Accessibility
on the web isn’t something that necessarily comes to mind when we think about
providing accessible services, but as our lives migrate more and more into the
virtual space, making digital content accessible is a crucial part of building
an inclusive society. The AODA drafters did not overlook this, and AODA does
apply to digital content.
“Information”
is defined as “data, facts and knowledge” that exist in any format and that
convey meaning. Under the Regulation “communications” means “the interaction
between two or more persons or entities,” in any combination “where information
is provided, sent or received.” This means pretty much everything,
including information and communication conveyed by websites and apps.
Details
regarding accessible digital content are covered under s.14 of Part II
of the Integrated Accessibility Standards. Large organizations (50
or more people) were required to bring their new digital content in line with
Level A of the World Wide Web Consortium Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
(WCAG) 2.0 by January 1, 2014. All digital content published after
January 1, 2012 will need to conform with WCAG 2.0 Level AA by January 1, 2021.
The AODA does not apply to web content published prior to January 1, 2012, so
don’t worry about trying to revamp your early 2000s GeoCities store!
The
requirements to actually conform are set out in the WCAG 2.0, which is a
technical standard. These cover things like “contrast ratios” and “keyboard
interfaces,” and are firmly in the realm of the programmers and
designers. The overarching goal is to have digital content that is equally
accessible to all visitors. The WCAG seeks to accomplish this by removing
common barriers such as print that is too small to read, or videos that don’t
have closed captions. Content should be easily navigable and easy to both see
and hear.
What can your
organization do to implement web accessibility?
If you are
interested in learning more about Accessibility
for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) or how to make accessibility a natural
part of your business through the application of Corporate Social Responsibility, please contact Sandra Broekhof @
416-579-1035 or sandra_broekhof@sympatico.ca
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