Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
Overview
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide guidelines and Success Criteria for each corresponding standard
to create inclusive digital environments; particularly so people with
disabilities have the broadest possible access to content and services.
- UTMB's standard is WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance.
- However, you can try to remove as many barriers as possible, by aiming for Level AAA compliance on a success criteria whenever possible.
Conformance levels levels:
- Level A - meets all of the Level A requirements in full, or a conforming alternate version is provided
- Level AA - meets all of the Level A and Level AA requirements in full, or a conforming level AA alternate version is provided
- Level AAA - meets all of the Level A, Level AA, and Level AAA requirements in full, or a conforming Level AAA alternate version is provided
Learn more about the conformance levels at the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI).
- There are three levels of conformance, rated from minimally inclusive to broadly inclusive:
- A - minimum level of conformance and effort
- AA - average conformance and effort
- AAA - broadest conformance and effort
- Unfortunately there's not a one-to-one relationship between each criterion and its corresponding standard
- they are applied across all of the technologies that create the digital accessibility landscape
- the steps to show conformance will vary with each application of the corresponding technology
- this may cause confusion as it allows for interpretation in proving conformance
Best Practice avoid barriers between your consumers and the corresponding content and technologies. This will naturally meet higher WCAG standards, increase usability (and for web applications and content -- will improve Search Engine Optimization).
WCAG Principles
WCAG's Four Principles
- Perceivable - Users should be able to perceive the content, functionality, and methodology presented. These guidelines are in section 1.
- Operable - Users should be able to operate the interface, including the navigation and processes. These guidelines are in section 2.
- Understandable - Users should be able to understand the functionality, methodology, and information presented. These guidelines are in section 3.
- Robust - Content and functionality should be robust and work with multiple methods interaction including voice and assistive technologies. These guidelines are in section 4.
Did you know? Accessibility History
Did you know? Accessibility History