Digital accessibility
Accessibility is not a new topic in the analogue space. But how does this translate to the digital space? After all, it is crucial that online shops are truly accessible to all customers - regardless of their individual abilities or limitations. The new Accessibility Reinforcement Act (BFSG) comes into force in 2025 and sets clear standards for digital accessibility in Germany. It obliges operators of online shops to design their digital offerings in such a way that they can be easily used by people with different impairments.
Find out more about the binding new accessibility requirements and guidelines that will come into force in 2025 and which steps are important for the digital accessibility of your platform.
All directives and new laws at a glance
The first steps towards digital accessibility
Code examples for the most important front-end elements
Further links to free web tools
Concrete recommendations for action
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The whitepaper explains the fundamentals and requirements of digital accessibility for websites and digital applications. It outlines why accessible design is a core component of modern digital products. The content combines legal, technical, and user-centric perspectives. The goal is to establish a clear understanding of accessible digital experiences.
The whitepaper is aimed at decision-makers, product owners, UX designers, developers, and marketing teams. It is relevant for organizations that plan, operate, or further develop digital offerings. Roles responsible for websites, platforms, and digital services are particularly addressed.
Digital accessibility means that digital content and applications are usable by all people, regardless of physical or cognitive impairments. This includes sufficient color contrast, understandable content, keyboard operability, and support for assistive technologies. The goal is to ensure equal access to digital offerings.
Digital accessibility is closely linked to legal requirements such as the Accessibility Strengthening Act and international standards like the WCAG. These regulations define criteria that digital products must meet. The whitepaper explains the relevance of these requirements for organizations.
Accessible digital offerings improve usability for all user groups and increase reach and user satisfaction. They support legal compliance and reduce risks related to non-conformance. In addition, they contribute to sustainable, future-proof digital products and strengthen brand perception.
Challenges often arise from a lack of knowledge, complex legacy system landscapes, and unclear responsibilities. Integrating accessibility into existing design and development processes also requires structural adjustments. Early consideration helps reduce effort and complexity.
Digital accessibility can be integrated through clear standards, regular testing, and interdisciplinary collaboration. It is essential to embed accessibility as a fixed component of conception, design, and development. Training and defined processes support sustainable implementation.
The whitepaper is available as a PDF document. It is structured as a text-based resource covering digital accessibility from strategic, technical, and user-oriented perspectives. The content is suitable for both initial orientation and internal knowledge sharing.