Check out our new WCAG 2.1 role-based info pages.
5/20/2026 4:35:38 PM
Content author: Office of Accessibility
Part of the State of Minnesota's Digital Accessibility Standard references the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). In June 2024, the State updated the standard from WCAG 2.0 to WCAG 2.1 to strengthen digital accessibility across state services. We highlighted the update in a blog post titled, "What the upgrade to WCAG 2.1 means for Minnesotans."
To prepare state employees for that update, we partnered with subject matter experts (SMEs) throughout the state to develop role-based materials. These resources serve as both training and reference guides, helping employees understand how accessibility connects to their day-to-day work.
These resources are useful to everyone, even to those who may be new to digital accessibility. By reviewing the materials tied to their role, employees can better understand how accessibility connects to their work and what they can do to support it, even without prior knowledge of WCAG 2.0.
Here's what you can expect from each WCAG 2.1 role-based page:
For example, a graphic designer would check out the Content Authoring page to learn how to best incorporate the newer criteria in their work. First, they will see that most criteria don't impact them. Then upon selecting the accordion for SC 1.4.11: Non-text Contrast (Level AA), they can dive into how to apply its principles to:
They will also learn how to check for color contrast and use color blindness simulators.
A data visualization expert can review the Data Visualization page to learn that, unlike content authors, most of the WCAG 2.1 criteria do apply. Then dive into each relevant criteria such as SC 2.5.3: Label in Name (Level A) to grab sample code on how to meet it.
The only major role not included is procurement. We're currently incorporating that information into an updated version of our accessible procurement page. Watch this newsletter for an announcement soon!
We hope that folks find these WCAG 2.1 role-based pages a useful tool as they dive into digital accessibility. Then use the references at the end to explore more.
Did you find the role-based content useful? Is there something we can do to make it better? Drop us a note and let us know!
The IAAP Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) credential is IAAP's foundational certification for accessibility professionals with at least a year of experience (those with less will need to provide their background and goals before taking the exam). It represents broad, cross-disciplinary conceptual knowledge about:
Accessibility
Accessibility
