General Accessibility Standards
General Accessibility Standards refer to established guidelines and principles for making digital products, such as websites and applications, usable by people with disabilities. These standards, most notably the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), provide a framework for ensuring content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. They are essential for creating inclusive technology that serves diverse user needs, including those with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments.
Developers should learn and apply these standards to comply with legal requirements (e.g., ADA, Section 508) and avoid discrimination lawsuits, which are increasingly common in many regions. They are crucial for building products that reach a wider audience, including the over 1 billion people globally with disabilities, and improve overall user experience by enhancing usability for all users, not just those with impairments. Use cases include developing accessible websites, mobile apps, and software for public services, education, or e-commerce to ensure equal access.