Accessibility guidance

The European Union (EU) has established accessibility standards for government digital services to ensure that all citizens, including those with disabilities, have equal access to these services. To achieve this goal, it is essential to include accessibility considerations in both the design and development processes.

One way to include accessibility in the design process is to conduct user research with people with disabilities. This can help identify any usability barriers and inform the design of accessible interfaces. Additionally, designers can use accessible design principles, such as providing sufficient colour contrast, using clear and consistent navigation, and avoiding design elements that can trigger seizures.

In the development process, it is crucial to ensure that the code is accessible and adheres to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. Developers can also use automated accessibility testing tools to identify any accessibility issues and make necessary fixes. It's important to conduct manual testing with assistive technology, such as screen readers, to ensure that digital services are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

It's also important to include accessibility in the maintenance and updates of digital services. Regular accessibility audits and user testing can help ensure that digital services remain accessible over time.

By incorporating accessibility practices in both the design and development processes, government organisations can ensure that their digital services are inclusive and accessible to all citizens. This can lead to better user experiences for everyone and help fulfill the EU's accessibility standards for government digital services.