The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) published by the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) and the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) are the gold standard for making websites accessible to all people, including those with various disabilities. Earlier this month, WCAG 2.2 officially became the newest recommended standard.
What Changed in WCAG 2.2?
A few minor changes were made, such as promoting or demoting the level of various criteria to WCAG A, WCAG AA, or WCAG AAA, respectively. One requirement was removed: “parsing” as it is now obsolete. Most notably, nine new requirements were added, including:
- Additional specifications on making web content more navigable, particularly for users who are unable to use a mouse or trackpad and rely on keyboard controls
- Making sure that when an item gets keyboard focus it is not visually obscured in any way
- Making sure that the visual indicator that an item is in focus has sufficient size and contrast
- New guidance on ensuring all input modalities work well for those with fine motor challenges
- Dragging-and-dropping actions with a mouse can be difficult or even impossible for many users. A simple pointer alternative should be provided.
- Links and buttons that are too small or close together are challenging for those with physical impairments. Clickable items should be large enough and spaced apart so that users do not have difficulty clicking the intended link.
- Updated guidance on providing a consistent help experience throughout a website to make the site more predictable
- New success criteria for providing input assistance to users, helping them avoid mistakes
- Avoid asking users for the same information twice in the same session
- Making authentication (logins) more accessible. Any request for a password, solving a puzzle, etc offers an alternative or mechanism to assist the user.
What does this mean for my organization?
ADA compliance is mandatory for any website that receives funding from the state, local or federal governments. Lawsuits filed against these types of websites are called Title II claims.
Moreover, businesses offering products or services to the general public must also meet accessibility standards or else remain at risk for lawsuits referred to as Title III claims. The number of web accessibility lawsuits filed has increased steadily over the last five years, with 3,255 cases filed in 2022.
Thankfully, we love working with organizations to make their websites accessible and offer ongoing website care packages that include continual optimization and accessibility improvements.
