Accessibility Glossary

Responsive Design

What does responsive design mean in the context of accessibility?

Responsive design refers to an approach in web development in which content automatically adapts to different screen sizes and device types. Whether smartphone, tablet or desktop, the website remains usable and clear, regardless of the end device.

Responsive design is particularly important for accessibility. People with visual impairments who need to zoom in or rely on smaller displays benefit from content that is not cut off, distorted or difficult to read.

People with motor impairments who operate mobile devices with touch also need easily accessible buttons and sufficient space between controls.

A responsive design not only improves the user experience for everyone, but is also a technical must for compliance with accessibility standards such as WCAG or BITV.

It stands for a flexible, inclusive web design that excludes no one, regardless of device or individual abilities.