Upcoming Website and Digital Accessibility Changes

To strengthen our commitment to accessibility and comply with new federal digital accessibility requirements, BGSU is taking key steps to ensure all web and digital content meets updated standards. These changes will affect how website documents are managed and uploaded across divisions.

In 2015, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) found BGSU’s website had accessibility issues. ITS and MBS partnered to address the issues. While the website now meets standards, a recent 2024 OCR review found a sample PDF did not. Because full PDF remediation requires manual review, BGSU has partnered with a vendor to assist with this time-intensive process.

A new federal law effective April 2026 requires all public-facing digital content to meet enhanced accessibility standards. This adds further urgency in our efforts to achieve compliance. The Office of General Counsel, Information Technology Services, Marketing and Brand Strategy and the Office of State and Federal Compliance and Non-Discrimination will be working together to ensure our website and digital documents meet the latest standards.

Next Steps

1. Document upload restrictions – Effective Nov. 24, 2025
   ITS will remove the ability for all 600+ web contributors to upload documents directly to the website.
   
   
2. Delete all inactive documents – Effective Nov. 24, 2025
   All deactivated/inactive assets including documents and images currently in Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) will be removed.
   
   
3. Document inventory review – Due Jan. 15, 2026
   Departments will be sent their list of documents. Please review your division’s spreadsheet and confirm which files must remain active.
   
   
4. Document Remediation – Spring semester
   All remaining documents will be remediated or converted into webpages or digital solutions.
   1. Option A: Submit the file to our accessibility remediation partner (cost covered by individual departments). Once remediated and accompanied by an accessibility compliance certificate, MBS will upload the file.
   2. Option B: Convert the content to an accessible webpage or other digital format such as a web form or Scribe (no cost). We will rely on AEM users in your offices to assist.