Social intranet accessibility: accessibility that counts

Social intranet accessibility is much more than a legal requirement. It is an ethical imperative and an opportunity to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This article explains the importance of accessibility in the context of the social intranet and how it can improve the work environment.



In today's digital world, where social intranets are widely used in companies, the issue of accessibility is becoming increasingly important. It's not just about meeting legal requirements, but also about creating an inclusive work environment where all employees can participate equally.

Accessibility refers to the design of websites, platforms and applications so that they are accessible to people with different abilities and limitations. This includes people with disabilities, but also those who may have special needs due to their age, cultural backgrounds, or technical knowledge.

In the context of the social intranet, accessibility means that all employees, regardless of their individual abilities or limitations, should be able to use the platform effectively. This includes the ability to read information, post, access and participate in discussions, and all other activities offered by the social intranet.

However, the importance of social intranet accessibility goes far beyond meeting legal obligations. Here are some key reasons why intranet accessibility is essential:

Promote inclusion and diversity

Accessibility creates an inclusive environment where all employees are equal, regardless of their individual needs. This promotes diversity within the company and strengthens employee loyalty.

Meet legal requirements

Many countries have enacted laws and regulations regarding website and digital platform accessibility. Compliance with these laws is essential to prevent legal issues.

Positive image and reputation

Companies that promote accessibility demonstrate social responsibility and achieve a positive public image. This can have a positive impact on reputation and brand image.

Expanding the talent pool

Intranet accessibility attracts talented employees who are drawn to such efforts. This can help expand the company's talent pool.

Improved productivity

Accessible intranets tend to be more user-friendly and efficient. Employees can find information faster and complete their tasks more effectively.

Overall, social intranet accessibility is much more than a mandatory exercise. It is an opportunity to improve the work environment for all employees, strengthen the corporate culture, and advance the company as a whole. Therefore, companies should strive to create accessible intranets and ensure that they are continuously improved.

  • Top 5 benefits of accessibility in the enterprise
  1. Broadening the customer base: accessible products and services reach a wider audience, including people with disabilities. This opens up new market opportunities and can increase revenue potential.
  2. Strengthening brand image: A commitment to accessibility signals social responsibility and can improve the corporate image. Customers and stakeholders appreciate companies that are committed to the needs of all.
  3. Promoting corporate culture: Accessibility promotes an inclusive corporate culture in which diversity is valued and encouraged. This can increase employee satisfaction and retention.
  4. Compliance with legal requirements: Compliance with legal requirements for accessibility reduces the risk of litigation and penalties and contributes to the company's legal security.
  5. Improved usability: accessible products and services are often more user-friendly and efficient. This can increase customer satisfaction and promote customer loyalty.

Questions and answers about accessibility

Accessibility refers to the design of products, services, websites, and environments so that they can be used by people with different abilities and limitations without encountering barriers.

Why is accessibility important for businesses?

Accessibility is important for reaching a wider audience, meeting legal requirements, enhancing image, promoting corporate culture, and improving usability.

What are some examples of accessibility measures?

Examples include using alternative text for images, providing captions in videos, designing content that is easy to understand, and making physical buildings accessible.

How can a company implement accessibility?

Companies can implement accessibility through employee training, accessible website designs, accessibility reviews, and considering accessibility from the beginning of product development processes.

What are the legal requirements related to accessibility?

Legal requirements vary by country and region. In the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) governs accessibility, while in the EU, the Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications Directive applies. It is important to check and comply with the specific laws in your region.

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Infographic: What is accessibility exactly?
People without any impairment to their visual, cognitive or motor skills may find it difficult to imagine the obstacles that lie in the digital path for some users. However, it is not only blind people who have trouble consuming certain digital content and are ergo excluded from everyday digital life, but also colorblind people or people over 45. According to the Accessibility Study by the "Access for All" foundation, this affects 20% of all Swiss online users. Most people's vision steadily declines after midlife. Furthermore, people who cannot operate a mouse due to an impairment often come up against limits. This is because they are dependent on the keyboard to navigate a website at all.

Introduction: Why is accessibility important in companies?Accessibility is not only an ethical obligation, but also an economic advantage for companies. It ensures that people with different abilities have equal access to products, services and information. Companies that take accessibility seriously promote inclusion, increase their reach and improve their image.
The change: accessibility as a solutionThe company recognized the importance of accessibility and began making its digital platforms, internal documents and training materials accessible. This included the use of image captions, accessible document formats, and improved contrast on screens. Maria could now access information, participate in training, and work on projects effortlessly.
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Emily Patel
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Emily is the most enthusiastic advocate for diversity and inclusion in our company. With a strong commitment to accessibility, she leads initiatives to ensure that every employee can benefit equally from our resources.
Mobile: +4917878787878
Facts and figures
Weltweite Bedeutung
1 billion
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 billion people worldwide have some form of disability, or about 15% of the world's population.