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Creating an accessible banking platform isn’t just about meeting legal requirements – it’s about ensuring that all users can manage their finances independently and securely. In an industry where trust and usability are paramount, WCAG compliance (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is a must. Yet, many financial institutions struggle with implementing the necessary changes. Let’s break down the process step by step, making it easier to transform your banking platform into a WCAG-compliant system that serves users effectively.
Table of Contents
Key takeaways:
- Achieving WCAG compliance is not a one-time task; it requires continuous monitoring and updates. The process involves auditing your platform, addressing accessibility barriers, and maintaining ongoing compliance.
- Common problem areas include navigation, forms, color contrast, and assistive technology compatibility.
- Automated testing tools help, but human testing is crucial to capturing real user experiences and making sure your platform is WCAG-compliant.
You may also see: Hyper-personalization in banking and customer service
How to make your banking platform WCAG-compliant?
1. The first step to WCAG compliance is an in-depth accessibility audit
The first step in making your banking platform WCAG-compliant is assessing where you currently stand. Conducting a thorough accessibility audit helps identify barriers that may prevent users with disabilities from navigating and using your services effectively.
Use both automated tools and manual testing. Automated tools like Axe or WAVE can flag structural issues, but they won’t catch everything. Real users, especially those who rely on screen readers or keyboard navigation, can provide invaluable insights into how accessible your platform truly is.
2. Ensure clear and consistent navigation
Banking platforms tend to be complex, with multiple sections, features, and transaction flows. If navigation isn’t structured well, it becomes a significant barrier for users with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities. Make sure that menus, buttons, and links are clearly labeled and follow a logical order. Avoid unnecessary pop-ups or unexpected redirects that may confuse users relying on screen readers.
3. Optimize forms and transaction flows
Whether for logging in, transferring funds, or applying for financial products, banks rely heavily on forms that should be designed with accessibility in mind. Make sure all labels are always explicitly linked to form fields, error messages are descriptive and easy to understand, and users are able to complete forms using only a keyboard. Avoid using placeholders as primary labels, as they disappear when users type and can be difficult for people with cognitive disabilities.
4. Implement proper color contrast and text scaling
Many users with visual impairments struggle with low contrast and small text. To meet WCAG compliance, ensure that text has a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background. Offer high-contrast modes for users who need them and allow for text resizing without breaking page layouts. Remember that icons and error messages should never rely on color alone. For example, a red error message should also include an icon or text explanation to assist colorblind users.
5. Ensure compatibility with assistive technologies
A WCAG-compliant banking platform must work seamlessly with screen readers, voice recognition software, and other assistive tools. Test with popular screen readers like JAWS to ensure users can navigate, input data, and receive feedback properly.
Additionally, ensure interactive elements like dropdowns, modals, and carousels are operable via keyboard navigation. Users shouldn’t have to rely on a mouse or touch input to complete essential banking tasks.
Ongoing compliance – testing and updates
Accessibility isn’t a one-time fix. Regulatory guidelines evolve, and new features are constantly being introduced to banking platforms. To maintain WCAG compliance, accessibility testing should be an integral part of your development cycle.
Regularly update your platform based on user feedback and audits. Train your team on accessibility best practices to prevent new barriers from being introduced. By making accessibility a continuous priority, you’ll create a banking experience that truly serves everyone.
The takeaway
Achieving and maintaining WCAG compliance is about more than just avoiding legal issues – it’s about ensuring financial inclusivity. By following the steps described in this article, you’re not just meeting a requirement; you’re making banking fair, accessible, and user-friendly for everyone. Want to make your banking platform WCAG compliant? Reach out to our experts!
