Digital accessibility: why it is a shared responsibility
Digital accessibility is not the responsibility of one person or department. What if IT gets everything right, but communication remains inaccessible? Or if software is purchased without considering accessibility?
Written by Frits Karskens (accessibility expert)
Digital accessibility is often seen as an additional task for the webmaster or a small group of specialists within an organization. But accessibility is not a one-off action or a checklist; it is a shared responsibility that must be deeply embedded in an organization's work processes. Without a joint effort, accessibility remains vulnerable and dependent on a few ambassadors. How do you ensure that digital accessibility does not remain a separate effort, but becomes a structural part of your organization?
Accessibility fails at one weak link
An organization is like a chain: every department and every employee is a link. If one link breaks, the whole thing fails. Even if the webmaster or IT department is fully committed to digital accessibility, a lack of involvement from other departments can result in the purchase of inaccessible software, failure to implement policy measures, or communication that is not clear and understandable.
Consider, for example:
- Procurement departments that do not set accessibility requirements when purchasing software and systems.
- Policymakers who do not structurally incorporate accessibility, making it a non-binding choice.
- Communication teams that use overly complicated language, thereby excluding many people.
- Developers and designers who do not take accessibility guidelines into account, making digital platforms difficult to use for people with disabilities.
When all links work together, digital accessibility becomes a natural part of the organization and not just a separate effort.
Why accessibility does not happen automatically
Many offices have a fitness room. The facilities are there, but only a small proportion of employees actively use them. These are the pioneers, the ambassadors of a healthy lifestyle. They inspire others, but most colleagues continue to watch without taking action themselves.
The same principle applies to digital accessibility. In every organization, there are a few enthusiastic frontrunners who embrace and promote accessibility. But without broader awareness and structural embedding, accessibility remains dependent on these few ambassadors. Real impact only occurs when accessibility is as self-evident as other work processes. This requires repetition, guidance, and a culture in which digital accessibility is the norm for everyone.
From isolated efforts to structural improvement
Digital accessibility is not a project with an end date. It is not a one-time action that you complete and then forget about. Think of it as a muscle: without training, it weakens, and starting over every time is inefficient.
By taking small steps continuously, you build up a rhythm in which accessibility becomes increasingly self-evident. Small adjustments lead to major progress. Ultimately, accessibility becomes part of your organization's DNA. Without structural embedding, it remains a separate effort—and that's a shame.
How Shift2 helps with a sustainable approach
Just as a sports coach helps you achieve your goals, improve your technique, and stay motivated, Shift2 supports organizations in digital accessibility. With a structured approach, Shift2 ensures that accessibility becomes a permanent priority rather than a one-time effort.
Shift2 assists organizations with:
- Understanding the WCAG guidelines and how to apply them to your digital environment.
- Technical support such as accessibility audits and user testing.
- Guidance on implementing accessibility within your work processes.
- Tools and dashboards to make accessibility measurable and transparent.
- Practical support, such as making PDFs accessible, drawing up an accessible procurement request, and mapping out your organization's online landscape.
Every organization has different needs. Some organizations start with an accessibility scan as a starting point, while others immediately work on a structural approach with policy and training. Shift2 not only helps organizations with the first step, but above all with the sustainable integration of digital accessibility.
Take the first step today
Want to improve accessibility structurally, without having to start over every time? Schedule a free introductory meeting and discover what Shift2 can do for your organization.
