What is WCAG and is it required for business websites in Poland?
Introduction to WCAG - what is it?
WCAG, or Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, is a set of guidelines regarding website accessibility. Their goal is to ensure that websites are usable and accessible to the widest possible audience, including people with various disabilities.The WCAG guidelines were developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), an organization responsible for internet standardization. It is a global standard that helps designers and developers create sites friendly to people with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive impairments.
WCAG focuses on several key principles: a site must be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. This means every user, regardless of their abilities, should be able to use the website without barriers.
Thanks to WCAG, websites are better prepared for diverse user needs, which translates into better experiences and greater accessibility of online services.
WCAG compliance levels - what do they mean?
WCAG is divided into three compliance levels: A, AA, and AAA. Each describes a different degree of accessibility fulfillment.Level A is the basic level, covering the most fundamental requirements. A site compliant with this level removes the most critical barriers but does not guarantee full accessibility.
Level AA is the recommended level for most websites. It includes both basic and additional requirements that significantly improve site accessibility and usability.
Level AAA is the highest standard, containing the most detailed and demanding criteria. Meeting this level is difficult and often impractical for all websites, so it is rarely required.
For companies, achieving level AA is most commonly recommended, as it is a compromise between usability and implementation costs.
WCAG and the law in Poland - is it mandatory?
In Poland, digital accessibility requirements are regulated by the Act on the Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications of Public Entities. This means public entities are required to meet WCAG guidelines at level AA.For private companies, the situation is less clear. Currently, there are no regulations imposing an absolute obligation to comply with WCAG for all business websites.
However, more and more companies voluntarily implement these standards to ensure better access to their services and improve their image.
It is also worth noting that in the future, accessibility requirements may be extended to include the private sector, similar to other EU countries.
Why apply WCAG on a business website?
Applying WCAG guidelines on a business website is not only a legal issue but also a business benefit. First of all, website accessibility allows reaching a larger number of users, including people with various disabilities.This way, a company builds an image of openness and care for all customers, which can translate into loyalty and positive reviews.
Additionally, WCAG-compliant sites are often better optimized for SEO. Structure, alternative text for images, and correct headings make it easier for search engine crawlers to index content.
Finally, accessibility also means a better experience for every user - clarity and intuitiveness of the site increase the chances of conversions and achieving business goals.
How to check if a site complies with WCAG?
Checking a website's WCAG compliance can be done in several ways. There are automated tools that analyze code and indicate basic accessibility errors.Popular tools include Axe, WAVE, and Lighthouse, which can be used as browser extensions or standalone applications.
However, automated tests do not detect all problems. Therefore, it is also worth conducting manual tests, including those involving people with disabilities.
Professional accessibility companies offer audits that include a full compliance analysis, recommendations, and support in implementing fixes.
How to implement WCAG on a business website?
Implementing WCAG requires cooperation between design teams, developers, and often accessibility specialists. The most important thing is to consider the guidelines already at the website design stage.Elements such as color contrasts, heading structure, keyboard navigation capability, and alternative image descriptions should be consciously planned.
For existing sites, it may be necessary to conduct an audit and implement fixes, which requires thorough analysis and testing.
It is worth using frameworks and libraries that support accessibility and continuously monitoring the site for new guidelines and technological changes.
Summary - is WCAG necessary for companies?
Although in Poland the obligation to apply WCAG currently mainly concerns the public sector, for private companies it is an important element of building a modern and friendly website.Adapting the site to WCAG brings business benefits, improves user experience, and positively affects SEO.
We recommend every company consider implementing accessibility to stay ahead of the competition and follow internet development trends.
If needed, professional support in accessibility is offered by companies specializing in creating WCAG-compliant websites, which helps avoid mistakes and efficiently implement changes.
Client Reviews
Selected Projects
Each project is a custom-tailored online store or web application that combines modern design with functionality adapted to the client's needs. See how we help brands grow in the online channel through thoughtful and comprehensive implementations.
Case study
PawsOfLily Online Store
Scope of Work For the PawsOfLily brand, we designed and developed a modern online store from scratch based on WordPress. The project included creating a tailored visual design, integrating with a payment system, inventory management, and shipping (InPost).We ensured that the entire platform was not only visually appealing but also intuitive and functional — in line with best practices for building websites and web applications. At the end, we conducted a training session that enabled the client to manage the store independently from day one. Technologies Used Read more
Case study
Mellowmind Cosplay Online Store
Scope of Work For the Mellowmind Cosplay brand, we designed and developed a modern online store from scratch based on WordPress. The project included preparing a unique, bold visual design that reflects the character and aesthetics of the brand, as well as full integration with the payment system.We ensured that the store was not only visually aligned with the brand's existing communication but also fully functional, scalable, and ready for future growth. At the end of the implementation, we conducted a training session that enabled the client to independently manage content and product offerings. Technologies Used Read more
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Soteria Web Application
Scope of Work For the Soteria project, we designed and developed a modern online store with a booking module, based on a custom system built in Laravel technology. Work began with preparing a tailored graphic design that visually referenced the brand's character and the interior aesthetics of the restaurant.Then we proceeded to implementation — creating a fully functional sales system with the possibility to make online reservations. The entire system was tested for usability, responsiveness, and stability in the production environment. Technologies Used Read more
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Silverpine Ridge Website
Scope of Work For the Silverpine Ridge project, we designed and implemented a website dedicated to presenting the offer of single-family homes for sale and rent. The starting point was a refined graphic design aimed at capturing the atmosphere of the place — a peaceful, modern estate surrounded by nature. Then we completed the full implementation of the site using Laravel technology and carried out final tests. Technologies Used Read more
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VICE Landing Page
Scope of Work The VICE website was created with a focus on modern aesthetics and clarity of information. The goal was to design a clean, functional WordPress site aligned with a minimalist visual identity. The result combines simplicity with a strong message — all developed in the spirit of 'less is more'. Technologies Used Read more