What Is Digital Accessibility?

Digital accessibility refers to the design and development of digital content, applications and services that are usable by all people, including those with disabilities. It ensures that websites, mobile apps, electronic documents and other digital tools are accessible to individuals who may use assistive technologies such as screen readers, magnifiers or alternative input devices. 

As state employees, it’s our duty to ensure that the content we produce is accessible to all North Carolinians, including those who rely on assistive technology in their daily lives. 

Why Is Digital Accessibility Important?

  • Equal Access: Digital accessibility promotes equal access to information and services for people with disabilities. It ensures that everyone can participate fully in the digital world.
  • Compliance: The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued its final rule revising the regulation implementing Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) to establish specific requirements including the adoption of specific technical standards, for making digitally accessible the services, programs, and activities offered by state and local government entities to the public through the web and mobile applications (“apps”).
  • Enhanced User Experience: Accessible design often leads to improved usability for all users, not just those with disabilities. For example, features such as captions, alt text and clear navigation can benefit everyone.

The following resources are available to help all digital content creators in North Carolina state government comply with the DOJ ruling by April 24, 2026.

Best Practices for Creating Accessible Digital Content

General guidelines for anyone creating digital content for the state of North Carolina

 

Standards & Rulings

Digital Accessibility Planning

Digital Accessibility Checklist

A checklist can help keep track of items to consider when creating digital content:

Training

Creating Accessible Content: Writing for the Web is the first installment of a new learning series that aims to help you make your website accessible to all visitors. The training is available in two formats, an instructor-led session (ILT) and an online version (OLT) through the state's Learning Management System (LMS).

A11y Community of Practice

The N.C. Digital Accessibility Community of Practice (A11y CoP) is a collaborative forum where individuals with a common interest in digital accessibility come together to share insights, expertise and best practices. Through regular meetings, presentations and online discussions, members contribute to a collective pool of knowledge, ultimately promoting a culture of accessibility that transcends individual expertise and benefits the broader community. 

Join the A11y CoP

 

A11y Presentations

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