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ACCESSIBLE WEBSITES

A guide to your inclusive web presence.

A11Y is not a hype but the new web standard.

Website checker
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Over 10 years of experience – no white-label solutions, 100% in-house work.

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Accessibility on the web

Accessibility on the web means making digital content usable for everyone—regardless of physical or cognitive limitations. In Germany and the EU, digital accessibility will become mandatory for many businesses starting in 2025. This guide explains what defines an accessible website, why it matters, and how to make your web presence accessible step by step. We cover legal obligations, audit and analysis, strategy and planning, and design and development. In addition, we show how InboundLabs can support you along the way.

What is an accessible website?

A website is considered accessible when visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive limitations do not hinder a person’s ability to use it. This means content and features must be usable by all users—including people with visual impairments, hearing loss, motor disabilities, or cognitive limitations. Assistive technologies help bridge the gap. Blind users may use screen reader software to hear page content; visually impaired users rely on magnifiers; people with motor impairments might use specialized input devices like a mouth stick or other alternative interfaces.

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Common web barriers

include missing alternative text for images, lack of captions in videos, low color contrast, confusing forms, or navigation that only works with a mouse. Accessible web design is based on internationally recognized standards—especially the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These define concrete success criteria such as sufficient contrast, keyboard operability, clear structure, and descriptive labels. In Europe, the norm EN 301 549 is the reference, based on WCAG.

Introduction to WCAG:
https://www.w3.org/WAI/standards-guidelines/wcag/

In short, an accessible website is designed and implemented so that no user is excluded or disadvantaged due to a disability.

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Why accessible
websites matter

Accessible websites benefit everyone. People with disabilities represent a significant user group: according to the WHO, 16% of the world’s population lives with a significant disability (WHO World Report on Disability). In Germany, around 7.8 million people are classified as severely disabled (Destatis 2023). Yet over 95% of all websites do not meet WCAG standards (WebAIM Million Report 2024).

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Temporary or situational limitations

Accessible websites benefit everyone. People with disabilities represent a significant user group: according to the WHO, 16% of the world’s population lives with a significant disability (WHO World Report on Disability). In Germany, around 7.8 million people are classified as severely disabled (Destatis 2023). Yet over 95% of all websites do not meet WCAG standards (WebAIM Million Report 2024).

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Businesses also benefit

Accessible websites open new markets. Studies suggest that up to 20% of potential customers may be lost due to accessibility issues. Accessibility often leads to improved SEO and performance, through clean HTML, proper use of alt text, and better usability on mobile devices. Brands that embrace inclusion also boost their public image and demonstrate social responsibility.

Legal deadlines & obligations
(as of 2025)

In the EU, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) takes effect June 28, 2025, and is being implemented in Germany via the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG). This law obligates many businesses—especially in e-commerce—to make their webshops, services, and digital products accessible.


More details: German Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs on the BFSG (open in a new tab)



Small businesses (<10 employees and <€2M in revenue) are exempt. For everyone else, accessibility must be fully implemented by June 28, 2025. Noncompliance can lead to legal action or penalties.

How accessible is 
your website?

Before making improvements, conduct an audit of your current website. Quick checks include:
 
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Keyboard test

Can you navigate using Tab? Is a visual focus indicator visible?

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Animations

Are sliders autoplaying longer than 5 seconds without pause control?

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Contrast

Is the text readable in poor lighting?

Even easier: 

Try our free InboundLabs Accessibility Checker to instantly assess your site’s accessibility.

Free Accessibility Checker


* We also offer in-depth accessibility audits based on
WCAG and BITV, including prioritized recommendations
and documentation upon request.

Strategic approach to accessibility

Accessibility requires planning. Our consulting services help you:

  • Set goals and prioritize steps
  • Train and sensitize your team
  • Build internal processes for accessible content
  • Guide implementation from start to finish

Together, we’ll define a realistic, legally compliant roadmap tailored to your needs.

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Putting accessibility into action

InboundLabs offers:

  • UX/UI design compliant with WCAG 2.1 / EN 301 549
  • Development of accessible UI components (buttons, navigation, forms, etc.)
  • Integration of accessible themes and modules (WordPress, HubSpot, Typo3)
  • Testing with assistive tools (screen readers, keyboard navigation, contrast checks)

For us, accessibility is not an afterthought—it's embedded in our development process.

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