Web Accessibility Policy vs. Statement: What’s the Difference?
As the demand for accessible websites, apps, and digital services grows, it's essential for businesses to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can easily access their content. Two terms that often come up in this context are web accessibility statement and accessibility policy. While they might seem similar, they have different purposes and are not interchangeable.
Both are tied to accessibility, involve communication, and are key to staying compliant with the law. However, they serve distinct roles. Understanding the difference can help your business meet ADA requirements, follow accessibility guidelines, and show your commitment to inclusion.
In this article, we'll break down what each term means, explain how they differ, and discuss why it's crucial for every organization to have both.
What Is a Web Accessibility Policy?
A Web Accessibility Policy is an internal document within your company that outlines how your business ensures its digital content (websites, apps, etc.) meets accessibility standards. Think of it as a guide that sets the framework for ensuring all your digital products are developed in compliance with accessibility laws and guidelines.
Unlike the Accessibility Statement, which is a public-facing communication, the policy addresses internal teams, leadership, and sometimes even regulators. Its role is to create responsibility and consistency within the company, so accessibility is not overlooked.
Key Features of a Web Accessibility Policy:
Commitment to Accessibility: Establishes your company’s dedication to creating accessible digital experiences.
Accessibility Standards: Refers to the specific standards (like WCAG 2.1 AA, ADA, or Section 508) the company must adhere to.
Assigned Responsibilities: Details who in the company (e.g., designers, developers, content creators) is responsible for implementing and maintaining accessibility measures.
Testing and Monitoring: This document defines how accessibility testing will be conducted and monitored within our digital products to ensure ongoing compliance with accessibility standards.
Training: Ensures employees and contractors are trained on accessibility standards and practices.
Continuous Review: Stipulates that the policy will be reviewed regularly, usually annually, to account for changes in standards and technology.
What Is an Accessibility Statement?
An accessibility statement is a public document that outlines how accessible your website or app is and describes the steps you’ve taken to ensure accessibility. Unlike the Web Accessibility Policy, which is internal, the Accessibility Statement is intended for users to review and understand how your business meets accessibility requirements.
The statement shows your customers that accessibility is a priority and provides transparency on the features and efforts you've implemented to make your site more inclusive.
Key Features of an Accessibility Statement:
Declaration of Commitment: Similar to the policy, the statement begins by affirming your company’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
Accessibility Standards: This section lists the guidelines or regulations your site complies with, such as WCAG 2.1 AA or ADA.
Accessibility Features: Highlights specific accessibility features available on your site, such as:
Keyboard navigation for those unable to use a mouse
Compatibility with screen readers for visually impaired users
Adjustable color contrast settings for better readability
Options for resizing text
Known Limitations: Transparency is key. If there are areas of the site that do not yet comply with accessibility guidelines, they should be acknowledged, along with plans for improvement.
Contact Information: Provides a way for users to report issues or request accommodations, often via an email address or feedback form.
Why Do You Need Both?
Having both a Web Accessibility Policy and an Accessibility Statement is important for several reasons:
1. Legal Compliance:
With laws like the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and WCAG guidelines in place, businesses must ensure their websites are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. The policy helps your business meet legal requirements internally, while the statement ensures compliance is clearly communicated to the public.
2. Transparency:
An accessibility statement makes your website users aware of the steps you’ve taken to ensure accessibility. It demonstrates transparency and shows your commitment to providing an inclusive experience for everyone.
3. Customer Trust:
By having both a policy and statement, you show that your business is not only aware of accessibility but actively working to improve and maintain it. This builds trust with your audience, particularly with users who may rely on accessible features.
4. Continuous Improvement:
A web accessibility policy sets the framework for long-term accessibility improvements. The statement, on the other hand, updates users on the current status of accessibility on your site, ensuring they are aware of any ongoing changes.
Conclusion
In short, a web accessibility policy is an internal strategy that guides your business in creating accessible websites and apps. The accessibility statement is a public document that communicates your website's accessibility features and your company’s commitment to inclusion.
By having both, you can ensure that your business is meeting legal requirements, maintaining transparency with your users, and showing your commitment to making the digital world a more inclusive place. Whether you’re just starting to focus on accessibility or are looking to improve your efforts, understanding the difference between these two documents is a key step in creating a more accessible web.
Have Questions?
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We work with our clients to simplify digital accessibility to ensure your web and digital applications are ADA compliant and accessible to all your users. If you’d like to talk about your digital accessibility, you can email us at matthew@inclusiveweb.co, leave us a note here, or schedule a call here to discuss. Let’s make the web inclusive to all!