Web Accessibility and E-commerce: A Complete Guide for Inclusive and Standard Sites

What is web accessibility and why is it important

Web accessibility means designing sites and applications so that anyone can use them, regardless of individual disabilities or limitations. In practice, an accessible site removes technical barriers that prevent interaction for people with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive disabilities. For example, it includes alternative text for images, subtitles for videos, and allows navigation by keyboard rather than only by mouse. These accommodations directly help those with disabilities, but improve the experience for all users, such as those browsing from mobile in the sun (reduced visibility) or with slow connections.

Why is accessibility critical? Here are some key reasons:

Inclusion and rights: Ensuring equitable access to online information is a basic human right. An inaccessible site excludes people as physical barriers in a building would.
Universal benefits: Many improvements designed for disability benefit all users. For example, good color contrast makes it easier for anyone to read, and a well-structured site is more usable even on small screens or different devices.
Wide user base: Making a site accessible expands the potential audience to include millions of people with disabilities. In Italy, it is estimated that nearly 13 million people have some form of disability- to ignore accessibility is to exclude a huge segment of users (over 20% of the population, also considering the aging population).
Legal requirement: Many countries mandate accessibility by law for public and (increasingly) private sites. Failure to comply exposes one to legal action and penalties. For example, in the United States a non-accessible site may violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), equating online discrimination with physical discrimination. In Italy and the EU, regulations impose precise technical standards (as we will see below), with possible fines or even site blackout in serious cases.
Image and SEO: A company that invests in inclusivity improves its reputation and brand. In addition, many accessible features (such as a clean HTML structure, descriptive text, etc.) also help with search engine rankings (SEO) and mobile device compatibility, making the site more efficient and usable for everyone.

In summary, web accessibility is not charity but a key element of quality: a moral, legal obligation and a strategic opportunity to reach more users and provide a better browsing experience.

WCAG guidelines 2.1 and 2.2: principles and levels of compliance

To help developers and designers create accessible content, there are international standards defined by the W3C (World Wide Web Consortium). The main ones are the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), currently at version 2.2. These guidelines provide a set of technical criteria that must be met for a Web site to be considered accessible.

WCAG is organized in a hierarchical structure with three main levels:

4 Founding Principles (POUR): Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust. They constitute the pillars of accessibility and divide the various recommendations into subject areas.
Guidelines: For each principle, there are guidelines that outline general accessibility goals (in WCAG 2.1 there are 13 guidelines in total).
Success criteria (success criteria): These are objectively verifiable technical requirements associated with each guideline. For example, one criterion requires a minimum contrast between text and background, another that all images have a text equivalent, etc. Each criterion has a level of importance (A, AA or AAA).

The 4 fundamental principles (POUR)

WCAG is based on four core principles, often referred to by the acronym POUR:

Perceivable (Perceivable): Information and interface components must be presented in a way that can be perceived by all users. This means, for example, providing textual alternatives to nontextual content (images, videos, controls) so that a blind user can receive such information via speech synthesis or Braille. Similarly, for audio content there must be subtitles or transcripts for deaf users.
Operable (Operable): Interface components and navigation should be usable through a variety of means. Each feature should be accessible by both mouse and keyboard or voice commands. For example, a drop-down menu should be able to be opened and navigated using only the keyboard, for those who cannot use a mouse.
Understandable (Understandable): The content and interaction mechanisms should be clear and understandable. Language should be simple and operation predictable. Forms and web pages should behave consistently (e.g., same actions produce similar results) so as not to confuse the user. Any instructions or error messages should be worded so that they are easily understood.
Robust (Robust): The content must be robust enough to be interpreted correctly by a wide range of user agents and assistive technologies. In practice, it means using standard code (HTML, ARIA) without errors, so that different browsers and screen readers can process it without problems. For example, a button should be made with standard elements (

These principles form the theoretical basis: if one of them is not met, the user will encounter a barrier. For example, a video without subtitles is not perceptible to a deaf user; a mouse-only accessible menu is not operable by keyboard-only users; overly complex language makes info unintelligible to many; nonstandard code may not be robust on some devices or assistive technologies.

Compliance Levels (A, AA, AAA)

Not all WCAG requirements have the same priority. That is why there are three levels of compliance:

Level A: is the basic (minimum) level of accessibility. Level A criteria are those considered basic; a site that does not meet them has serious barriers. For example, level A includes having alternate text for images, keyboard navigation, etc.
Level AA: is the intermediate level, which includes all of criteria A plus additional criteria (level AA) that significantly improve accessibility. Most regulations-such as Italian law and the EU directive-require compliance with level AA because it provides a good balance between accessibility and technical feasibility. Level AA includes requirements such as minimum 4.5:1 contrast for text, subtitles for recorded video, consistent navigation structures, etc..
AAA level: is the highest level, which includes all A + AA criteria plus additional criteria (AAA) for even greater accessibility. Examples of AAA are even higher contrast (7:1), simplified language, audio descriptions for videos, etc. The AAA level is not required by most laws and is often not realistically achievable for all content (some AAA criteria may be difficult to implement on certain sites). However, it represents excellence in terms of inclusiveness.

Note: Level compliance is cumulative: if a site is AA compliant, it means that it meets all Level A and Level AA criteria. Similarly AAA implies compliance with AA and A as well. In practice, the common goal is to achieve at least Level AA, while Level AAA may be an additional goal on limited sections or particularly sensitive projects.

WCAG 2.1 vs 2.2: what has changed?

WCAG 2.1 (released in 2018) have extended version 2.0 by introducing additional criteria-for example, improvements for mobile accessibility (such as support for vertical/horizontal orientation, increased focus visibility) and for users with cognitive disabilities. WCAG 2.2 were published as a W3C recommendation in October 2023 and bring 9 additional success criteria to 2.1. These new criteria aim, among other things, to:

Improve keyboard navigation: e.g., make sure that the active element via keyboard is always visible on the screen and not covered by overlay elements (Focus not obscured criterion)-this helps those navigating without a mouse not to "lose" the focus.
Facilitating interactions and authentication: for example, the Dragging movements criterion requires alternatives to drag-and-drop for users with mobility impairments; Accessible Authentication mandates login methods that do not require only memorization of information (useful for those with cognitive disabilities).
Expand clickable areas and consistent help: e.g., Target Size (Minimum) defines a minimum size for interactive elements (buttons, links) to facilitate click/tap, while Consistent Help requires that help (assistance) on a site be found consistently (always in the same place or way) so as not to disorient the user.

Importantly, all WCAG 2.1 criteria remain valid in WCAG 2.2 (except for a minor technical deprecation). Thus, those who have already made their site 2.1 compliant have only a few more requirements to implement to align with 2.2. In addition, the forthcoming WCAG 3.0 is already in development, which will be an even different and more flexible approach, but its stable adoption will take time. To date, WCAG 2.1 AA is the minimum reference standard cited in the standards, with gradual interest in WCAG 2.2 as it is incorporated into official requirements.

Practical adjustments for accessible websites and e-commerce

Moving from theory to practice, what interventions should be implemented on a website (particularly an e-commerce site) to make it accessible and compliant with WCAG 2.1/2.2 level AA? Below we look at the main aspects, with tips and examples:

1. Alternative text for images

Each informational image must have appropriate alternative text (alt attribute). The alternative text briefly describes the content or function of the image so that blind users (using screen readers) can understand what is being depicted. For example, <img src="”carrello.png”" alt=""Icon" carrello degli acquisti”> allows the screen reader to announce "shopping cart icon." Avoid vague descriptions such as "image1" or "photo"; text should be meaningful. For purely decorative images you can use empty alt (alt="") so that they are ignored by the screen reader. This expedient ensures that no visual information is lost to those who cannot see it.

2. Sufficient color contrast

Adequate color contrast between text and background is essential for readability, especially for users with impaired vision or color blindness. WCAG 2.1 level AA requires a minimum contrast of 4.5:1 for normal text (body) and 3:1 for large text (headings). This means, for example, that gray text on a very light white background will not do. There are tools that calculate the contrast (providing the ratio) to check the colors of the site. Ensuring good contrast not only helps visually impaired and color-blind people, but also improves everyone's experience in difficult conditions (screen in sunlight, poor monitors, etc.). Tip: Define colors using WCAG guides or use brand colors making sure they meet the required ratios-otherwise provide high-contrast variations for accessible mode.

3. Full keyboard navigation

An accessible site must be navigable using only the keyboard, without the need for a mouse. This is because many users with motor disabilities (or the blind) move via Tab key (to jump from one link/field to the next) and use Enter/Space to activate buttons or links. Therefore, it is critical that all links, buttons, and interactive controls be reachable and usable via Tab. In addition, while navigating with Tab, the active element should be highlighted by a visible focus indicator (such as a border or shadow) so that it is clear what is being "selected" at that moment. On many sites this style is absent or disabled via CSS: it is a good idea to keep it prominently visible (customizing the design if necessary). Also provide mechanisms such as "skip links" (hidden links at the top of the page that allow you to jump directly to the main content, avoiding having to tab through the menu on each page). Well-implemented keyboard-only navigation is crucial for users with motor disabilities, but also for power users who prefer the keyboard and for use on devices where there is no mouse.

4. Proper semantic structure and layout

Using semantic HTML and logical content structure is a cornerstone of accessibility. This means using the appropriate tags for headings, paragraphs, lists, tables, forms, etc., based on their meaning, not just their graphic appearance. For example, the main title of the page should be enclosed in a tag <h1>, subtitles in <h2>, <h3> and so on, respecting a hierarchical order. This not only allows screen readers to understand the structure of the document and navigate it easily (many screen readers can list titles to jump to sections), but also improves SEO. Similarly, recurring sections such as header, navigation menu, main content, and footer should be marked with HTML5 tags <header>, <nav>, <main>, <footer>. A good semantic structure ensures that the layout is consistent and "logical" regardless of CSS: if the site were displayed in text-only mode or via voice assistant, the elements would still make sense and have a natural order. In addition, a clean structure also makes it easier for people browsing with text magnifiers or on small screens, because they can adjust the content without losing information.

5. Support for screen reader (labels and ARIA)

Screen readers are software that transforms content into voice or Braille for blind or visually impaired users. To make a site compatible with screen readers, one must first comply with what has been said so far (alternative text, HTML semantics, etc.). In addition, ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes can be used to provide additional useful information. For example, for a non-standard interactive element (such as a custom widget in JavaScript) you can set role="button" and aria-label="Function Description" so that the screen reader announces it as a "button" with the right label. Some common use cases of ARIA: aria-label or aria-labelledby to label elements that do not have a visible ; aria-hidden="true" to mark purely decorative elements to be ignored; regions with role="navigation", role="main", etc., if you cannot use the equivalent HTML5 tags. Please note: ARIA does not replace the use of good HTML, but complements it. The golden rule is "HTML first, ARIA second." Also, it is important that dynamic content (such as popups, alerts, modals) be handled in a way that notifies the screen reader of the change (e.g., with focus management and ARIA attributes such as aria-live). In summary, each interface element should have a name, role, and status that is understandable to those using assistive technologies. By adopting these cautions, blind users can navigate and use the site effectively, hearing accurate descriptions of links, buttons, and sections.

6. Accessible forms and forms (clear labels and errors).

Forms (contact forms, registration, e-commerce checkout, etc.) require special care. Each input field must have a clear text label, associated via the tag (with its for attribute pointing to the corresponding input id). This way, the screen reader will announce the label when the focus enters the field (e.g., "Email: text field"). If for design reasons it is not possible to show a visible label, a label should still be provided for assistive technologies, such as with aria-label="Email" or using CSS classes to hide the visually but leave it accessible. In addition to labels, instructions and guidance should be provided to help the user fill out correctly (e.g., required formatting for dates, clearly marked required fields). Also crucial is handling input errors: if the user forgets a field or enters the wrong data, the error message should be clear and easily perceived. This means, for example, that it is not enough to color the field border red (a blind or color-blind user would not perceive this): explicit text such as "Error: Email field is required" must be added next to the field, perhaps linked with aria-describedby so that it is read by the screen reader. If an error field is visually highlighted, make sure there is also an icon or text for color-blind users. When possible, provide suggestions for correcting the error (e.g., "Password must be at least 8 characters"). In summary, an accessible form guides the user through completion and clearly informs them what is missing or needs to be corrected, without confusing them. This improves the user experience for everyone-who has never made a mistake filling out a form? - and ensures that no one abandons the process (e.g., purchasing) because they don't understand how to continue.

7. Accessible multimedia content

Audio-video content requires arrangements to be usable by those who cannot see or hear. Synchronized subtitles (for users who are deaf or hard of hearing) and, for more complex content, an audio-description or alternative text describing important scenes for those who cannot see should be available for each video. In practice, if the video shows something fundamental that cannot be deduced from the audio, a descriptive audio track or separate text description should be provided. For audio content (e.g., podcasts) a full text transcript should be provided so that deaf users can access the same information. In addition, media players must be accessible: controls for play/pause, volume, progress bar, etc. must be labeled correctly and usable via keyboard. Avoid players that require only mouse interactions. Also make sure that controls are visible and clear (e.g., do not rely on icons that are not labeled textually). Another aspect: if media starts automatically when the page opens (auto-play), there must be an easy way to pause or mute it, otherwise the user may be disoriented (as well as violating WCAG criteria). By implementing accessible subtitles, transcripts, and controls, we ensure that video and audio can be understood by everyone-whether it is a product presentation, a tutorial, or a recorded webinar.

8. Adjustable text size

Many users need to zoom in on text to read comfortably (think of the elderly, the visually impaired, or simply those who use small screens). An accessible site must allow text to be zoomed in to 200% without loss of functionality or information. In practice, if a user sets larger fonts (via browser or system settings), the site layout should adapt accordingly (responsive design) without elements overlapping or becoming unreadable. To achieve this, it is recommended to use relative units for fonts (such as em or rem in CSS) instead of fixed pixels. In this way, an increase of 200% in user preferences actually scales text. It is also useful to offer interface-side controls to increase/decrease text (there are scripts and plugins for this), but it is not strictly required if the site is well done and the browser can zoom without breaking anything. Tip: test the site at 200% zoom and in "high contrast" mode to see if everything remains usable. Also, check that text inside dynamic elements (such as modals, pop-up menus) can also zoom in without problems. This point is often overlooked, but it is vital to ensure readability: a site that remains usable and pleasing even with large text denotes quality and attention to each user.

9. Avoid flashing content or intermittent elements

Elements that flash rapidly (flashes) or create strobe effects can pose not only a nuisance but a danger: flashes above a certain frequency can trigger seizures in photosensitive individuals. WCAG indicates to avoid flashes more than 3 times per second. In general, it is best to avoid unnecessary flashing content altogether (aggressive animated banners, flashing GIFs, etc.). If a highlighting effect is really necessary, do it at a very low frequency and always give the user the option to pause or stop the animation. This falls under the "do not cause epilepsy or visual disturbance" criterion. In addition to the health risk, flashing elements can distract and annoy those with attention or visual impairments. Therefore, accessible design prefers safer ways to attract attention (e.g., using color or a border for highlighting rather than continuous flashing). If you embed external videos or advertisements with flash, make sure they meet these standards (otherwise better to remove or replace them). A web free of "flicker" is not only safer, but also looks more professional and less stressful for all users.

10. Clarity of language and instructions

Last but not least, the textual content must be understandable to the widest possible audience. This means using simple, direct language, avoiding complex technical jargon when not necessary. For a general audience, short, well-structured sentences improve comprehension. If the site is aimed at specialists and must include technical terms, it may be helpful to provide a glossary or explanations in the margin for more complex terms. This expedient helps people with cognitive or learning disabilities, who may have difficulty with very articulate texts, but in general it benefits everyone (especially those who read in a hurry or perhaps not in their native language). Operational instructions (e.g., "fill out this form to register") should also be written clearly, perhaps breaking actions into numbered steps if the process is lengthy. Avoid ambiguous sentences or double negatives. Also, standardize the tone and terms throughout the site: for example, do not use "shopping cart" on one page and "basket" on another to mean the same thing, otherwise the user may become confused. Clear and consistent content reduces errors, support requests, and makes the site welcoming. To check readability, there are also tools (such as the Flesch-Kincaid readability index) that analyze text-some accessibility check plugins include them. In summary, writing to be understood is not about trivially simplifying, but about making information accessible to as many people as possible, the ultimate goal of accessibility.

Italian regulations: Stanca Law and recent updates

In Italy, the reference law on digital accessibility is the so-called Stanca Law, or Law No. 4 of January 9, 2004. This law, since its origin, recognizes and protects "the right of every person to access all sources of information and related services" regardless of disability, obliging public entities (and some categories of private individuals) to adopt measures to eliminate obstacles to computer and telematic services. Initially, the Stanca Law applied mainly to the public administration and a few other entities, but over the years its scope has been expanded.

Here are the main milestones of Italian regulatory evolution:

2004: Entry into force of the Stanca Law (L.4/2004) - first Italian legislation on Web accessibility, aimed at public administrations, public economic entities, public service concessionaires and a few other categories. It already provided for the adoption of technical requirements (at the time based on WCAG 1.0) and penalties for non-compliance (for responsible PA managers).
2016/2018: European Union adopts Directive (EU) 2016/2102 On the accessibility of websites and mobile apps of public bodies. Italy implemented this directive in 2018 with Legislative Decree 106/2018, amending the Stanca Law. Since then, all Italian PA websites and apps must comply with WCAG 2.1 level AA, publish an annual Accessibility Statement, and are subject to monitoring by AgID. In practice, Italian legislation has aligned with EU standards for the public sector.
2020: With Decree Law 76/2020 (converted by L.120/2020, Simplification Decree) the subjective scope of accessibility is also extended to large private companies offering essential public interest services. In particular, companies with an average annual turnover of more than €500 million that provide essential services to the public via web or app (energy, telecommunications, transportation, financial services, healthcare, education, and even large e-commerce) are included. These so-called "private providers" are obliged (by 2022) to adapt their sites and applications to accessibility requirements similar to those of PAs, and to publish the accessibility declaration. AgID is in charge of supervising them as well, being able to impose sanctions in case of non-compliance.
2022: The most important and recent step is the implementation of Directive (EU) 2019/882, known as European Accessibility Act (EAA). Italy implemented this directive with Legislative Decree No. 82 of May 27, 2022. This legislation introduces accessibility obligations for a wide range of digital products and services in the private sector, with staggered effect by June 2025. In essence, by June 28, 2025, all new websites, e-commerce, mobile apps, ATMs, self-service terminals, ebooks, banking services, passenger services, etc., intended for the public in the EU must be accessible. Italy's Legislative Decree 82/2022 stipulated that as of June 2025 the compliance obligation also extends to small and medium-sized enterprises offering such digital services/products, exempting only micro-enterprises. In other words, not only large companies >500M€, but virtually all online businesses (over 10 employees or 2M€ turnover) will have to comply. Categories covered include: e-commerce sites, electronic communication services, audiovisual media platforms, consumer banking, air/rail/boat passenger transport, e-books and related software.

Penalties in Italy are now quite severe for those who do not comply with accessibility standards. AgID (Agenzia per l'Italia Digitale) oversees digital services, while the Ministry of Enterprise (MIMIT) oversees products. They can be imposed fines of up to 5% of annual turnover for large private individuals subject to the Stanca Law (>€500M), and Up to €40,000 for other defaulting enterprises (amount varies depending on the severity and number of users involved). In addition, authorities can order drastic measures such as website blackout or removal of the app from digital stores in cases of persistent noncompliance. As early as 2022 companies above €500M had to comply (under penalty), but from 2025 as mentioned the obligation becomes general in implementation of the EAA.

In summary, Italian regulations today require public and many private entities to comply with international guidelines (WCAG 2.1 AA, in the future WCAG 2.2) and to declare the accessibility status of their sites/apps. AgID has issued special Guidelines detailing the technical requirements to be followed and has prepared a model accessibility statement to be published annually. The emphasis is not only on the rule, but on transparency to users (who must be able to report noncompliance) and continuous improvement. For Italian digital entrepreneurs, complying is no longer optional: in addition to avoiding penalties, doing so on time by 2025 can become a competitive advantage, turning compliance into added value (accessibility as a "selling point"). As the legislature states, the ultimate goal is to ensure barrier-free accessibility of digital services for all citizens by promoting an inclusive online ecosystem.

Digital accessibility in Switzerland: state of the art

Switzerland, although not part of the EU, is also moving toward greater digital accessibility. Currently, the Swiss situation can be summarized as follows:

Public sector: Swiss federal authorities are required by law to make their digital services accessible. The federal government has adopted an Accessibility Standard eCH-0059 (version 3) that requires compliance with WCAG 2.1 level AA for government websites. This eCH-0059 standard is applied in the federal administration and also serves as a reference for cantons and municipalities. The legal basis for this lies in various Swiss regulations: art. 8 para. 2 of the Federal Constitution prohibits any discrimination toward people with disabilities; in addition, the Disabled Persons Act (LDis) and its ordinance (ODis) stipulate that federal services must be designed in an accessible manner. The Federal Law on the Use of Electronic Media (LMeCA) also requires authorities to offer accessible services to the entire population. In practice, all Swiss public administration sites must be accessible, publish an accessibility statement (as does, e.g., the FTA's site declaring WCAG 2.1 AA compliance), and are subject to monitoring. This framework is very similar to the EU framework for the public sector.
Private sector: At the present time (2025), there is still no law in Switzerland that explicitly requires all private websites to be accessible. However, the general principles of non-discrimination apply: for example, a company could incur a discrimination case if it made an online service unusable for people with disabilities (there have been parliamentary motions and discussions about this). In fact, however, unlike in the EU, there is no specific legal requirement to impose technical criteria on private sites or dedicated penalties. This may change soon: a proposal to amend the Disabled Persons Act (LDis) to promote greater inclusivity in digital as well has been submitted at the end of 2024. In addition, the arrival of the Accessibility Act in the EU is driving the momentum: many Swiss companies with international audiences will still have to adapt in order not to lose markets in the EU. In fact, if a Swiss e-commerce business sells to EU consumers, it will in fact have to comply with EAA requirements for those services, or else be excluded from those markets. The precedent of GDPR (European privacy regulation) is often cited, which prompted Switzerland to pass a similar law; something similar is expected to happen with digital accessibility. Already in 2023-2025, parliamentary work is underway to strengthen accessibility in the private sector (motions 21.3185 and 23.3582). So, observers expect that Switzerland will also adopt accessibility standards for individuals, taking into account EU developments.

In conclusion, in Switzerland for now, accessibility is mandatory for public entities (with WCAG 2.1 AA standards already in use), while a kind of moral suasion and general principles apply for individuals. Many enlightened organizations (including SMEs) are nonetheless adopting WCAG on a voluntary basis, recognizing the benefits in terms of usability and openness to customers with disabilities. It should be noted that About 21% of the Swiss population is living with a disability (Federal Statistical Office data) - a value similar to European percentages - then Ignoring accessibility means potentially excluding 1 in 5 people. For Swiss companies, adapting to international standards is not only a social responsibility, but also a way to improve online presence and reach a wider audience, as local experts point out. As the EAA comes into force in the EU, this issue is set to become increasingly relevant in the Swiss context as well ("long wave" of the EU in Switzerland). Staying ahead on this front can prepare Swiss companies for a fairer and more competitive digital future.

Overview of other relevant global regulations

In addition to Italian and Swiss regulations, it is useful to know some of the most important international standards and laws regarding digital accessibility:

European Directive 2019/882 - European Accessibility Act (EAA).: We have already discussed this in the Italian context, but in general this EU directive imposes uniform accessibility requirements for many digital products and services throughout the Single Market from June 2025. The EAA's technical reference standards are based on EN 301 549, a European standard that in turn incorporates WCAG 2.1 AA for the web part. Each EU state has its own penalties (in Italy as seen up to 5% turnover or €40k). The EAA will also impact non-EU operators who want to offer services in Europe (they must comply with the same requirements). È one of the most advanced and extensive legislation: covers web, mobile, e-readers, ATMs, ticketing machines, banking services, e-commerce, transportation, etc., with the goal of a European market without digital barriers.
ADA - Americans with Disabilities Act (USA): In the U.S., there is no specific law (yet) on the technical characteristics of websites, but the ADA (Federal Disability Discrimination Act of 1990) is interpreted broadly to include online services as well. Specifically, Title II (public entities) and Title III (establishments open to the public) of the ADA require that information and services be accessible. The U.S. Department of Justice has clarified that websites of businesses open to the public must be as accessible as their physical locations are. In the absence of an explicit legal standard, the established practice is to adopt WCAG (level AA) as the benchmark for ADA compliance. Numerous lawsuits in the U.S. against companies for non-accessible sites have been resolved by requiring compliance with WCAG criteria. In addition, Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act applies to federal government sites, which has required compliance with WCAG 2.0 AA since 2017. New web-specific legislation (regulation) is being finalized (in 2024). In summary, those operating in the U.S. should consider de facto accessibility mandatory to avoid litigation and ensure equal access opportunities.
AODA - Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (Ontario, Canada): This is one of the most advanced laws at the local level. The province of Ontario requires that websites of public entities and private businesses above a certain size be accessible according to WCAG 2.0 AA (with the exception of live subtitles and audio-descriptions). This requirement is permanently triggered as of January 1, 2021 for web content published after 2012. In practice, in Ontario schools, hospitals, but also companies with 50+ employees must have WCAG 2.0 AA compliant sites, otherwise they may receive penalties (again, there are inspection mechanisms). Canada at the federal level has enacted the Accessible Canada Act (2019) that sets accessibility goals by 2040, and several provinces have laws similar to the AODA. Those with audiences or clients in Canada (especially in the public sector or large businesses) need to take these requirements into account.
RGAA - Référentiel Général d'Accessibilité pour les Administrations (France): In France since 2005 there has been a law that obliges public websites to accessibility (Loi n°2005-102), and the RGAA is the set of official technical criteria to verify compliance. The RGAA in its current version (RGAA 4.1) is based on WCAG 2.0 (not yet 2.1) with some additional specific requirements. It provides for tests and checkpoints to be met and the publication of an accessibility statement. It is basically a detailed checklist in French aligned with WCAG. Again, the requirement applies to administrations, public bodies and some private categories (e.g., public service delegated companies). France with the EAA will also have to update the RGAA or replace it with the European standard. Meanwhile, following the WCAG is the easiest way to be compliant with the RGAA, since it forms the basis of the RGAA. Note that in France non-compliance can lead to sanctions and a public "complaint" on the ministerial website. The RGAA is an example of how a country declines international standards in its own context, and many other states have similar guidelines (in Germany the BITVs, in the UK the "Accessibility Regulations" linked to the Equality Act, in Australia the WCAG standards incorporated into the Disability Discrimination Act, etc.).

In general, the global scenario shows a convergence: WCAG as a common standard and national laws requiring its implementation. For a business owner or developer operating on an international scale, it is prudent to always follow WCAG 2.1/2.2 level AA as a minimum, as this ensures that most local (and future) regulations are met. Also, keep in mind that digital discrimination lawsuits are on the rise in several countries: anticipating compliance also means protecting yourself legally and demonstrating due diligence. Accessibility is becoming a kind of "lingua franca" of web quality around the world.

WordPress tools and plugins to improve accessibility

Adapting a site or e-commerce to accessibility requirements can seem like a complex task, but there are many tools that help developers and content editors in the process. In particular, for those using WordPress, there are dedicated plugins available that facilitate both the analysis of problems and the implementation of solutions. Below we present two well-known plugins:

"All in One Accessibility" by Skynet (WordPress Plugin).

"All in One Accessibility" by Skynet is a WordPress plugin/widget designed to quickly improve site ADA/WCAG compliance. It is a solution based on artificial intelligence and assistive technologies that adds a toolbar with a number of user-activated accessibility features to the site. Basically, once installed, an icon (usually a stylized little man or wheelchair) appears that opens a menu of options for the end user: e.g., integrated screen reader (voice reading of text), predefined accessibility profiles, text magnification, contrast and color adjustment, subtitles for videos, facilitated keyboard navigation, highlighting of links and titles, dyslexia-friendly fonts, virtual keyboard, etc.. The user can customize the experience according to his or her needs by clicking on the various options (e.g., activate high contrast mode if color-blind, or start the voice reader if visually impaired). The plugin thus focuses on the "user-triggered enhancements" approach: it leaves it up to the user to choose which aid to activate.

According to the manufacturer, this tool is aligned with major global regulations (US, UK, EU, Canada) and conforms to standards such as WCAG 2.1/2.2, Equality Act, and EN 301 549 (the European standard). The goal is to mitigate legal risk by making inclusive functionality immediately available without having to redesign the site from scratch. Indeed, Skynet claims that the use of its plugin reduces the risk of accessibility-related lawsuits, an issue heard especially in the U.S. where so-called "accessibility lawsuits" are common. From a technical point of view, installation is quick (about 5 minutes) and the plugin supports over 140 languages, thus adapting to multilingual sites as well. It exists in a free trial version and paid plans based on site traffic.

It should be noted that such solutions, often called "accessibility overlays," are debated in the community: they offer an immediate improvement, but they do not solve all source code accessibility problems. They can be useful as a supplement, but they do not replace good development practices (e.g., an image without text alt remains as such, even though the plugin may try to describe it automatically). That said, plugins like Skynet's can help existing sites immediately offer additional options to disabled users while working on final solutions. For an entrepreneur running an ecommerce business in WordPress, it might be a tool to consider: at a relatively low cost, it allows you to declare some adherence to standards and show sensitivity to inclusion (many sites display the "Accessibility Adjustments" banner as a positive sign). In conclusion, All in One Accessibility is a "first aid kit" for accessibility: it does not cure all the ills of code, but it does provide visitors with the tools to better navigate the site according to their needs.

"Accessibility Checker" by Equalize Digital (WCAG Scanner for WordPress).

"Accessibility Checker" is a plugin developed by the company Equalize Digital that serves as an automatic accessibility auditing system for WordPress sites. Unlike its predecessor, this tool does not add functionality visible to the end user, but helps developers and content editors detect and correct accessibility errors during content creation. Once installed, in fact, the plugin scans pages and posts directly in the WordPress editor and provides a report of problems found, with an indication of severity (errors or warnings). For example, while we are editing a page, in a side metabox we will see reports such as "Image X lacks ALT text" or "Insufficient contrast for text Y on background Z." This allows us to "find and fix problems on the spot" quickly, rather than discover them later via external tools.

Accessibility Checker checks more than 40 rules based on WCAG 2.1 level A/AA/AAA: thus it covers most of the criteria, from forms to links, from images to header structure. The purpose is to help make the site compliant with WCAG, ADA, Section 508, AODA and other regulations by providing continuous feedback during development. Among its stated benefits: it does not require external calls (all checking happens locally on the server, so it is GDPR compliant and does not impact site performance), and it works with major page builders (Elementor, Divi, Beaver Builder, etc.). The free version allows unlimited scans of standard posts and pages, while the Pro version adds scanning of custom post types (e.g., WooCommerce products), on-demand site-wide scans, centralized summaries of all errors found, and management features (such as ignoring certain false positives, exporting reports, etc.).

In essence, Accessibility Checker becomes like a "built-in WCAG validator" in the CMS: every time content is saved, it performs checks and guides the editor on what to fix. This reduces the need for costly corrections after the fact and, more importantly, trains the team to produce accessible content right away. For example, if an editor tries to publish an article with a nondescript image, he or she will see the error and learn to always include the alternative text. This proactive approach is strongly recommended by experts, because building accessibility by-design is more effective than "fixing" it later. The plugin, also recommended by IAAP-certified professionals, can be seen as part of a quality workflow: similar to built-in spell-checks or SEO, there is now accessibility checking.

For a developer or agency building WordPress sites, tools such as Accessibility Checker help ensure legal compliance (preventing gross errors from going unnoticed) and demonstrate to clients attention to these issues. A site created with the support of Accessibility Checker has a good chance of already adhering to the required standards (AA level is often easily achieved on all textual content). Clearly, not everything can be automated (for example, assessing the clarity of language or the appropriateness of alternative text requires human judgment), but the plugin covers most of the objective requirements.

In conclusion, Equalize Digital Accessibility Checker is the ideal "insider" tool for those who want to make accessibility a daily development practice. Coupled with manual testing with real users and possible professional audits on the more complex details, it offers a solid starting point for having WordPress sites that not only look and perform well, but are also inclusive and law-abiding.

Conclusions

Web accessibility is no longer optional or niche: it has become an integral part of what it means to design quality digital experiences. As we have seen, investing in accessibility brings cross-cutting benefits: it includes millions more potential customers, improves overall usability, reinforces the brand as thoughtful and innovative, and keeps the business safe from penalties or litigation. For digital entrepreneurs and developers, adopting the WCAG guidelines and following the best practices described means putting users at the center, all users no one excluded.

Of course, achieving high compliance requires effort: sometimes you have to correct pre-existing code, change design or revise some flows. But there is no shortage of tools to support this - from automatic validators, to WordPress plugins such as those mentioned, to specialized consulting services. The important thing is to start right from the beginning: for example, by conducting an initial accessibility audit of your site to understand the critical points, then planning the necessary adjustments (perhaps starting with WCAG level A/AA priorities), involving the team in specific training, and providing for ongoing verification with each new piece of content or functionality.

It is worth remembering that accessibility is not a one-time checklist to be met, but a continuous process of improvement. Technologies evolve, as do user needs. Maintaining an accessible site also means keeping up to date with new versions of standards (such as WCAG 2.2 and beyond) and regulations. It means testing periodically with real users, because no automated test can replace the direct feedback of a blind, deaf or dyslexic person trying to use your e-commerce. Ultimately, it means adopting an inclusive design philosophy: from initial conception to minor content updates, always ask yourself, "Is this element usable by everyone?"

In a world where digital permeates every aspect of life (from shopping to work, from education to public services), ensuring accessibility is an ethical duty and a contribution to a more equitable society. But it is also-as we have pointed out-a smart business and development strategy. Companies and professionals who move early on this front gain a competitive advantage and demonstrate leadership. As a famous saying by Tim Berners-Lee (inventor of the Web) goes, "The power of the Web is in its universality. Access by everyone, regardless of disability, is an essential aspect"-the power of the Web is in its universality. Making it truly for everyone is our job, and that is what will ultimately make the Web a better place.

Sources and references used

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