WCAG FAQ
Web Accessibility Guidelines Explained
Frequently asked questions about WCAG compliance, testing, and implementation.
Q: What is WCAG and how does it affect web design?
WCAG stands for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines — a set of international standards developed by the W3C to make websites accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities such as visual impairments, hearing loss, or cognitive challenges. For web designers, WCAG acts as a practical framework that shapes decisions around color contrast, font sizes, keyboard navigation, alt texts for images, and much more. Following WCAG doesn’t limit creativity — it raises the quality of your design for all users, not just those with disabilities.
Q: What are the WCAG guidelines for websites?
WCAG is organized around four core principles, often referred to as POUR: websites must be Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust. Each principle contains specific success criteria rated at three levels — A (minimum), AA (standard), and AAA (enhanced). Most organizations and legal requirements aim for WCAG 2.1 Level AA, which covers essentials like sufficient color contrast, accessible forms, keyboard navigation, and meaningful link text. WCAG 2.2, released in 2023, adds further criteria particularly benefiting users with cognitive and motor disabilities.
Q: How can I test my website for WCAG compliance?
Testing for WCAG compliance combines automated tools with manual review. Start with free automated tools like Axe, WAVE, or Google Lighthouse — they can instantly flag common issues such as missing alt texts or low color contrast. However, automated tools catch only around 30–40% of accessibility issues. For thorough testing, combine automation with keyboard-only navigation testing, screen reader testing (using NVDA or VoiceOver), and ideally usability testing with real users who have disabilities. A professional WCAG audit covers all these layers systematically.
Q: How do I get help with WCAG adaptation of my website?
If your website needs WCAG improvements, the process typically starts with an accessibility audit that identifies gaps against your target level (usually WCAG 2.1 AA). From there, a developer or accessibility specialist implements fixes — ranging from code adjustments to design changes and content updates. Many companies choose to work with a dedicated accessibility consultant or agency that can guide both the technical fixes and help build long-term accessibility into the design process. Ongoing support is valuable, as websites change frequently and accessibility needs to be maintained over time.
Q: What tools are available for WCAG testing?
There are both free and paid tools available depending on your needs:
- Axe DevTools — browser extension for developers, highly accurate
- WAVE — visual feedback tool, great for beginners
- Google Lighthouse — built into Chrome, gives accessibility scores
- Colour Contrast Analyser — desktop tool for checking color contrast ratios
- Siteimprove / Monsido — enterprise platforms for continuous monitoring
- Screen readers — NVDA (free, Windows), JAWS (paid), VoiceOver (built into Apple devices)
Not sure where your website stands today? Use our free WCAG scoring tool to instantly test your website and get a clear picture of what needs to be fixed.
No single tool covers everything — the best practice is combining at least two automated tools with manual checks.
Q: Which Swedish companies offer WCAG adaptation services?
Q: Which Swedish companies offer WCAG adaptation services?
Several Swedish agencies and consultancies specialize in digital accessibility and WCAG compliance. When choosing a partner, look for companies with documented experience in accessibility audits, certified accessibility specialists (such as CPACC or WAS credentials), and references from similar projects.
Swedish public sector organizations are legally required to follow WCAG 2.1 AA under the Lagen om tillgänglighet till digital offentlig service (DOS-lagen), which has driven significant growth in Swedish accessibility expertise.
At Devies, we help organizations navigate exactly this — from initial accessibility audits to full WCAG adaptation of your website. We work with both private companies and public sector clients who need to meet legal requirements. Ask us about our audit methodology and how we approach user testing with people with disabilities.
Q: What services exist for conducting a WCAG review?
A professional WCAG review — also called an accessibility audit — typically includes several components: an automated scan of your website, a manual expert review against WCAG success criteria, screen reader testing, a written report with prioritized findings, and recommendations for remediation. Some providers also offer re-testing after fixes are implemented to verify compliance. For organizations subject to legal requirements, a formal audit with documentation is especially important. Reviews can be scoped to a full website, a specific section, or a single user journey depending on your needs and budget.