What is BS EN 16735:2020?

BS EN 16735:2020 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for the creation and management of digital content. It aims to enhance the accessibility and usability of online information, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access and interact with web-based content effectively.

The Importance of BS EN 16735:2020

In today's digital age, where technology plays an integral role in our lives, it is essential to ensure that everyone can access and benefit from the vast amount of digital content available. BS EN 16735:2020 promotes inclusivity by setting standards for those designing websites, software, and applications, urging them to consider the needs of all users, regardless of their abilities.

By adhering to these guidelines, organizations can make their digital content accessible to individuals with visual, auditory, physical, or cognitive impairments. This includes providing alternative text for images, captions for videos, and utilizing proper structure and formatting to facilitate screen reader navigation.

BS EN 16735:2020 in Practice

Implementing BS EN 16735:2020 involves a range of considerations to ensure that digital content meets the required standards. Here are some key areas covered by the standard:

Structure and Navigation: Websites and applications should provide clear headings, logical organization, and intuitive navigation, allowing users to understand and navigate through content easily.

Text Alternatives: Images, graphs, and multimedia elements should be accompanied by descriptive text, enabling individuals who use screen readers or have visual impairments to understand the context.

Color Contrast: Sufficient contrast between text and background colors enhances readability for individuals with visual impairments. It is important to ensure that text is easily discernible and distinguishable from its surroundings.

Keyboard Navigation: Websites should be designed to allow full accessibility using only a keyboard, ensuring that individuals who are unable to use a mouse can still interact with the content effectively.

The Benefits of BS EN 16735:2020 Compliance

By adhering to the guidelines set forth in BS EN 16735:2020, organizations can reap several benefits:

Improved User Experience: By making websites and applications accessible to all users, organizations can provide an enhanced user experience while fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities for all individuals.

Legal Compliance: Many countries have laws and regulations in place that require digital content to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. By complying with BS EN 16735:2020, organizations ensure legal obligations are met.

Expanded Customer Base: By making digital content accessible, organizations can reach a larger audience, including individuals with disabilities, thus expanding their customer base and potential market.

Corporate Social Responsibility: Adhering to accessibility standards demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility, enhancing an organization's reputation and brand image.

In conclusion, BS EN 16735:2020 plays a vital role in shaping the accessibility and usability of online content. By following the guidelines outlined in this technical standard, organizations can create digital content that is inclusive and available to individuals of all abilities, enabling equal access to information and services in our increasingly digital world.