Tino Favetto brings his extensive UI/UX expertise in eCommerce, specializing in OXID eShops and websites. His focus lies on performance, accessibility, and mobile-first design. He is dedicated to customer-centric solutions that prioritize performance and user-friendliness. Additionally, he serves as the site manager in Mönchengladbach.
Steffi Greuel and Tino Favetto in dialogue about accessibility in online commerce
Steffi: Tino, could you explain why web accessibility is important?
Tino: It's actually quite simple. Accessibility in online commerce is crucial to ensure that people with diverse needs have unrestricted access to digital platforms. In Germany, accessible websites, easily understandable content, and intuitive navigation are crucial for an inclusive online experience. Accessibility provides the opportunity to make online shops accessible to all individuals, thus reaching a significantly larger customer base.
Steffi: Who exactly are affected by these barriers on a website?
Tino: A misconception is that compliance with accessibility standards is only relevant for people with disabilities, which comprise approximately 10% of the population in Germany. However, the target audience is much larger because it includes older individuals, people in noisy environments, and individuals with temporary impairments such as an injury.
Anyone who has ever had a broken arm has probably noticed that many websites are not so easy to use.
Steffi: Yes, I'm familiar with that too. And how does ESYON promote accessibility on the internet?
Tino: At ESYON, we implement accessible online platforms according to legal requirements through targeted measures and technological solutions. And as a bonus, Google appreciates it too. The international standard for accessible web content is called WCAG, which defines the requirements and is divided into levels A, AA, and AAA. At ESYON, we adhere to Level AA as a mandatory standard.
Steffi: I see, so there are clear legal requirements. How can companies implement accessible measures in online commerce?
Tino: By ensuring good contrasts, scalable font sizes, and the ability to navigate the website using only the keyboard... There are many measures that can and must be implemented to make a website accessible. I believe conducting a prior analysis of the current state is sensible.
Steffi: From when will accessibility become mandatory for online shops and digital platforms?
Tino: In Germany, it becomes mandatory from June 2025. By the way, in Italy, this requirement has been in place since 2022. I recommend checking your own online shop early to ensure that it meets all accessibility requirements.
Steffi: Do you have any final thoughts on promoting accessibility on the internet?
Tino: I look forward to continuing to create an inclusive online world that is accessible to everyone.