What is Accessibility?

Web accessibility means designing and developing websites, tools, and technologies so that everyone can use them, regardless of ability. Specifically, accessible web content ensures that people can:

  • Perceive the information presented
  • Understand the content and interface
  • Navigate and interact with the site effectively
  • Contribute content when appropriate

Web accessibility encompasses all disabilities that affect access to the Web, including:

  • Auditory
  • Cognitive
  • Neurological
  • Physical
  • Speech
  • Visual

Web accessibility also benefits people without disabilities, for example:

  • People that use mobile devices with small screens
  • Aging people with changing abilities to view or listen to content
  • People with “temporary disabilities” such as a broken arm or lost glasses
  • Rural communities with slow internet connections that cannot view pages with heavy image content

Why Accessibility is Important

Electronic resources are central to how we communicate, learn, and work each day. Implementing accessible design practices ensures that individuals who rely on assistive technology can participate fully and equitably whether engaging in class activities, exploring university course offerings, or performing their job responsibilities.

Digital resources, especially websites, play a critical role in the daily operations of institutions such as government agencies, businesses, colleges, and universities. When these resources are accessible, they support equal access, improve user experience for everyone, and strengthen institutional effectiveness.

Most importantly, accessible digital content removes barriers. It empowers individuals who use adaptive technologies to access information independently, engage meaningfully, and succeed alongside their peers.

Electronic Accessibility is Required by Law

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is the organization which protects against discrimination in programs or activities that occur in federally assisted education programs. As defined in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, these programs are legally obligated to ensure that no discrimination exists based on race, color, nationality, gender, age and sex.

The Office for Civil Rights is also charged with investigating claims of electronic accessibility violations. Online courses, learning management systems, websites and their associated digital assets such as videos and text documents are all required to be accessible to individuals with or without disabilities.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits agencies that receive federal or state funding from discriminating against persons with disabilities. Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 defines the requirements for digital accessibility. If an accessible option cannot be provided, these organizations are required to provide a reasonable accommodation for the person(s) requesting assistance.

Please read our Laws, Policies, and Standards resources to learn more about our legal responsibilities to make content accessible.