The University of Michigan is committed to making digital accessibility a core aspect of operations.
The Digital Accessibility Strategic Initiative is a large coordinated program to make digital information and experiences accessible to all without barriers, by embedding accessibility into the fabric of everyday work. This comprehensive effort includes:
- raising awareness
- providing necessary tools
- developing robust support systems for U-M communities
Find out more about what we are doing and how you fit in:
- Review our Objectives & Goals
- Follow our Timeline
- Learn how to Get Started
This initiative supports U-M’s alignment with standards, policy, and regulations, including WCAG 2.1 AA and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Our objectives and timelines have been designed to meet updated federal regulations and compliance dates.
What is Digital Accessibility?
Digital accessibility means ensuring that all digital content, including web pages, online courses, and software, is usable by everyone, including people with disabilities.
Digital accessibility can be understood in multiple ways:
- Universal Design: Designing for a broad range of needs and devices
- Equitable Access: Providing access to all people regardless of disability status
- Usability: Ensuring ease of use for all people
- Compatibility: Making sure things work with different technologies including assistive technologies
- Compliance: Meeting the WCAG 2.1 AA standards for digital accessibility
- Inviting Feedback: Making it easy and welcoming for people to report barriers and get help
- Accommodations: Offering responsive, necessary accommodations when barriers are encountered
Why is This Change Important?
The University of Michigan is dedicated to making digital accessibility an integral part of our institutional identity and culture. Help us make the University of Michigan a barrier-free environment by making accessibility a routine part of your work and interactions.
Why do we do this work? The following goals motivate our shared commitment and direct our work:
- Lead by Example: Position U-M as a leader in digital accessibility for and become a model for other institutions
- Broaden Reach and Impact: Ensure that U-M teaching, research, and other programs are accessible to all intended audiences including students, donors, faculty, staff, and the public
- Equity and Access: Design accessible digital information to promote participation, enhance recruitment and retention, and counteract exclusions of people with disabilities
- Policy Compliance: Adhere to U-M's policies, including the Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility SPG 601.20
- Legal Requirements: Comply with laws and regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 508, and related standards (WCAG 2.1 AA) and deadlines
- Good Design: Practice accessible design to improve usability for all users, including those using mobile devices, older technology, or experiencing temporary or situational limitations
- Barrier-Free Information: Ensure that digital content does not create unnecessary barriers
- Efficiency: Prevent the need for costly corrections by addressing accessibility from the start