WCAG 2.0 stands for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0. It is a set of technical guidelines developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to ensure that web content is accessible to people with disabilities. WCAG 2.0 provides recommendations for making web content more perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users, including those with disabilities.

WCAG 2.0 is important because it promotes inclusivity and ensures equal access to information and services on the web for people with disabilities. By adhering to WCAG 2.0 standards, organizations can make their websites and digital platforms accessible to a broader audience, including individuals with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive disabilities.

WCAG 2.0 is based on four core principles: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust (POUR). These principles guide the development of accessible web content by addressing factors such as providing text alternatives for non-text content, ensuring content is navigable using keyboard and assistive technologies, making content understandable and predictable, and ensuring compatibility with various user agents and technologies.

WCAG 2.0 benefits users with disabilities by making web content more accessible and usable. For example, it allows individuals who are blind or have low vision to use screen readers to access textual content, enables people with mobility impairments to navigate websites using keyboard shortcuts, and ensures that individuals with cognitive disabilities can understand and interact with web content more effectively.

GOGov is committed to ensuring that its products and services comply with WCAG 2.0 standards for accessibility. We employ a combination of manual and automated testing, accessibility audits, and ongoing monitoring to identify and address accessibility issues across our platforms. Additionally, we provide training and resources to our team members to promote awareness and understanding of accessibility best practices.

WCAG 2.0 compliance is crucial for local governments to ensure equitable access to essential services and information for all citizens, including those with disabilities. By adhering to WCAG 2.0 standards, local governments can foster inclusivity, transparency, and civic engagement, thereby strengthening trust and participation within their communities. Additionally, WCAG 2.0 compliance helps local governments mitigate legal risks associated with accessibility lawsuits and demonstrates their commitment to serving the needs of all residents.