Forms lack labels
Without labels and error messages, screen-reader users cannot complete forms and you lose enquiries.
Services · Web design
Accessible web design
Accessible web design guided by WCAG 2.2 so more people can use your website, without barriers in forms, contrast or keyboard navigation.
- Standard
- WCAG 2.2, level AA
- Legal framework
- BFSG since 28 June 2025
- Approach
- Audit or new build
- Testing
- Manual checks and tools
Accessibility means quality, and is mandatory for some services.
Accessible websites work for people with visual, hearing, motor or concentration impairments, and for anyone using a phone in sunlight, navigating by keyboard or in a hurry. They are often better structured, faster and more search-friendly.
Since 28 June 2025, Germany's Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) has applied to certain digital products and services, including B2C online shops. Exemptions exist for microenterprises providing services. Get legal advice on whether and how the BFSG applies to you; I handle technical implementation.
Does this sound familiar?
Contrast is too low
Light grey text on white is difficult to read, especially in sunlight or with impaired vision. Minimum requirements are measurable.
The site cannot be operated by keyboard
Menus, dialogs and sliders that only work with a mouse exclude many users.
What I implement
Semantic structure
Clear heading levels, landmarks and lists so screen readers can present the page meaningfully.
Contrast & readability
Text contrast of at least 4.5:1, or 3:1 for large text, scalable type and adequate line spacing.
Keyboard & focus
Keyboard access to every function, visible focus, skip links and a logical order.
Forms
Labels, errors, guidance and autocomplete that work without a mouse or sight.
Images, media & motion
Meaningful alt text, video captions and reduced motion when users request it.
Testing & documentation
Manual checks and tools, documented findings and guidance for your editors.
What WCAG 2.2 means in practice
Four principles
WCAG groups requirements into four principles: perceivable, operable, understandable and robust. Level AA is the usual target level; WCAG is also referenced in European standard EN 301 549.
New in WCAG 2.2
Version 2.2 adds requirements including minimum target sizes of 24 × 24 CSS pixels, unobscured focus and easier authentication and alternatives to dragging. I account for these from the start.
Why it is worthwhile
Accessibility improves usability for everyone through clear structure, readable text and reliable controls. This can affect bounce rates and conversion. Many measures also help SEO, including headings, alt text and structure.
Clear limits
Formal certification is a separate step performed by external assessors. I prepare the technical foundation and test against WCAG criteria, but do not provide legal advice or guarantee regulatory conformity.
My approach
-
Review or requirements 1 week
Audit barriers on existing sites, or agree requirements and target standards for new projects.
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Prioritise 2–3 days
Rank measures by impact: what blocks users, and what improves their experience?
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Implementation 2–4 weeks
Adapt structure, design and code, or build from scratch with WCAG priorities.
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Testing 1 week
Manual keyboard, screen-reader and zoom tests, plus automated checks.
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Handover 2–3 days
Document findings, provide editorial guidance on alt text and headings, and recommend assessors.
Who this is relevant for
A good fit if
- You run an online shop or offer services that may fall under the BFSG.
- You serve public-sector, education or health-related audiences.
- You care about usability independently of regulatory requirements.
Probably not a fit if
- You expect a quality seal without changing the website's content.
- You need a legal assessment of your obligations; that requires legal advice.
Accessible web design questions
A website is accessible when people with different impairments can perceive, operate and understand it, for example through screen readers, keyboards or magnification. WCAG, currently version 2.2, is commonly used as the benchmark.
Since 28 June 2025, the BFSG has applied to certain products and services, including consumer online shops. Exemptions exist, including for microenterprises providing services. Get legal advice for your situation; I support technical implementation.
WCAG are technical Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. The BFSG is legislation defining who must implement accessibility. Technical requirements draw on European standards based on WCAG.
It depends on the site's condition. An audit usually takes a few days; implementation can take several weeks. In new projects, accessibility is included in the normal schedule.
When planned from the start, the extra effort is manageable. Retrofitting costs more. An audit provides clarity before you decide.
No. Browser overlays cannot fix problems in the code or replace proper implementation. Accessibility belongs in structure, design and code.
Why es.design
01
Custom-built, never off the shelf
Every website is built for your business and your people – no themes, no templates, no 08/15. Powered by Storyblok, Vercel and Supabase.
02
100% personal
One contact for strategy, design and build – no account-manager ping-pong.
03
Fixed price, clear scope
You know what you get and what it costs before we start.
04
Local, digital everywhere
Studio in the Odenwald, projects across the region and beyond.
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