Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
What Is Section 508?
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires U.S. federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. This includes websites, PDFs, software, videos, and more.
Section 508 ensures that all individuals-including those with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive disabilities-can access and use digital government resources.
Why Section 508 Compliance Matters
Section 508 isn’t just a guideline-it’s a federal mandate. Agencies that don’t comply risk legal action, loss of public trust, and reduced usability for large groups of users.
By focusing on accessibility, agencies:
- Serve the public more effectively
- Improve user experience for everyone
- Demonstrate leadership in digital inclusion
Section 508 and Web Accessibility
Section 508 is closely connected to web accessibility. It requires federal agencies to remove digital barriers that may prevent users with disabilities from accessing content and services.
To meet these standards, most agencies follow the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). WCAG offers clear technical guidance for:
- Structuring content with headings and lists
- Adding alt text to images and charts
- Ensuring keyboard access and strong color contrast
Section 508 Explained in Simple Terms
This video provides a straightforward overview of how Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act ensures digital accessibility. It simplifies the core principles, making them accessible to all viewers.
Four Accessibility Hacks for Section 508 Success
Design for All
Embrace universal design principles to ensure accessibility for everyone, not just those with disabilities.
Automated Assistance
Explore automated accessibility testing tools to streamline the compliance process and catch common issues quickly.
User-Centric Solutions
Involve individuals with disabilities in usability testing to gain valuable insights and refine your digital products for better accessibility.
Continuous Improvement
Adopt a mindset of continuous improvement, iterating on your digital offerings to address accessibility barriers and enhance user experience over time.
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