EN 301 549 Compliance: Accessibility Standards for ICT in Europe

What is EN 301 549?

EN 301 549 is the European standard specifying accessibility requirements for Information and Communication Technology (ICT). It ensures digital products and services are accessible to individuals with disabilities throughout the EU.

Official resource: ETSI EN 301 549 Overview

Why is EN 301 549 Compliance Important?

Compliance with EN 301 549 ensures accessibility, equal participation, and inclusion of all users. It reduces legal and reputational risks, enhances user satisfaction, and promotes widespread digital accessibility across Europe.

Detailed explanation: EU Digital Guidelines

Who Must Comply with EN 301 549?

• Public sector organizations within the EU
• ICT providers delivering products or services to public bodies
• Private organizations supplying ICT solutions to EU institutions

Key Requirements of EN 301 549

• Accessible Web Content: Compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines.
• Software Accessibility: ICT software must be operable and understandable by all users.
• Documentation and Support: Providing accessible formats for documentation and user support.
• Accessibility in Procurement: Public procurement processes must include accessibility criteria.

Full criteria: EN 301 549 Standards

Legal Risks of Non-Compliance

Failure to meet EN 301 549 standards can result in legal actions, loss of market opportunities, and damage to reputation. Proactive compliance management significantly reduces these risks.

Reference: EU Web Accessibility Directive

How Our Platform Supports EN 301 549 Compliance

Our platform simplifies EN 301 549 compliance through automated accessibility assessments, ongoing monitoring, dynamic remediation of accessibility issues, and seamless integration into existing ICT infrastructure.

Best Practices for Continuous EN 301 549 Compliance

• Regular accessibility audits of ICT products and services.
• Comprehensive staff training on EN 301 549 compliance.
• Proactive updates to align with evolving accessibility standards.
• Consistent incorporation of accessibility criteria in procurement.