What is WCAG? Guidelines for Improving Web Accessibility

WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is an important international guideline for improving web accessibility. This guideline is designed to make web content accessible to all users, including people with disabilities. This article explains the basic overview of WCAG, its purpose, and key points for practical implementation. It is a useful resource for website operators, web designers, and developers.

Overview and Purpose of WCAG

WCAG is a set of guidelines for web accessibility developed by W3C (World Wide Web Consortium). The latest version is “WCAG 2.2.” These guidelines are based on the following four principles:

1. Perceivable
   Information and UI elements must be perceivable to users.

2. Operable
   Users must be able to operate the content and interface.

3. Understandable
   Information and interface must be understandable.

4. Robust
   Content must work well with various technologies and assistive technologies.

These principles provide a fundamental framework to ensure that web content is accessible to a wide variety of users.

WCAG Levels of Conformance

WCAG has three levels of conformance, which progressively indicate the accessibility standards that should be met:

• Level A: Basic accessibility requirements to ensure minimum accessibility.
• Level AA: Practical standards that allow most users with disabilities to use the content without issues.
• Level AAA: Ideal standards that allow all users to use the content comfortably.

For example, Level A requires providing alternative text for images, while Level AA adds the requirement for a contrast ratio of 4.5:1. Ideally, websites should aim for Level AAA, but Level AA conformance is widely recommended in practice.

Key Points for Implementing WCAG

1. Provide Alternative Text for Images

Alternative text for images is essential for users who rely on screen readers or when images fail to load. Instead of simply writing “red bag,” you could provide more detailed alternative text like “red leather tote bag” to offer more accurate information to users.

2. Ensure Sufficient Contrast Ratios

If the contrast between text and background is insufficient, it can be difficult for elderly users or those with visual impairments to read the content. Aim for a contrast ratio of 4.5:1 or higher, which is the Level AA requirement. Use online contrast checkers to verify the ratio.

3. Support Keyboard Navigation

It is crucial that all features are operable via the keyboard. For instance, menus and buttons should be navigable with the tab key, and the enter key should be used to select items.

4. Display Clear Error Messages

When an error occurs in form input, it is important to clearly communicate what went wrong. For example, showing “Please enter your name” is more helpful than just showing a generic error message.

Benefits of Complying with WCAG

By adhering to WCAG, the following benefits can be achieved:

• Reach a Wider Audience
  Websites become more accessible to a broader range of users, including older adults and people with disabilities.

• Reduce Legal Risks
  In Japan, the “Disability Discrimination Elimination Act” requires reasonable accommodations. By complying with WCAG, you can avoid legal issues.

• Improve SEO
  Accessible websites are favored by search engines, which can result in improved search rankings.

Who Should Implement WCAG?

Implementing WCAG is particularly important for the following groups:

• Webmasters of Businesses
  Accessibility is essential for ensuring that corporate websites are usable by a wide audience.

• Web Designers and Developers
  They need to design not only visually appealing but also functional interfaces that are usable by everyone.

• Public and Educational Institutions
  Accessibility is critical for government and public service websites, ensuring equal access to all citizens.

Conclusion

WCAG is not just a set of rules, but a tool to create a society where everyone has equal access to information and services. When operating a website, it is essential to understand WCAG’s principles and implement practical measures. Accessible web design is a valuable effort that benefits both users and providers.

Start working on improving accessibility today!

We have also released the UUU Web Accessibility Widget Tool for easy implementation of web accessibility. If you’re interested in enhancing accessibility, please check out the details!