Quick Take
Digital accessibility is no longer optional; it’s a strategic and legal must-do. Aligning with WCAG 2.2 Level AA isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s about unlocking access to all users while safeguarding your organization. CTOs should assess their web and app environments for compliance gaps and prioritize remediation. Think of it as preventive medicine for your digital estate: a little upfront effort prevents a lot of headaches and lawsuits later.
Why You Should Care
- Global alignment. Most accessibility legislation, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the US, Accessible Canada Act (ACA) in Canada, European Accessibility Act (EAA) in the EU, and Equality Act 2010 for the UK, uses WCAG as the compliance benchmark. By following WCAG 2.2, your digital services can meet multiple jurisdictional requirements simultaneously, simplifying a previously complex compliance landscape.
- Legal exposure. Noncompliance carries real consequences. Recent cases, such as Bashin v. Conduent (US$2 million settlement) and Jodhan v. Canada (CAN$150,000), underscore that inaccessibility is not just a reputational risk; it’s a tangible financial liability.
- Enhanced user experience. Accessibility improves usability for everyone, not just those with disabilities. Clear navigation, readable content, and operable interfaces enhance engagement, reduce friction, and broaden your market reach.
- Future-proofing. WCAG 2.2 introduces new success criteria for focus visibility, target size, and accessible authentication, ensuring interfaces remain robust as technologies evolve. Staying ahead of these standards prevents costly retrofits down the line.
What You Should Do Next
- Conduct a rapid accessibility audit using automated tools, followed by manual verification to catch nuanced issues.
- Publish an accessibility statement and establish a dedicated feedback channel for barrier reporting.
- Map your digital assets against your governing legislation and target WCAG 2.2 Level AA compliance across all web and document resources.
Get Started
- Use free and commercial accessibility evaluation tools from W3C to identify gaps quickly, then prioritize remediation based on legal and user impact.
- Publish an accessibility statement on your website and create a feedback loop for users to report barriers, showing accountability and commitment.
- Include documents, forms, and apps in your accessibility scope. Do not limit compliance efforts to the main website alone.