Introduction

Harvard Business Publishing has implemented a digital accessibility policy aimed at ensuring equal access to information technology and online content for all users, including individuals with disabilities. The policy reflects the organization's commitment to improving how people interact with IT and digital resources across every platform.

What Happened

The policy establishes a framework requiring Information Technology and Digital Content to meet applicable accessibility standards. For websites and web-based applications, compliance follows the World Wide Web Consortium's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 2.1 at Level AA (WCAG 2.1 Level AA). For software and services that are not web-based, the guidelines are applied where they can meaningfully improve accessibility. For digital hardware interfaces, the standards also incorporate federal Section 508 requirements described in Chapter 4 (Hardware) of Appendix C to 36 C.F.R. Part 1194.

Why This Matters

Digital accessibility ensures that users with disabilities can obtain the same information, participate in similar interactions, and experience the same services as other users, with comparable effectiveness and integration. Beyond supporting equitable access, this commitment sets a standard for the broader publishing and education sectors.

Key Takeaways

  • Digital products undergo regular accessibility testing using automated tools, screen readers, color contrast analysis, and keyboard navigation checks, with issues remediated to maintain compliance.
  • Product-specific accessibility documentation, including Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates and conformance records for PDFs, simulations, or case studies, is available through customer support.
  • Personnel who purchase or acquire digital services must ensure vendors understand the policy and that contracts require adherence to the established accessibility standards.
  • Company leadership is expected to promote awareness of the policy and take responsibility for the accessibility of products sold to customers.
  • Accessibility specialists across design, development, and content teams provide ongoing support and resources to uphold the policy.
  • Customer support channels handle user inquiries and troubleshooting related to purchased digital content.

Conclusion

This policy represents a significant step toward ensuring that digital content is accessible to everyone. By committing to established standards, continuous testing, and proactive remediation, the organization demonstrates how institutions can embed inclusivity into their digital offerings. Other organizations pursuing similar goals should prioritize accessibility benchmarks, build clear accountability, and maintain regular improvement cycles.