user; or is based on the individual’s explicit consent. You can only make automated decisions based on special category data with the explicit consent of the user or for reasons of substantial public interest.

4. Cross-border data transfers

The GDPR allows data transfers of EU resident data outside of the European Economic Area (EEA) only when in compliance with set conditions.

According to the GDPR text, the country or region the data is being transferred to must have an “adequate” level of personal data protection by EU standards, or where not considered adequate, transfers may still be allowed under the use of standard contractual clauses (SCCs) or binding corporate rules (BCRs).

Learn more about data transfers between the EU and the US.

5. Privacy by design & default

Data protection should be included from the onset of design and development of the business processes and infrastructure. This means that privacy settings should be set to ‘high’ by default and measures put into place to make sure that the processing life cycle of the data falls within the GDPR requirements.

6. Breach notification

If the organization is victim of a data breach, the data controller must notify the Supervisory Authority within 72 hours of becoming aware of it. If the processing is carried out by a processor on behalf of the controller, the data processor will have to notify the controller immediately after becoming aware of it.

Under this rule, users must also be informed of the breach (within the same time frame) unless the data breached was protected by encryption (data rendered unreadable for the intruder), or, in general, the breach is unlikely to result in a risk to individuals’ rights and freedoms.

In any case, the data controller should keep records of the breaches occurred in order to be able to demonstrate to the supervising authority compliance with these provisions.

7. Data Protection Officers

The Data Protection Officer (DPO) is a person with expert knowledge of data protection law whose role includes assisting the controller or processor in monitoring internal compliance with GDPR regulations and overseeing data protection strategy and implementation. The DPO should also be proficient in IT process management, data security and other critical issues surrounding the processing of personal and sensitive data.

8. Records of processing activities

The EU GDPR requires that both data controllers and data processors keep and maintain “full and extensive” up-to-date records of the particular data processing activities they are carrying out.

The records of processing activities must be in writing. While both paper and electronic forms are acceptable, it is best practice to use an electronic method of record-keeping so as to facilitate easy amendments.

You may find that it is, in fact, quite useful to do regular information audits on what data your organization holds as not only does this practice help you to readily meet your record-keeping obligations, but it also makes it easier for you to review and optimize your data processing procedures.

Our Register of Data Processing Activities comes in very handy here as it greatly simplifies the technical process of creating and maintaining records. Read more about how it can help here.

What records of the data processor should include:

• The name and contact details of the controller, and where applicable, the controller’s representative and DPO;
• The purpose of the processing activities;
• Description of the various categories of users and data;
• The categories of data recipients including third country (not a member of the EU) recipients or international organizations;
• Transfers of personal data to a third country and the identification of that third country or international organization, including documentation of suitable safeguards (where applicable);
• Anticipated time limits for erasure of the various categories of data (where possible);
• A general description of technical and organizational security measures (where possible).

What records of the data processor should include:

• The name and contact details of the controller and the processor acting on their behalf, and where applicable, the processor or controller’s representative and DPO;
• The categories of processing carried out on behalf of each controller;
• Transfers of personal data to a third country and the identification of that third country or international organization, including documentation of suitable safeguards (where applicable);
• Anticipated time limits for erasure of the various categories of data (where possible);
• A general description of technical and organizational security measures (where possible).

9. Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA)

A data protection impact assessment (DPIA) is a process used to help organizations comply effectively with the GDPR and ensure that the principles of accountability, privacy by design and privacy by default are put in practice by the organization.

The DPIA process should be recorded in writing. While publishing the DPIA is not a general legal requirement of the GDPR, it is suggested that data controllers consider publishing all or part of their DPIA as a gesture of transparency and accountability.

An effective DPIA is useful in meeting the requirement of “Privacy by design” as it makes it possible for organizations to find and fix issues at an early stage, thus mitigating both data security risks for users, and the risk of GDPR fines, sanctions and reputation damage that might otherwise occur to the organization.

What a DPIA should include:

• Full descriptions of the data processed;
• The purpose of the processing activity (and where applicable, information on the legitimate interests of the data controller);
• An evaluation of the scope and necessity of the processing activity in relation to the purpose;
• An assessment of the risk posed to users;
• Measures in place to address that risk.

GDPR fines: Consequences of non-compliance

The legal consequences for non-compliance can include fines up to EUR 20 million (€20m) or 4% of the annual worldwide turnover (whichever is greater), but perhaps equally as concerning are the other potential sanctions that may be implemented against organizations found to be in violation. These sanctions include official reprimands (for first-time violations), periodic data protection audits and liability damages.

The legal consequences for non-compliance can include GDPR fines up to EUR 20 million (€20m) or 4% of the annual worldwide turnover

The GDPR text also gives the explicit right to file a complaint with a supervisory authority if they feel that any processing of their personal data was done in violation of GDPR regulations and the right to compensation for any damages resulting from an organization’s non-compliance with regulations, hereby leaving violators open to potential litigation.

GDPR Compliance FAQs

What does GDPR mean in simple terms?

In simple terms, GDPR stands for General Data Protection Regulation, which is a comprehensive data protection and privacy law in the European Union (EU). It was introduced to enhance the privacy and protection of personal data of EU citizens and residents. The regulation became enforceable on May 25, 2018, replacing the Data Protection Directive of 1995.

What are the 7 principles of GDPR?

The 7 principles of GDPR are lawfulness/fairness/transparency, purpose limitation, data minimization, accuracy, storage limitations, integrity/confidentiality, and accountability. They guide the processing of personal data and ensure the protection and privacy of individuals’ data. The 7 principles of GDPR are as follows:

1. Lawfulness, Fairness, and Transparency: The processing of personal data must have a legitimate basis and be conducted in a fair and transparent manner. Data subjects should be informed about the purposes of data processing and any other relevant information regarding their data.
2. Purpose Limitation: Personal data should be collected for specified, explicit, and legitimate purposes. Organizations must ensure that the data they collect is used only for the purposes for which it was originally collected. If they intend to use the data for additional purposes, they need to obtain explicit consent for this.
3. Data Minimization: GDPR emphasizes that personal data should be adequate, relevant, and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which it is processed. This means that organizations should avoid collecting excessive data and should retain only the minimum amount of data required to achieve their stated objectives.
4. Accuracy: Highlights the importance of keeping personal data accurate and up-to-date. Organizations are responsible for taking reasonable steps to ensure that the data they hold is accurate, and if any inaccuracies are identified, they should be rectified promptly.
5. Storage Limitations: The data you store should be up-to-date, but you can’t store it forever. The GDPR text requires that you set a time limit – the shortest possible – and that you explain why you need to store your users’ data for that period of time. When the time comes, you must erase or review the data you stored.
6. Integrity and Confidentiality: Store your users’ data securely, protecting them from unlawful processing or accidental loss, destruction or damage. You should also protect your users’ identity, through anonymization, for instance.
7. Accountability: Keep records relating to which data you collect, its purpose, all parties involved in its processing and the data retention period. This is mandatory for everyone.

What is a GDPR compliance?

In short, GDPR compliance refers to adhering to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), a set of data protection laws implemented by the European Union (EU).

GDPR sets guidelines and regulations on how personal data of individuals within the EU should be collected, processed, stored, and protected by organizations.

Achieving GDPR compliance involves implementing necessary measures to ensure the privacy and security of personal data, obtaining explicit consent from individuals, providing transparency in data handling practices, appointing data protection officers (DPOs), and promptly addressing data breaches. Non-compliance can result in significant penalties.

Is GDPR compliance mandatory in USA?

No, GDPR compliance is not mandatory in the United States by default.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a regulation implemented by the European Union (EU) and primarily applies to organizations that collect, process, or store personal data of individuals within the EU. However, some US-based companies may need to comply with GDPR if they handle the personal data of EU residents.

This can occur when offering goods or services to EU individuals or monitoring their behavior. It is advisable for US companies to assess their data processing activities and consult legal experts to determine if GDPR compliance is required for their specific situation. Additionally, the US has its own data protection regulations, such as the California’s CCPA/CPRA, which may apply to businesses operating within that state.

GDPR overview

How to comply with GDPR

We’ve created a useful checklist on how to comply with GDPR and the Cookie Law, since they go hand in hand for compliance in Europe. Keep reading!

The GDPR applies to you if you’re based in the EU (+ UK), or if you target EU (+ UK) users. The ePrivacy Directive (or Cookie Law) applies to most websites that can be accessed by EU users and that run cookies, trackers or similar technologies.

Simplify your GDPR compliance with iubenda

At iubenda, we take a comprehensive approach to GDPR compliance. We built our compliance solutions with the strictest regulations in mind, giving you full options to customize as needed. This way, we’ll assist you with meeting your legal obligations, reduce your risk of litigation and protect your customers —building trust and credibility.

And, wait for it: our solutions are made to simplify and speed up your compliance journey!

Please note that privacy laws are usually amended and updated. It’s therefore important to ensure that your policies meet the latest requirements. For this reason, we use dynamic embedding and NOT copy & paste. With this method, you can rest assured that your policy is up to date and being maintained remotely by our legal team.

Here’s what you need to get started with full GDPR compliance:

See also

• Read more about global legislation with our legal overview, our ePrivacy (Cookie Law) guide, or our guide on US law
• Full GDPR text
• Read our service-specific articles for app creators , e-commerce websites
• Have a specific scenario in mind? Check out our comprehensive guides on email newsletters, our guides for services directed to children or our guide on when Terms and Conditions are needed.
• Using Google services? Read our guides on Google Analytics, Adsense and Ads

The post What is the GDPR? The Ultimate Guide to GDPR Compliance appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of international whistleblowing laws, with a specific focus on the EU Whistleblower Directive, and highlights best practices for businesses.

Importance of Whistleblowing Laws

Whistleblowing serves as an important mechanism to expose fraud, corruption, and other unethical practices within organizations. By encouraging employees to report misconduct, businesses can address issues promptly, prevent financial losses, protect their reputation, and foster a culture of integrity. Whistleblowing also helps in detecting regulatory violations and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.

For a more detailed overview on Whistleblowing, see here →

International Whistleblowing Laws

In the European Union, the new EU Whistleblower Directive has been introduced, mandating each member country to incorporate it into their national legal frameworks. See the EU whistle blow Directive Breakdown below

Whistleblowing laws in the United States encompass a range of federal, state, and local statutes designed to encourage and protect individuals who expose illegal or unethical activities within organizations. Key features of these laws include confidential handling of disclosures, financial awards, and independent reporting channels. Some notable laws include:

Whistleblowing laws in Asia reflect a diverse and evolving legal landscape, shaped by cultural, regulatory, and economic factors. Here’s an overview of the current state of whistleblowing laws and practices in various Asian countries:

Overall, the Asian region shows a growing recognition of the importance of whistleblowing in corporate governance and compliance, with increasing efforts to provide legal protections and incentives for whistleblowers. However, cultural and hierarchical norms often present challenges, and there is still significant variation in the effectiveness and scope of whistleblower laws across different countries.

Whistleblower Directive Breakdown 

Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council, on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law, also known as the “Whistleblower Directive”, was adopted on October 23, 2019, and entered into force on December 16, 2019.

Who has to comply with the Whistleblower Directive?

All public legal entities and private companies with more than 50 employees based in the European Union (and municipalities with more than 10,000 inhabitants) are required to comply with the obligation to establish an internal reporting channel.

Important date: By December 17, 2023, private sector legal entities with 50 to 249 employees, are required to establish and activate an internal reporting channel to receive reports

The directive sets minimum standards for the protection of whistleblowers across the European Union and requires all EU Member States to implement corresponding national legal frameworks 

Austria: Implemented – Austria’s “HinweisgeberInnnenschutzgesetz” (HSchG) was approved in February 2023, transposing the EU Whistleblowing Directive. The law came into force on February 25, 2023, allowing a six-month transition period for entities with 250 or more employees to establish internal whistleblowing systems.

Belgium: Implemented – Belgium’s Chamber of Representatives passed a bill in 2023 to protect whistleblowers, translating the EU Whistleblowing Directive into Belgian law. The law is set to come into force in 2023.

Bulgaria: Implemented – Bulgaria approved its whistleblowing law in January 2023, aligning with the EU Whistleblowing Directive. The law, effective from May 4, 2023, includes provisions for employers in the private sector with 50 to 249 employees, applicable from December 17, 2023.

Croatia: Implemented – Croatia adopted the “Croatian Whistleblower Protection Act” in late 2022, addressing loopholes and incorporating extended mechanisms to comply with the EU Whistleblowing Directive.

Cyprus: Implemented – Cyprus transposed the EU Whistleblowing Directive on February 4, 2022, introducing new reporting provisions and protective measures for whistleblowers in the private and public sectors.

Czech Republic: Implemented – The Czech Republic passed a new Whistleblower Act in June 2023, transposing the EU Whistleblowing Directive, effective from August 1, 2023.

Denmark: Implemented – Denmark passed the Whistleblower Protection Act in June 2021, making it the first EU member state to implement the EU Whistleblowing Directive into national law.

Estonia: In progress – Estonia’s transposition process is ongoing, with a protection bill passing the first reading in 2022. Delays and criticism have complicated the process.

Finland: Implemented – Finland transposed the EU Whistleblowing Directive, with the new legislation effective from January 1, 2023. It enhances protection for whistleblowers and mandates internal reporting channels for eligible entities.

France: Implemented – France passed a law in March 2022, amending the existing Sapin 2 law to align with the EU Whistleblowing Directive, covering entities with 50 or more employees.

Germany: Implemented – Germany’s Whistleblower Protection Act came into force in July 2023 after initial rejection in February 2023. The act aims to protect whistleblowers and ensure transparency.

Greece: Implemented – Greece’s draft whistleblower protection legislation, submitted in October 2022, was passed in November 2022 and is now in force, with different implementation dates for compliance measures.

Hungary: Implemented – Hungary passed the Whistleblower Protection Act in May 2023, completing the transposition process.

Ireland: Implemented – Ireland transposed the EU Whistleblowing Directive in July 2022, extending protection and introducing formal reporting channels, effective from January 1, 2023.

Italy: Implemented – Italy approved a delegation law in March 2023, completing the transposition process for the Whistleblowing Directive.

Latvia: Implemented – Latvia transposed the EU Whistleblowing Directive in January 2022, with new measures effective from February 4, 2022.

Lithuania: Implemented – Lithuania amended existing legislation in February 2022, aligning with the EU Whistleblowing Directive.

Luxembourg: Implemented – Luxembourg’s Whistleblower Protection Act, passed in May 2023, exceeds the minimum directive requirements, offering broad protection and a support point for whistleblowers.

Malta: Implemented – Malta amended the Whistleblower Act in December 2021, enhancing protection for whistleblowers in compliance with the EU Whistleblowing Directive.

The Netherlands Implemented – The Netherlands transposed the directive in January 2023, introducing updated whistleblowing procedures and the appointment of an independent reporting body.

Poland: In progress – Poland is evaluating a new law, the draft Act on the Protection of Persons Who Report Breaches of Law, to meet the requirements of the EU Whistleblowing Directive.

Portugal: Implemented – Portugal implemented the directive in December 2021, with new measures effective from June 18, 2022.

 Romania: Implemented – Romania adopted an improved version of its national whistleblowing law in December 2022, aligning with the EU Whistleblowing Directive.

 Slovakia: Implemented – Slovakia passed the Whistleblower Law in May 2023, enhancing existing measures to align with the EU Whistleblowing Directive.

 Slovenia: Implemented – Slovenia passed the Whistleblower Protection Act in January 2023, broadening protection to comply with the EU Whistleblowing Directive.

 Spain:  Implemented – Spain approved new whistleblower protection legislation in February 2023, completing the transposition process.

 Sweden: Implemented – Sweden transposed the directive in September 2021, rectifying flaws in existing measures to guarantee anonymity and confidentiality.

Did you know iubenda has a tailored made tool for the EU Whistleblower Directive?

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This tool helps keep you compliant with a secure channel for submitting and managing whistleblower reports. Maintain an easy-to-use reporting form for employees and other stakeholders, and manage the whole process from an all-in-one dashboard.

Click here to learn more!

Will the EU whistleblower Directive Apply Outside of the EU? 

Switzerland: Will not be implemented – no whistleblowing legislation in effect. The Swiss Code of Obligationshighlights employees’ duty of loyalty and confidentiality to their employer, which is interpreted as an obligation to report any misconduct internally first. However, Swiss law itself has not expressly provided for the establishment of internal reporting channels.

 United Kingdom: Will not be implemented – The UK, post-Brexit, is not obligated to transpose the EU Whistleblowing Directive. However, UK businesses operating in mainland Europe above a certain size are subject to the directive. The UK has its own national whistleblower protection legislation in the form of PIDA, criticized for its complexity and outdated nature.

 The Federal Trade Commission: Will not be implemented – The US adopted the whistleblower protection act (WPA) in 1989. The Act applies at the federal level and does not provide for the establishment of reporting channels in the fashion of Whistleblower Directive.

Global Organizations 

The United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) encourages member states to establish mechanisms to protect whistleblowers and provide legal safeguards.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines recommend member countries to have whistleblower protection laws in place.

What type of wrongdoing/misconduct can be reported by Whistleblowing?

Whistleblowers can report a wide range of issues in several areas, including but not limited to:

Whistleblowing Best Practices for Businesses

To navigate whistleblowing laws effectively, businesses should consider the following best practices:

Understanding the legal aspects of whistleblowing, including international laws and specific mandates like the EU Whistleblower Directive, is crucial for businesses. 

By complying with these laws and implementing best practices, organizations can foster a culture of transparency, protect whistleblowers, and effectively address misconduct. This not only ensures compliance but also enhances corporate governance, reputation, and ethical standards.

The post Navigating Whistleblowing Laws: An International Overview appeared first on Compliance Solutions for Websites, Apps and Organizations | iubenda.