Digital Accessibility
Digital accessibility refers to the ability of someone with a disability to use websites, documents, multimedia, applications, and other types of digital content independently, with substantially equivalent ease of use as someone without a disability. It ensures equal opportunity of access to information. Because we are all content creators to some degree, the campus digital accessibility policy affects us all.
Digital accessibility at UW-Madison is entering a new phase that aligns with a federal ruling under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that requires digital resources used in university programs, services, or activities to be accessible starting in April 2026.
Why should you care about digital accessibility?
- It's the right thing to do
- It's an important component of our mission of creating a welcoming and inclusive community for everyone
- It's our policy
- All users benefit
Compliance with the campus digital accessibility policy and federal requirements relies on shared responsibility. As a large, decentralized institution, it's up to all of us to follow good digital accessibility practices.
What Content is Affected by the Digital Accessibility Policy?
Basically, any type of digital content. Examples include:
- Websites
- Emails
- Apps
- Videos
- Social media
- Online course content
- PDFs
- Word documents
- Google Docs
- PowerPoints
- InDesign files
If you create any type of content, it is your responsibility to strive for conformance with the digital accessibility policy and federal requirements.
Digital Accessibility Liaison
Eric Klister (eklister@wisc.edu), web operations manager, is the Nelson Institute's digital accessibility liaison. Liaisons serve as the primary contact for understanding how to follow the policy and work with the Center for User Experience to develop a proactive approach to accessibility and rectify any reported barriers.
Liaisons can provide guidance on accessibility concerns and help you follow best practices. They do not act as compliance officers and are not responsible for legal oversight.
Campus Digital Accessibility Resources
- UW-Madison digital accessibility policy
- Digital Accessibility at UW-Madison (background, FAQs, and policy implementation updates)
- Make it Accessible (tools and guides for making digital content accessible)