1. Introduction to the topic of web content with minimal accessibility barriers

Definition of accessibility and minimal accessibility barriers

In Germany, accessibility is stipulated in the Act on Equitable Opportunities for People with Disabilities (Behindertengleichstellungsgesetz – BGG; only available in German). Accessibility is defined as a situation where people with disabilities are generally able to independently find buildings and means of transport, for example, but also information processing systems or visual and acoustic sources of communication that are accessible and usable for them. In this context, the use of disability-related aids is not ruled out and may even be necessary to achieve accessibility.

When creating accessible websites, reference is usually made to the Web Content Accessibility Guidlines (WCAG) 2.0, Web Content Accessibility Guidlines (WCAG) 2.0, the international guidelines on creating web content accessible to people with disabilities. They consist of 12 guidelines that are subdivided into the four principles perceivable, operable, understandable and robust. There are testable requirements for success for each guideline. Accessible website design is laid down in the Ordinance on Creating Accessible Information Technology (Verordnung zur Schaffung barrierefreier Informationstechnik – BITV 2.0; only available in German) on the basis of the BGG.

Minimal barrier access, on the other hand, is not a legally defined term and is therefore often used in cases where barriers that hinder access are reduced or eliminated, in particular for people with limited mobility. The term is also used when complete accessibility cannot be achieved (e.g. due to technical restrictions).

Software and browser add-ons for assessing accessibility