All articles Accessibility is not a standalone requirement or a last-minute addition to service design – it’s an integral part of good usability. When a digital service considers a wide range of users and everyday contexts, it becomes more approachable, higher in quality, and functional for everyone.
In June 2025, the transition period for the European Accessibility Act will end. After this, a wider range of digital services must comply with accessibility standards at the AA level. You can learn more about the requirements at: https://saavutettavuusvaatimukset.fi/en
The diversity of everyday life at the heart of the user experience
Let’s explore accessibility through real-life scenarios. Life doesn’t happen under perfect conditions, where everyone is fully capable and tech-savvy. We are of different ages, and we navigate varying situations and environments.
“It doesn’t concern our users,” some might think when considering if accessibility applies to their digital service. But what if it does? Who actually benefits from accessible services? The true value of accessibility becomes clear when we look at how it affects different types of users.
For some, accessibility is not just a nice extra – it’s a necessity. Poor accessibility can render a service completely unusable. It can exclude people from tasks others take for granted. Let’s not leave anyone behind – let’s build services that everyone can use and benefit from.
1. Everyday scenario: When you’ve only got one hand free
Everyone who has tried to book an appointment while holding a wriggling toddler knows just how difficult everyday tasks can be with only one hand free.
Imagine needing to book a health clinic appointment via your phone while cradling your child. On older keypads, this could be done one-handed, but modern smartphones are large – your fingers may not even reach across the screen. Typing into a chat interface with one hand? Nearly impossible without support.
What does accessibility mean in this case?
- Clear UI logic – Can users quickly find what they need?
- Button size and placement – Are they usable with one hand?
- Understandable icons and text – Is the interface intuitive?
- Font size – Is the text readable without squinting?
2. Challenges not faced by all – but crucial for some
For users with physical or cognitive disabilities, using digital services can be significantly more challenging and time-consuming.
If you don’t belong to this group, you might not realise just how long it can take to, say, book a health appointment through a poorly designed app.
What happens when accessibility is lacking?
- Confusing or inconsistent interface structure
- Visual elements that screen readers can’t interpret
- Vague button labels like “button” with no context
- Repeatedly having to enter the same information
- Legally required texts in unreadably small fonts
There may also be legally required texts in fine print that no one can realistically read. In the end, it’s the quality of the user experience that determines whether someone continues using the service or gives up and looks elsewhere.
Context shapes usability
Accessibility and usability are inseparable, and the context of use plays a big role. Where and how people use your service influences their experience.
This is particularly true for mobile tools. For example, if your app is being used in bright sunlight, you need to consider:
- Proper contrast – to ensure readability outdoors
- Sufficient element sizes and spacing – to support easy navigation
Accessibility as a competitive advantage
When your service embraces accessibility and usability from different angles, it can open up entirely new user segments.
Accessible services get noticed. They keep users coming back, and those users recommend the service to others. This enhances your brand image, supports business growth, and reduces the burden on customer support.
The law requires it, but it’s also smart business
From June 2025 onwards, more digital services, especially consumer-facing ones, will be legally required to meet accessibility standards. But compliance isn’t just a legal checkbox; it’s an excellent opportunity to improve your service offering.
With our help, accessibility audits and improvements can be carried out smoothly and professionally. We assess both mobile and desktop services, no matter the size. We combine automated tools, expert reviews and end-user testing as needed.
References and further reading:
- Customer reference: Luetus® – An accessible app for the visually
- Blog: 5 things to remember when developing and designing an accessible app
- Meetup recording: Accessibility with Flutter: Apps are for everyone!
At Codemate, accessibility is integrated into the way our development teams work. Get in touch and let’s build a service together that works for everyone and takes your user experience to the next, more inclusive level.
Want to hear more?
Let Minna help you elevate your user experience – and make it truly accessible for all.
