User needs and e-government accessibility: the future impact of WCAG 2.0

Abstract

Governments in many countries require that government Web content adhere to international accessibility standards, in addition to specific national standards. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) version 2.0 will set a new standard for Web accessibility. The implications of WCAG 2.0 for eGovernment sites in two nations, the United States of America and Australia, are considered. While the needs of all users are important when determining accessibility and usability requirements of sites, the particular needs of people with cognitive impairments are considered in greater detail, as an example to designers that people with disabilities are a heterogeneous group, where one solution does not fit all. © Springer-Verlag 2004.