Implementing digital accessibility (WCAG 2.1)

Digital accessibility is a key element in building an inclusive digital world, enabling everyone, regardless of their limitations, to have equal access to information and services in the online space. In Poland, this idea was legally sanctioned in 2019 by the Act on Digital Accessibility of Public Entities' Websites and Mobile Applications. This obligation applies primarily to the public sector, but the adaptation of websites to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) requirements is becoming increasingly popular in the private sector as well.

The implementation of WCAG 2.1 standards at level AA, which is now required, covers a wide range of activities from design to programming to content management for websites.

Legal bases and requirements

The Act of 4 April 2019 identifies four key areas of digital accessibility:

1. Perceptibility - includes providing content in a way that is adapted to the needs of different users, e.g. alternative graphic descriptions, text and background contrast, or appropriate spacing between letters.
2. Functionality - ensures that the site can be navigated with a keyboard, creates a logical structure for the site and eliminates elements that could cause risks, e.g. for people with epilepsy.
3. Understandability - means predictability and intuitive navigation, as well as help with forms and guidance on errors.
4. Compatibility - the website should work with assistive technologies such as screen readers and the HTML code must be semantically correct.

Public entities, such as public sector bodies or NGOs, are obliged to comply with these requirements. However, alignment with WCAG is a good practice that should be followed by every website owner.

WCAG compliance levels

WCAG defines three levels of compliance:

1. A (basic level) - failure to meet these guidelines may prevent access to content for some users.
2. AA (optimal level) - failure to meet may result in difficulties in accessing content for different groups.
3. AAA (advanced level) - the most difficult to achieve, but provides maximum accessibility.

Currently, the AA level of version 2.1 is required in Poland. Meeting these standards requires the implementation of technical, design and editorial solutions at every stage of creating and maintaining the site.

Działania wdrożeniowe

Wdrożenia techniczne

The developer has a key role in making the website WCAG-compliant. Key aspects include:

• Creating contrast versions - enabling the site to be changed to a more contrasting appearance for people with visual impairments.
• Correct use of HTML tags - using relevant elements such as 'a', 'button' and 'input' correctly.
• Support for assistive technologies - e.g. optimising code for screen readers.
• Avoiding flickering elements - eliminating the risk of triggering epileptic seizures.

Adaptation of content

Content on WCAG-compliant sites should:

• Include alternative descriptions of graphics and multimedia elements.
• Be adaptable to different presentation formats, such as film subtitles or transcriptions of audio recordings.
• Offer intuitive navigation, predictable user paths and clear instructions for forms.

Editorial process

Every piece of content should be thoroughly analysed for accessibility. It is important to ask yourself: "Will a person with limitations be able to receive this information in the same way the author assumes?"

Examples of implementation and good practice

Interactive agency Krakweb has extensive experience in implementing WCAG 2.1. In 2024, it created a website for the Foundation for the Development of Polish Agriculture (FDPA). Key elements of the implementation included:

• Implementation of a contrast version.
• Adaptation of forms.
• Transferring and editing content.
• Implementation of accessibility statements.

Once the project was completed, training was provided to the FDPA team, allowing them to manage the content themselves in compliance with WCAG.

Summary

Implementing digital accessibility is a multi-step process, requiring the involvement of specialists in programming, UX/UI design and content editing. WCAG 2.1 is the foundation of an inclusive internet, allowing all users to benefit equally from digital resources.

Meeting these standards is not only a legal obligation, but also an expression of social responsibility and concern for the quality of the user experience.