What are the four principles of accessibility?

From June 28, 2025, it is mandatory under the European Accessibility Act (EAA) to make websites and apps accessible. But what does this mean?

From June 28, 2025, it is mandatory under the European Accessibility Act (EAA) to make websites and apps accessible. But what does this mean? You may only be hearing about it for the first time. digital accessibility, so where do you start? In this blog, we'll help you get started!

To ensure that everyone — including people with disabilities — can use your website or app, international guidelines have been drawn up: the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These guidelines are based on four core principles that form the basis for an accessible digital environment. Together, these principles are referred to as POUR: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust.

The four principles of accessibility

1. Perceivable

Information and user interface elements must be presented in a way that is perceptible to all users. This means that everyone — regardless of visual, auditory, or other disabilities — must be able to see the content.

Practical applications:

Alternate texts (alt texts)

Describe images so that screen readers can interpret them for blind or visually impaired users.

Subtitles and transcripts

Add subtitles to videos and transcripts to audio files for the hearing impaired.

Color contrast

Make sure there is sufficient contrast between text and background so that texts are readable for people with a visual impairment.

At Xuntos, we check whether your website meets these requirements and help implement solutions.

2. Operable

All functionalities of a website or app must be easy to use, regardless of the device or tool used. This principle mainly focuses on users with motor disabilities or people who navigate with a keyboard or other aids.

Practical applications:

Keyboard navigation

Make sure that all functions are accessible via a keyboard.

Clear navigation

Use consistent navigation menus and add a search function.

Interaction timers

Give users enough time to use forms or other interactive elements.

Our developers at Xuntos ensure that your website is fully operable, no matter what tools your visitors use.

3. Understandable

The information on a website and how the interface works must be understandable to all users. This principle prevents confusion and makes interaction easier, especially for people with cognitive disabilities.

Practical applications:

Simple language

Use short sentences and avoid jargon to keep information accessible.

Consistent interface

Keep buttons and navigation consistent so users know what to expect.

Feedback and error messages

Provide clear feedback when forms are entered incorrectly and offer solutions.

At Xuntos, we help you optimize your content and interface so that everyone understands the message.

4. Robust

Digital products must be robust enough to work well on various devices, browsers, and with various tools, such as screen readers. This principle ensures that your website is future-proof.

Practical applications:

Semantic HTML

Use correct HTML structures so that assistive technologies can interpret content properly.

Compatibility

Test your website across browsers, devices, and screen readers.

Updates and maintenance

Make sure your website is updated regularly to keep up with new technologies and standards.

Our technical experts ensure that your website is and remains robust, so that all users — now and in the future — have an optimal experience.

Why are the four principles important?

Applying the four principles of accessibility is not only an obligation, but also an opportunity. By following these principles:

Expand your reach

An accessible website appeals to a wider audience, including people with disabilities.

Are you improving the user experience

Accessibility solutions make your website easier and easier to use for everyone.

Do you comply with legislation?

With the arrival of the European Accessibility Act (EAA), accessibility will be required by law from 2025.

Show your social responsibility

Accessibility shows that your company is committed to inclusiveness and equal opportunities.

How Xuntos can help

At Xuntos, we specialize in Umbraco CMS and applying the four principles of accessibility. Our services include:

Accessibility checks

Analysis of your website to identify areas for improvement.

Technical and content solutions

From alt texts to keyboard navigation, we help with implementation

Guidance and advice

We support you in creating a digital environment that meets the strictest standards and is user-friendly.

Make your website accessible to everyone

Digital accessibility according to the four principles is essential for an inclusive and user-friendly website. Do you want to know how your website scores on accessibility and where you can improve? Contact Xuntos for a free accessibility check or consultation.

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