The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the internationally recognized standards for designing digital content that is usable by everyone—including 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 ensure their websites and digital tools are accessible, inclusive, and legally compliant.
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 helps make sure that everyone, regardless of ability, can perceive, understand, navigate, and contribute to the web.
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 proper HTML structure and avoid code errors.
These four principles serve as the foundation of all WCAG success criteria, which are organized into three levels of conformance: A (minimum), AA (mid-range and most common standard for legal compliance), and AAA (highest accessibility level).
Learn more
To dive deeper into the guidelines and how they apply to your content, visit the