From duty to profit: accessible B2B software as a game changer
Inclusion and equality are no longer topics for the future - they are now part of everyday life. Accessibility is becoming increasingly important, especially in software development. While accessible solutions are widely recognized in the B2C sector and public institutions, the B2B sector often lags behind. Accessible software not only offers ethical advantages, but also tangible business opportunities.
Status quo and legal framework
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) have established themselves worldwide as the standard for digital accessibility. In Germany, these guidelines must be implemented by June 2025 as part of the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG). Public institutions are already setting a good example - even the Tagesschau news program offers its news in plain language. Section 164 (4) of the German Social Code IX also enshrines the right to an accessible workplace for people with severe disabilities. However, many companies in the B2B sector have so far remained passive - despite the existing legal requirements and the increasingly strict laws in Europe. There is still a widespread opinion that accessibility does not bring any real added value. But is this really true?
Economic opportunities through accessible software
Accessible software opens up access to new markets. In Germany, this applies to
- Around 1.2 million people with severe visual impairments who are dependent on aids such as screen readers.
- Around 7.8 million people with severe disabilities, 11% of whom have motor impairments and require special input aids.
- 6.2 million people who are dependent on simple speech or read-aloud functions.
- Around 8 million older workers who could benefit from accessibility tools.
These figures make it clear that people with accessibility requirements are by no means a small marginalized group, but make up a significant proportion of the population. In addition, there are people who are temporarily dependent on accessibility, for example after a stroke. Experts estimate that a large proportion of these people are able to work and are therefore entitled to an accessible workplace in accordance with Section 164 SGB IX.
Companies that take accessibility into account from the outset avoid expensive subsequent adaptations - especially if legal requirements in Europe become even stricter in the future. Accessible systems also reduce training costs, facilitate reintegration and promote the recruitment of people with disabilities. This increases the talent pool and reduces recruitment costs.
The “State of Digital Accessibility Report 2023” shows: 73% of companies demand accessibility when procuring software. Those who focus on accessibility now will secure a clear competitive advantage. And not to forget: Websites that are not accessible lose sales. Users with accessibility needs leave 69% of non-accessible websites without comment. In the B2C sector alone, this caused damage of around 17 billion pounds in the UK in 2019. The B2B sector also suffered a noticeable loss here.
How companies can promote accessibility
To integrate accessibility in the long term, companies should take the following steps:
- Consider regulatory requirements such as the BFSG and WCAG as minimum requirements.
- Address the topic from the outset and sensitize all stakeholders.
- Conduct accessibility audits to identify weaknesses.
- Obtain expertise to implement solutions both effectively and technically.
Conclusion
Accessible B2B software is more than just a legal obligation. It offers tangible economic benefits, from opening up new markets to cost reductions and competitive advantages. Those who focus on accessibility now not only strengthen their responsibility, but also their market position. In an increasingly inclusive world, accessible software is a strategic investment in the future.
Our experts will be happy to assist you in all project phases to successfully master these challenges.
