Conformance

In the context of WCAG 2.2, conformance means to meet the standards and requirements set out in the guidelines.

Conformance is important as it ensures that web content is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities

There are different levels of conformance and a systematic approach to achieving and reporting compliance.

Conformance levels

WCAG 2.2 defines three levels of conformance:

Level A

This is the minimum level of conformance. It addresses the most basic web accessibility features and includes requirements that will have the highest impact on the largest number of users with disabilities.

Level AA

This level addresses the biggest and most common barriers for disabled users. It's often considered the standard level of conformance for web accessibility.

Level AA is the minimum level of conformance we must meet in DfE.

Level AAA

This is the highest and most stringent level of conformance.

It includes additional improvements that will make content accessible to the maximum number of users. However, it is recognised that it may not be possible to meet all Level AAA success criteria for all content.

Conformance requirements

To conform to WCAG 2.2, web content must satisfy the success criteria at the desired level of conformance. The main requirements for conformance are:

Full pages

The entire web page must meet the success criteria. If part of a web page is inaccessible, the whole page is considered non-conformant.

Complete processes

Any process, such as a series of steps needed to complete a form or transaction, must be accessible. All steps in the process must meet the success criteria.

Accessibility-supported technologies

Content must be usable with assistive technologies and accessible user agents. This means using technologies that are supported by the user agents and assistive technologies available to the target audience.

No interference

The use of technologies must not interfere with the accessibility of other content. If a technology is used in a way that causes accessibility problems, it does not meet the requirements.

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Information about this page

• Created: 18 July 2024
• Last reviewed: 18 July 2024
• Last updated: 22 July 2024
• Reason this page exists: This page exists to help people understand what the different levels of conformance are within WCAG and what we aim to meet in DfE.
• Suggest a change or comment: Issue 67