Conformance Level

When we talk about accessibility on websites or digital platforms, we often hear about "Conformance levels." These levels help us understand how well a website or app meets the needs of people with disabilities. But what do these levels mean, and why are they important? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What Are Conformance Levels?

Conformance levels come from the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). WCAG is a set of rules created to make digital content accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. These rules are grouped into three levels: A, AA, and AAA. Each level shows how much effort a website or app puts into being accessible.

The Three Conformance Levels

1. Level A: The Basics

Level A is the minimum standard. Websites that meet this level fix the most basic accessibility problems. It helps people access essential parts of the content but doesn’t guarantee a fully accessible experience.

Example:

• Adding alternative text (alt text) for images so screen readers can describe them.
• Making sure links are clickable and easy to identify.

This level is like opening a door but not putting up signs to guide people once they’re inside.

2. Level AA: The Standard Goal

Level AA is the most common target for businesses and organizations. It fixes bigger barriers that might stop people with disabilities from fully using a website.

Example:

• Text must be readable, with enough contrast between text color and background.
• Navigation should be consistent across pages.
• Forms must include clear labels so everyone can fill them out.

Meeting Level AA means most people with disabilities can use the website without major issues. It’s like opening the door and adding clear signs and ramps.

3. Level AAA: The Gold Standard

Level AAA is the highest level of accessibility. It covers everything in Levels A and AA and goes even further. It’s ideal for creating the best possible experience for everyone, but it’s not always practical for every website.

Example:

• Providing sign language translations for videos.
• Offering multiple ways to navigate a website, like a search bar and a sitemap.
• Avoiding hard-to-understand language, making content simple and clear.

Level AAA is like making your building not only accessible but also welcoming and easy to navigate for every single person.

Why Do Conformance Levels Matter?

Accessibility is about inclusion. When a website meets these levels, it ensures that people with disabilities can interact, understand, and engage with content. It also shows your organization’s commitment to being fair and inclusive.

Additionally, many laws around the world, like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) or the European Accessibility Act (EAA), require websites to meet at least Level AA. This makes accessibility not just the right thing to do but also a legal responsibility.

How Can You Start?

• Evaluate Your Website: Use tools or hire experts to check your site’s current accessibility.
• Set a Goal: Aim for Level AA as a baseline. If possible, include some AAA features for better user experiences.
• Work with Developers: Share these goals with your web team or designers so they can make necessary changes.

Final Thoughts

Accessibility isn’t just about rules; it’s about creating a better web for everyone. By understanding and applying these conformance levels, you can make your website more inclusive, help people with disabilities, and ensure your platform is welcoming to all. Start small, aim high, and take one step at a time toward a more accessible digital world.