With the entry into force of Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) From June 2025, digital accessibility will become a central obligation for companies. The law requires companies to design their digital offerings, such as websites and apps, in such a way that they accessible to all people are — independent of physical or cognitive limitations. This requirement is not just a legal obligation , but also offers the opportunity to reach a wider target group and improve the overall user experience.
In this article, we highlight the main obligations that companies must comply with before and after the BFSG comes into force. We'll show you which steps should be taken now to be well prepared and give you practical tips on how to implement the accessibility requirements. This ensures that your company meets legal requirements and at the same time benefits from the benefits of a barrier-free digital presence.
Preparations before the BFSG comes into force
The introduction of the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) entails new obligations for many companies, which should be tackled even before the Act officially comes into force. Early preparation is crucial to ensure that all digital offerings are made barrier-free in good time. Here are the most important steps that companies should take before the BFSG comes into force:
Inventory of current digital offerings and implementation of an accessibility check
The first step is to carry out a comprehensive inventory of all the company's digital offerings. This includes websites, mobile apps, digital documents, and all other online presences. An accessibility check helps to assess the current situation and identify weak points. Both technical and content-related aspects of accessibility should be considered. Such control can be carried out internally, but it is advisable to bring in external experts to obtain an objective assessment.
Training and raising awareness of employees in relevant departments
In order to successfully implement the requirements of the BFSG, it is crucial that all relevant employees have the necessary knowledge. Therefore, training should be organized for employees in the areas of IT, web development, design and content creation. This training should cover regulatory requirements, accessibility best practices, and the use of tools and technologies to verify and implement accessibility. It is also important to raise awareness throughout the company of the importance of accessibility and to promote a culture of inclusion.
Preparation of a detailed implementation plan with priorities and time frame
Based on the results of accessibility control and training, a detailed implementation plan should be developed. This plan should set clear priorities to ensure that the most critical areas are addressed first. For example, public websites or apps that are visited by a large number of users could be adjusted first. The plan should also include specific objectives and time frames for implementation so that all measures are completed in good time before the law comes into force. It is important to regularly review progress and, if necessary, adjust the plan to ensure that all requirements are met on time.
Obligations following the entry into force of the BFSG
As soon as the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) comes into force, companies are required to continuously ensure that their digital offerings meet legal requirements. This requires not only one-time adjustments, but also ongoing reviews and adjustments to ensure that accessibility is always guaranteed. Here are the main obligations that companies must comply with after the BFSG comes into force:
Continuous review and adaptation of digital offerings for accessibility
After the BFSG comes into force, it is crucial that companies regularly review their digital offerings to ensure that they continue to meet the requirements. This includes continuous monitoring of websites, mobile apps, and other digital content. Companies should ensure that all new content and updates are made barrier-free and that existing content is regularly checked for accessibility. This can be done by using automated accessibility testing tools as well as manual checks to ensure that no issues are missed.
Documentation of all measures and verification requirements for regulatory audits
An important obligation following the entry into force of the BFSG is the thorough documentation of all measures to ensure accessibility. Companies must be able to prove that they have taken the necessary steps to make their digital offerings barrier-free. This includes recording audits, training, implementations, and regular reviews carried out. Companies should also provide an accessible accessibility statement on their website that is easily accessible to the public. This statement should explain accessibility measures and include contact details for feedback or complaints. Companies should be prepared to provide comprehensive evidence during regulatory audits.
Inclusion of user feedback to constantly improve accessibility
Compliance with accessibility standards requires continuous adjustment and improvement. One of the most effective ways to identify problems and potential improvements is to incorporate user feedback. Companies should provide simple and accessible feedback channels that users can use to report accessibility issues. This feedback should be taken seriously and incorporated into the ongoing maintenance and improvement of digital offerings. Regular reviews and adjustments based on user feedback help to keep accessibility at a high level and improve the user experience.
Compliance with these obligations after the BFSG comes into force is crucial in order to minimize legal risks and create an inclusive digital environment for all users. By monitoring, documenting and incorporating feedback, companies can ensure that their digital offerings are always barrier-free and comply with legal requirements.
Practical tips for implementing commitments
Compliance with the requirements of the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) can be a complex task for companies. To ensure that your digital offerings comply with legal requirements, it is important to apply practical measures and strategies. Here are some useful tips to help you effectively implement the BFSG obligations.
Collaboration with accessibility experts and specialized agencies
While internal teams may be able to identify and fix fundamental accessibility issues, it often makes sense to bring in digital accessibility experts. These experts have in-depth knowledge of legal requirements and proven methods for implementing accessibility. They can not only help implement accessibility measures, but also develop long-term strategies.
In addition, specialized agencies that focus on accessibility can provide valuable assistance. The agencies have extensive experience in implementing barrier-free websites and applications and can offer tailor-made solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of your company.
Regular training and updates to keep up with the latest standards
Accessibility is a constantly evolving field as technology and regulatory requirements are constantly changing. To ensure that your company always meets the latest standards, it is important to regularly train employees and inform them about new developments.
Organize training that teaches the latest accessibility best practices and ensure that all relevant departments are aware of changes in law or standards. This training should be practical and provide specific guidance on how to implement accessibility requirements.
In addition, digital offerings should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that they comply with the latest accessibility standards. This can be done by implementing a continuous monitoring process that ensures that every new feature or update is checked for accessibility before it goes live.
By applying these practical tips, companies can ensure that they not only comply with the legal requirements of the BFSG, but also create a barrier-free and user-friendly digital environment for all users.
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