Pfennigparade PSG GmbH // Stiftung Pfennigparade

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) sets clear requirements for digital accessibility and calls for concrete implementation strategies. In order to meet the minimum legal standards and secure sustainable competitive advantages, direct testing with people with disabilities is essential. EAA: Rules of the game and winning strategies • The rules of the game of the EAA require companies to design digital products and services that are accessible to all and legally compliant. Relevant standards such as the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) serve as guidelines for both product design and internal organization. • Winning strategies are based on implementing accessibility early on and holistically: Those who specifically combine standards and user-friendliness create real added value, improve market opportunities, and reduce legal risks. Why testing with people with disabilities is essential • Testing with people with different disabilities reveals usability problems that often remain undetected with purely technical tests and standard users. • Such user tests promote empathy and practical relevance and open up new perspectives for developers, managers, and organizations. They act as a “magnifying glass” for barriers and help to find solutions not only for the target group, but for all users. • Companies that regularly conduct real user tests benefit from an inclusive corporate culture, greater legal certainty, and improved products that are also more accessible to older people and people with temporary disabilities. Conclusion The implementation of the EAA can only succeed with the right “rules of the game” (standards, processes) – and the “winning strategy” lies in actively involving people with disabilities. Their perspective is essential for genuine, sustainable digital offerings and a successful, legally compliant market presence.