Is your business digitally accessible?

As digital products and emerging technologies continue to evolve, accessibility barriers persist. The European Accessibility Act (EAA) seeks to break down these barriers by harmonizing European legislation to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to essential products and services.

The EAA, which has a compliance deadline of June 28, 2025, requires that all covered products and services, whether produced by EU-based or non-EU companies operating in the EU, meet the new accessibility standards.

It applies to new products and services; existing ones may be granted a transitional period.

The EAA covers a wide range of products and services, including online platforms. It requires that websites, apps, PDFs, and ebooks be accessible to all users, including compatibility with screen readers and, in some cases, voice commands. While the directive doesn't explicitly mention emerging technologies like VR, AR, or gaming, its principles suggest that these should also be designed with accessibility.

Eurostat reports that 1 in 4 adults in Europe live with a disability. By 2050, the global population of people aged 60 and older is projected to double, driving an increase in age-related disabilities. As a result, the demand for accessible products and services will rise, creating new opportunities for companies that prioritize inclusivity.

• Expand your consumer base

• Boost SEO by using proper headline hierarchy

• Strengthen your brand, putting inclusion at the center

• Improve usability and customer satisfaction, as it is easier for your customers to use what you offer

• Increase employee satisfaction, leading to a more diverse, engaged, and productive workforce

• Expand market opportunities, including partnerships with organizations that prioritize inclusivity

• Future-proof your business, staying ahead of evolving regulations and demographic trends by embedding accessibility into your long-term strategy.

Start by creating an accessibility plan. Then, determine whether you have the internal expertise to evaluate your digital platforms or if external help is needed.

Next, each website and app should undergo an accessibility audit. Based on the results, prioritize the necessary fixes and establish a budget if outside support is required. These could include changes to the content, technical aspects, or design.

Once corrections are made, conduct a final accessibility evaluation to ensure compliance.

To launch a new product, prioritize accessibility from the start. Ensure that key team members, like content providers, are trained on the criteria.

Again, a plan for the accessibility work will be central. Check-in during the entire process, both in the design and development phases.

If you are working with a supplier or agency, clarify in the brief that the project must comply with the EAA.

A website is dynamic, and new content and features are often added over time. It’s essential to conduct regular accessibility checks, such as annual reviews, to ensure ongoing compliance.