The European Accessibility Act: Greater inclusion through tech innovation

Rapid digital advancements are closing the gap between the future and the present. The websites, apps, and devices we rely on change quickly, demanding that we stay ahead of the curve. But many people with disabilities are being left behind, which is detrimental for any business and bad for society. After all, what good is technology if it divides us further??

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a monumental step in the right direction – an opportunity to blaze new trails and break down accessibility barriers that have stood far too long.?

Understanding the EAA

The EAA mandates that all digital platforms and services be accessible to people with disabilities, ensuring they can easily navigate and use these technologies. The act covers websites, mobile apps, electronic documents, and more – setting a high standard for accessibility that promotes equal participation in the digital landscape.

Embracing accessibility as innovation

At UserWay, we embrace the spirit of innovation that drives progress. Here are five actionable tips for global companies to prepare for the EAA:

1. Implement comprehensive accessibility audits

Conduct thorough accessibility audits of your websites, mobile apps, documents, and digital content to ensure they meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. While AI can help here, a manual audit is invaluable compared to possible violation costs. Use assistive tech platforms like UserWay to streamline this process, identify areas for improvement, and pursue compliance with EAA requirements.

2. Integrate accessibility into the design and dev processes

Incorporate accessibility from the ground up in your design and development workflows. Train your teams on accessibility best practices and integrate accessibility testing into every product development phase. Make accessibility a core competency to meet regulatory requirements and nurture an inclusive workplace. Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword – it's a smart way to work.

3. Engage with user communities

Listen to feedback from users with disabilities and engage with accessibility advocacy groups. Actively seek input on how your products can better meet their needs. User feedback is invaluable in refining accessibility features and ensuring your solutions truly empower all users. Platforms like UserWay offer tools for gathering user feedback and implementing improvements based on user experiences.

4. Regularly review and update your digital assets

Accessibility is a long-term commitment. Websites and app content change over time, so It takes continuous effort to maintain EAA compliance. Regularly review and update your digital assets to keep in lockstep with these critical regulations.

5. Don’t hesitate to comply (penalties are steep)

Importantly, all Member States must adopt and apply the EAA nationally through transpositions by 2022. If you're a business leader, it’s on you to carefully vet a digital accessibility provider and rally internal support for development and implementation. Why? Because the fines for non-compliance have real-world impact, topping €3 million, depending on the infraction, business size, and specific location.?

Looking ahead: a regulatory path for tech pioneers

The EAA gives global companies a unique opportunity to innovate in entirely new ways. Organizations can meet regulatory requirements and foster a more equitable digital ecosystem through design, development, and user engagement.

Ultimately, we’ll all be judged at the intersection of innovation and inclusivity. The EAA marks a significant milestone where accessibility drives innovation, and inclusivity defines progress.

Image description for article cover photo: Promotional banner for Allon's LinkedIn article. Main text reads: "The European Accessibility Act: Greater inclusion through tech innovation." Above the text is the official UserWay logo. On the right side of the image is a headshot of UserWay CEO Allon Mason against a blue and green gradient background, with a stylized UserWay logo behind him.