Design web and accessibility: how to meet the WCAG 2025 standards in Switzerland?
Web Design and Accessibility: How to Meet WCAG 2025 Standards in Switzerland?
The new WCAG 3.0 standards, also known as WCAG 2025, redefine digital accessibility by expanding their scope to modern technologies such as mobile applications, VR/AR, and connected devices. Here are the key points:
-
Main Changes:
- Replacing "success criteria" with user-focused "outcomes."
- Expanding guidelines beyond traditional websites.
- New evaluation model for clearer compliance.
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Benefits for Businesses in Switzerland:
- Legal compliance with the European Accessibility Act (EAA) starting from June 2025.
- Access to 1.8 million people with disabilities (18% of the population).
- Reduced risks of sanctions and litigations.
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Key Steps to Prepare:
- Conduct an accessibility audit (WCAG 2.1 Level AA).
- Implement technical adjustments (contrast, keyboard navigation, alternative descriptions).
- Train teams to integrate best practices.
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Tools and Resources:
- Use tools like WAVE to test accessibility.
- Rely on Swiss centers like Zugang für alle for in-depth testing.
With these standards, Switzerland strengthens its legal framework for digital accessibility, especially through the Federal Law on the Elimination of Inequalities Affecting People with Disabilities (LHand). Companies must act quickly to comply and avoid financial penalties while expanding their market.
Summary Table: Key Changes in WCAG 3.0
| Domain | Key Changes | Main Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Transition from "success criteria" to "outcomes" | User-centered approach |
| Technologies | Extension to applications, VR/AR, etc. | Better coverage of modern uses |
| Compliance | New evaluation model | More clarity and precision |
Prepare now to ensure a smooth transition to WCAG 2025 and remain competitive in the European market.
WCAG 2025: Key Changes
New Requirements
WCAG 3.0 standards bring significant adjustments to improve digital accessibility. These innovations aim to meet current user needs while considering technological advancements.
The WCAG 3.0 model introduces several transformations:
| Domain | Key Changes | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Replacing "success criteria" with "outcomes" | More focus on achieved results |
| Scope | Expansion beyond traditional web | Includes applications, tools, and new technologies |
| Compliance | New evaluation model | Clearer and detailed requirements |
"WCAG 3.0 supports this evolution by focusing on the functional needs of users. These needs are then supported by guidelines written as outcome statements, requirements, assertions, and technology-specific methods to meet these needs." - W3C Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 3.0
These adjustments pave the way for a redesign of design practices.
Evolution of Design Methods
The guidelines change the approach to accessible design. Notable advancements concern areas such as virtual reality, AR, connected devices, and dynamic content, reflecting the evolution of digital uses.
In addition to technical aspects, WCAG 3.0 emphasizes a stronger consideration of cognitive needs. Designers must now integrate elements that facilitate:
- Better content understanding
- Simplified and intuitive navigation
- Adaptation to different learning styles
Sites that comply with WCAG 2.2 levels A and AA will smoothly transition to WCAG 3.0. WCAG 2.2 will remain applicable even after the implementation of WCAG 3.0, allowing for a gradual adoption of the new guidelines.
Steps to Create WCAG-Compliant Sites
Visual Design Standards
To ensure an accessible experience, adhere to key principles such as contrast, readability, and textual alternatives:
- Contrast: Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background.
- Fonts: Use clear and easy-to-read fonts.
- Alternative descriptions: Provide alternative texts for images.
- Hierarchy: Organize content with well-defined headings.
Once these elements are in place, it is essential to make navigation accessible to all.
User Navigation Requirements
Navigation should be designed to meet the needs of all users, including those using assistive technologies. Here are some key elements to consider:
| Element | Requirement | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard navigation | All elements must be accessible without a mouse | Assists users with motor limitations |
| Visual indicators | Highlight focus on interactive elements | Improves orientation and visual understanding |
| Logical structure | Enables smooth and intuitive navigation |
"We focus on implementing accessible websites, starting from the design and development stages. We are familiar with the standards and guidelines of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.2)." - Unic
Mobile-First Design Rules
With 74% of e-commerce traffic coming from smartphones in 2022, mobile design is essential. Here are key points to consider:
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Touch Interfaces
Design interactive elements with large and well-spaced touch areas for comfortable use. -
Performance Optimization
Reduce file sizes, especially images, and apply responsive techniques to speed up loading. -
Simplified Navigation
Prioritize intuitive and minimalist navigation, highlighting essential information on small screens.
Finally, integrating an accessibility navigation, placed just after the <body> tag, allows users to quickly access the main sections of the site.
The deadline is running out for Web Accessibility
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Accessibility Testing Methods
These methods, whether automated or manual, complement the design practices mentioned earlier and ensure compliance with WCAG 2025 standards.
Software Testing Tools
Automated tools play a key role in verifying compliance with WCAG 2025 standards. For example, WAVE offers extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, ideal for analyzing dynamic and secure pages. Additionally, its API allows integrating accessibility tests directly into development processes.
| Tool | Main Use | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| WAVE Extension | Quick tests in the browser | Instant analysis of dynamic pages |
| WAVE API | Continuous automated tests | Integration into existing infrastructures |
However, these automated tools should be complemented with manual tests to detect issues that automation might miss.
Manual Testing Steps
Manual tests help identify 30 to 50% of issues that automated tools may overlook. Here are the main elements to examine:
- Keyboard Navigation
Test navigation without a mouse to ensure all interactive elements are accessible. As Zoë Bijl explains:
"Before you release a website, tab through it. If you cannot see where you are on the page after each tab; you're not finished yet."
- Screen Reader Tests
Use different screen readers to evaluate accessibility. Here are some recommendations:
| Screen Reader | System | Recommended Browser |
|---|---|---|
| NVDA | Windows | Firefox |
| VoiceOver | macOS | Safari |
| TalkBack | Android | Chrome |
- Visual Checks
Examine color contrast, navigation consistency, and ensure no unnecessary flashing elements are present.
To complement these tests, it is useful to turn to specialized resources in Switzerland.
Testing Resources in Switzerland
The foundation "Zugang für alle" is recognized as a competence center for digital accessibility in Switzerland. It offers:
- Testing services for websites and applications,
- Accessibility certifications,
- Expert consultations.
The Academy of Digital Inclusion, in partnership with Bitforge in Zurich, provides training and advice on digital accessibility.
In February 2025, "Zugang für alle" warned against superficial accessibility solutions, emphasizing the importance of a thorough approach to meet WCAG standards.
Finally, the Swiss Alliance for Digital Inclusion (ADIS), launched in November 2024, strengthens the available resources for accessibility testing throughout the country.
Swiss Laws on Web Accessibility
Current Legal Framework
In Switzerland, digital accessibility is regulated by the Federal Law on the Elimination of Inequalities Affecting People with Disabilities (LHand). This law concerns approximately 1.8 million people, or 20% of the population, affected by at least one form of disability.
The legal framework is based on two main axes:
| Type of Organization | Legal Obligations | Required Compliance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Institutions | Mandatory compliance | WCAG Level AA |
| Private Companies | Non-discrimination prohibition | No specific requirement |
The eCH-0059 Version 3.0 standard, adopted on May 21, 2021, aligns Swiss requirements with WCAG 2.1 while integrating elements from the European directive.
In case of non-compliance, legal action can be taken, with compensation capped at 5,000 CHF. Let's now examine the specific obligations imposed by the Swiss government.
Government Compliance Rules
Accessibility obligations focus on several key areas:
1. Public Institutions
Public bodies must ensure their digital services are accessible to all. This includes:
- Institutional websites
- Mobile applications
- Digital documents
- Online services
2. Affected Sectors
The LHand applies notably to:
- Accessible public buildings
- Residential buildings with more than eight units
- Companies with more than 50 employees
- Public transportation
- Federal and cantonal services
The Ordinance on the Elimination of Inequalities specifies technical requirements for federal agencies, which must comply with WCAG Level AA standards. This approach ensures consistency with international standards while considering Swiss specificities.
Swiss companies operating in Germany or the European Union must also comply with the German Act on Strengthening Accessibility (BFSG) and corresponding European regulations, expanding their compliance framework.
Conclusion: Next Steps for WCAG 2025
Key Points to Remember
Complying with WCAG 2025 standards requires an organized and thoughtful approach. Companies in Switzerland must focus on several important elements:
| Action Domain | Requirements | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility Audit | Evaluation WCAG 2.1 Level AA | Immediate |
| Technical Compliance | European Accessibility Act (EAA) | June 2025 |
| Team Training | Awareness and best practices | Ongoing |
These priorities require swift mobilization. Companies targeting the European market must prepare for the implementation of the EAA in June 2025. This market represents a major economic opportunity that should not be overlooked.
To address these challenges, strategic collaboration can make all the difference.
Why Work with EWM SA?
To succeed in your transition to WCAG 2025 compliance, EWM SA offers comprehensive support tailored to your specific needs:
- Customized Audit: In-depth analysis to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA criteria.
- Technical Solutions: Implementation of necessary adjustments to ensure compliance.
- Regular Testing: Frequent checks to ensure your platforms remain compliant.
- Continuous Training: Dedicated sessions to permanently integrate best practices.
With our expertise in UI/UX design and deep knowledge of accessibility standards, we create digital solutions that not only meet legal requirements but also optimize the user experience for all. Ignoring these requirements can lead to financial penalties, limit access to the European market, and tarnish your image. Acting now to meet the new WCAG 2025 standards is essential.