The new version of the WCAG 2.2 standard expands the requirements for digital accessibility, particularly for people with visual and mobility impairments and cognitive difficulties. Aligning email communications with these guidelines is key to ensuring broad access to content.
How to adapt mailings in SARE system to WCAG 2.2?
SARE allows you to create accessible emails that comply with WCAG guidelines. Here are the most important rules:
Adequate contrast of text and background
- Minimum contrast: 4.5:1 for normal text, 3:1 for large text (18 px or bold 14 px).
- Colors from the SARE palette (e.g., Fun Green UI, Thunderbird Red UI) can be used if they meet the contrast requirements.
Hierarchy of headings
- Headings labeled H1, H2, H3 help users who use screen readers.
- Headings should clearly separate sections of the message.
Understandable language and simple content
- Avoiding complex vocabulary, making it easier for people with cognitive difficulties to understand.
Available links
- Link text should be clear and descriptive, such as “Check out the details of the offer” instead of “click here.”
- Links should be underlined and highlighted in color.
Alternative text for images
- Graphics in messages should include ALT descriptions, allowing blind people to read them through screen readers.
- The content of the message should not be placed only in the form of images.
Adjusting graphics to dark mode – dark mode
To make the graphics suitable for dark mode, it is recommended to use a transparent or dark background. With a transparent background, keep in mind that in dark mode the background color will be inverted, which may affect the readability of elements. If this is the case, it is worth checking that all details remain visible. If any of the elements become less legible, you can add a border of 1 px thick in the background color to maintain adequate contrast.
Font and readability
- Recommended font: Verdana, min. 11 px .
- No unnecessary CAPITAL LETTERS or italics that can make reading difficult.
- Bold instead of color as a way to highlight key content.
SARE Message Wizard and WCAG accessibility
SARE’s message builder supports accessibility with:
✔ The ability to define header hierarchies.
✔ Table support for better content structure.
✔ Option to manually edit HTML code to match colors to WCAG requirements.
Adapting mailings to WCAG 2.2 not only makes them more accessible, but also improves readability and user comfort. It is worth implementing these rules to make communications more accessible to people with disabilities.