Query regarding digital maps in relation to Web Accessibility Regulations 2018

Dear group members,


I have been directed to this forum by one of the editors of the Web Content
Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 <https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG21/>.



I would be very grateful for any advice you can offer on the following.



I work in digital mapping and am concerned to clarify details of the
regs/guidance with regard to The Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile
Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018, in relation to digital maps
provided for public sector clients.



4.2(d) of the regulations includes 'online maps and mapping services'
within the list of web content to which the regs do not apply 'as long as
essential information is provided in an accessible digital manner for maps
intended for navigational use'.



We build layered, interactive maps that are intended for wayfinding
alongside other kinds of information provision. Although these maps serve
the interests of some disabled users very well, and this was in fact a
major motivating factor behind their early development (they can for
example show step-free and lower gradient routes over complex sites, and
routes that prioritise indoor options where possible), our technology does
not as yet enable us to translate route directions into to a text-based
form that would be self-sufficient without the map visuals.



My question therefore is really over what kind of practice/provision would
be considered a reasonable alternative i.e. would constitute 'essential
information [...] provided in an accessible digital manner'? I have
suggested to one client that their site map's key locations could be listed
in a stand-alone screen-readable pdf document, with addresses, some
supporting directional information and contact details given. We would then
link to this doc from the 'Information' section (i.e. a dropdown containing
supporting articles etc) of the interactive map.



I would be very grateful if you could confirm my understanding that our
digital maps, as described, are indeed exempt subject to suitable
alternative provision, and that the solution described would be regarded as
reasonable/compliant? Any equivalent examples of good practice that you can
direct me to would be really helpful. It may be that the onus in meeting
the regulations falls to our public sector clients, but we would like to be
in a position to advise them accurately and make suggestions for the
alternative provision of information.



In the meantime we are actively looking to make our maps more accessible in
other ways, across a wider range of impairment type, as and where we can.



I'm very grateful in advance for your advice and time.



Kind regards,

Rowena Macaulay


-- 

Creative Projects and Inclusive Design


Smart Networked Environments

Unit 4, Block B

Knowledge Gateway

Nesfield Road, Colchester

Essex CO4 3ZL
Tel: 01206 625201