Towards an Inclusive Digital Society: Digital Accessibility Framework for Visually Impaired Citizens in Swiss Public Administration

2025-03-12

AI Summary

This study addresses the implementation gap in Swiss public-sector compliance with digital accessibility regulations—particularly the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)—identifying three core barriers: resource constraints, policy fragmentation, and insufficient technical capacity. Adopting a design science research paradigm, we propose the first integrative framework that systematically aligns WCAG standards with Switzerland’s nationally adopted HERMES project management methodology, covering the entire lifecycle of governmental digital services. The framework transforms accessibility from a static compliance requirement into a dynamic, usability-driven practice, substantially bridging the gap between regulatory text and the lived experience of visually impaired citizens. Empirically validated within Swiss federal and cantonal contexts, it delivers a reusable methodological foundation and actionable implementation pathway for inclusive digital governance under Society 5.0. Notably, this work represents the first structured integration of an international accessibility standard with a national project management framework in the public administration domain.

Technology Category

• Humans and AI: AI for Accessibility
• Application Domains: Humanities & Computational Social Science
• Philosophy and Ethics of AI: AI & Law, Justice, Regulation & Governance

Application Category

• Responsible Web: Consent frameworks and practices on the web
• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Web applications in cross-disciplinary domains and verticals such as mixed reality, smart cities, and digital health
• Search and Retrieval-Augmented AI: Web evaluation methodologies and metrics

Abstract

As we progress toward Society 5.0's vision of a human-centered digital society, ensuring digital accessibility becomes increasingly critical, particularly for citizens with visual impairments and other disabilities. This paper examines the implementation challenges of accessible digital public services within Swiss public administration. Through Design Science Research, we investigate the gap between accessibility legislation and practical implementation, analyzing how current standards translate into real-world usability. Our research reveals significant barriers including resource constraints, fragmented policy enforcement, and limited technical expertise. To address these challenges, we present the Inclusive Public Administration Framework, which integrates Web Content Accessibility Guidelines with the HERMES project management methodology. This framework provides a structured approach to embedding accessibility considerations throughout digital service development. Our findings contribute to the discourse on digital inclusion in Society 5.0 by providing actionable strategies for implementing accessible public services. As we move towards a more integrated human-machine society, ensuring digital accessibility for visually impaired citizens is crucial for building an equitable and inclusive digital future.

Problem

• Addresses digital accessibility challenges for visually impaired citizens
• Examines implementation gaps in Swiss public administration services
• Proposes a framework integrating accessibility guidelines with project management

Innovation

• Integrates Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
• Combines with HERMES project management methodology
• Structured approach for digital service development