Overview
ISO 9241-171:2025 is an international standard released by ISO that focuses on software accessibility as part of the broader ISO 9241 series on ergonomics of human-system interaction. This document provides requirements and guidance for designing accessible software to ensure usability for people with a wide range of abilities, including individuals with temporary or situational disabilities and older adults. ISO 9241-171:2025 supports creating interactive systems that are accessible and usable in diverse environments, and it is particularly relevant for anyone involved in specifying, developing, evaluating, or procuring software platforms and applications.
Key Topics
- Software Accessibility Requirements: Offers practical guidelines for designing software that is accessible to users with different physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities.
- Complementing Usability: Addresses accessibility alongside general usability principles, as detailed in ISO 9241-11 and ISO 9241-210.
- Context of Use: Promotes the usability of interactive systems in the widest possible range of contexts, including different technologies and environments.
- User Interface Considerations: Recommends methods for ensuring that user interfaces allow individualization, offer multiple input/output modalities, and support users' preferences.
- Support for Assistive Technology: While this standard does not cover assistive technologies themselves, it provides advice on integrating such tools as part of comprehensive accessibility strategies within interactive systems.
Applications
ISO 9241-171:2025 is intended for use across a broad spectrum of software solutions:
- Home and Office Applications: Making productivity and communication tools accessible for all users, including providing alternative input/output modes and clear documentation.
- Mobile and Web Systems: Ensuring interfaces adapt to various devices and user needs, incorporating accessible navigation and user feedback mechanisms.
- Learning Support and Library Systems: Providing accessible educational environments, with adaptable content and supportive user interfaces.
- Public and Enterprise Software: Facilitating accessible experiences in government, healthcare, and customer service platforms for employees and the general public.
By adhering to ISO 9241-171:2025, organizations can:
- Enhance compliance with legal and regulatory accessibility requirements.
- Improve user satisfaction and productivity by removing barriers to software access.
- Increase product reach by accommodating a broader user base, including those with temporary or situational limitations.
Related Standards
When designing accessible interactive systems, consider these related standards to ensure comprehensive compliance and best practices:
- ISO 9241-11 - Guidance on usability, focusing on the extent to which specified users can achieve specified goals with effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction.
- ISO 9241-210 - Covers human-centered design for interactive systems, emphasizing user involvement and iterative design.
- W3C WCAG 2.2 - Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, widely adopted for web software and content accessibility.
- W3C UAAG 2.0 - Provides guidance on accessibility features for user agents (browsers and media players).
- ISO/IEC Guide 71 - Addresses accessibility in the development of standards for diverse users, including guidance on the needs of older persons and persons with disabilities.
Conclusion
ISO 9241-171:2025 is essential for ensuring that software products and platforms are accessible, usable, and inclusive. By following its guidance, organizations can meet user needs across a variety of contexts, improve user satisfaction, and support worldwide accessibility initiatives. Applying these accessibility standards not only benefits people with disabilities but also promotes better software design and usability for everyone.
