The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are internationally recognized standards for making web content more accessible to people with disabilities. These guidelines are developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) through its Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). WCAG provides a framework to help developers, designers, content creators, and organizations apply accessibility principles to websites and digital content.
Why WCAG Matters
Accessibility is essential for equal access. People with disabilities may use screen readers, voice commands, alternative keyboards, or other assistive technologies to interact with websites and digital tools. WCAG provides guidance for making web content more accessible to people with disabilities, including people who use assistive technologies.
Digital accessibility benefits not only individuals with permanent disabilities, but also those with temporary impairments (e.g., a broken arm), situational limitations (e.g., bright sunlight), or aging-related conditions.
The Four Principles of WCAG: POUR
WCAG is built around four core principles. Content must be:
- Perceivable
Information and user interface elements must be presented in ways users can perceive.
Example: Use text alternatives for images and ensure sufficient color contrast. - Operable
Users must be able to operate interface components and navigate the content.
Example: Make all functionality keyboard accessible. - Understandable
The interface and information must be clear and predictable.
Example: Use simple language and consistent navigation. - Robust
Content must be compatible with current and future assistive technologies.
Example: Use code and markup that support compatibility with browsers and assistive technologies.
These four principles serve as the foundation of the WCAG success criteria, which are organized into three levels of conformance: Level A, Level AA, and Level AAA. WCAG 2.1 Level AA is the technical standard established by the ADA Title II web accessibility rule applicable to public universities.
Learn more
To learn more about WCAG and how to apply the guidelines, explore these W3C resources: