508-WCAG 2.2 Advanced Documents Series

For Employers who create in-house documents that need to meet WCAG 508 compliance.

Learn how to do it yourself, or uplevel your workforce skills.

Section 508, by incorporating WCAG guidelines, serves as a crucial framework for creating a more inclusive and accessible digital world for all users. It’s not just a legal requirement but a fundamental practice that fosters digital inclusion and provides significant benefits to organizations and individuals alike.

1. Ensures Equal Access for People with Disabilities:

• Legal Mandate: Section 508 is a federal law in the U.S. that mandates that federal agencies and organizations receiving federal funding ensure their electronic and information technology (ICT) is accessible to people with disabilities.
• Removes Barriers: This means websites, software, documents (like PDFs), and other digital content used by federal agencies must be designed to accommodate individuals with various disabilities, including visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments.
• Empowerment: By adhering to Section 508 standards, people with disabilities have the opportunity to access information, participate in government services, and perform job duties effectively, leading to greater independence and inclusion. 

2. Promotes Usability for Everyone:

• Improved User Experience: Many accessibility features implemented for Section 508 compliance, such as clear navigation, sufficient color contrast, and keyboard operability, benefit all users, regardless of ability.
• Broader Audience Reach: By making digital content accessible, organizations can reach and engage a wider audience, increasing engagement and satisfaction.
• Better Maintainability and SEO: Accessible websites are often easier to maintain and inherently more mobile-friendly, contributing to improved search engine optimization. 

3. Reduces Legal Risk and Enhances Reputation:

• Compliance with Laws: Failing to comply with Section 508 can lead to legal consequences, including fines and lawsuits, especially for organizations that work with or receive funding from the federal government.
• Demonstrates Commitment to Inclusion: Prioritizing accessibility demonstrates a commitment to corporate social responsibility, enhancing an organization’s reputation and fostering trust with customers and the public. 

4. Drives Innovation:

• “Curb Cut Effect”: Designing technology with accessibility in mind often leads to innovations that benefit everyone, not just people with disabilities, a phenomenon known as the “Curb Cut Effect”.