Digital Accessibility

What does the term “web a11y” mean?

“Web a11y” is shorthand for “web accessibility,” which refers to the practice of designing websites, apps, and digital content so that they can be used by people of varying physical and cognitive abilities. The term “web a11y” helps to identify content on the internet related specifically to digital accessibility.

What is in this checklist

This checklist is designed to help web developers, content creators, and designers ensure their digital materials meet federal accessibility standards. It outlines key areas to review when building or updating websites, designing graphics, and publishing content online. Whether you manage a website, create documents, or post on social media, this resource can help you ensure everything is accessible to all users.

Why this is important

In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) released a new rule updating Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), clarifying that digital content must be accessible.

Public universities like Rutgers are now required to proactively comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA by April 24, 2026, with limited exceptions. The DOJ has created an ADA Title II Fact Sheet, to help you learn more about these changes. To align with these federal standards, Rutgers is also in the process of updating its Website Accessibility Policy (Policy 70.1.5).

What is covered under the requirements

These requirements apply to all “information and experiences available on the web, like text, images, sounds, videos, and documents.” This includes but is not limited to:

• Any university websites (regardless of if you build it, or pay a third party to do so—i.e., Rutgers Cancer Institute of NJ)
• Email communications sent (i.e., mass email sent via Constant Contact)
• Software used by students, employees, or staff (i.e., a project management tool your staff might use like Asana)
• Training materials or videos used during onboarding (i.e., new employee training videos)
• Any mobile apps developed or used by the community (i.e., the Speed Queen App, used to operate/pay for the laundry machines on campus)
• Any documents you have on your websites (i.e., annual reports or PDFs on your website)
• Course content in Canvas (or other LMS)
• Social media outlets like Facebook