At Gnarles Media we work with organisations that rely on their digital presence. In 2025, responsive and accessible web design is no longer optional. More than 64% of global web traffic comes from mobile devices. Around 15% of people worldwide live with a disability. If a site does not “adapt and include”, it excludes a large part of the audience.
Mobile first as the default
Smartphones are now the main way people access the internet. There are over 5.6 billion smartphone users worldwide. People expect consistency when they move between devices. Research shows that cross-device journeys are common, and users notice when the experience is broken.
Responsive design makes sure a site works on any screen. It also cuts down on duplicated development work and helps keep performance stable.
Accessibility: a business and legal requirement
Accessibility (Barrierefreiheit) is about making digital products usable for everyone. Roughly 15% of people live with disabilities. The WebAIM Million Report shows that accessibility barriers remain widespread on major websites. For many users this is enough reason to leave a site immediately and not return.
We are members of the IAAP D-A-CH, which connects professionals in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. For us, accessibility is not only about compliance, it is part of how we build long-term solutions.
What accessibility includes
- WCAG 2.2 and 3.0 compliance
- Keyboard access for all controls
- Sufficient colour contrast
- Alt text for images
- Clear form labels and instructions
- Flexible authentication methods
In Europe the EN 301 549 standard defines accessibility requirements for ICT products and services.
Legal and SEO context
- In Germany the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) applies from 28 June 2025. It requires many digital products and services to meet accessibility standards.
- In the EU the Web Accessibility Directive and the European Accessibility Act cover public and private offers.
- Accessibility also has a search impact. Google factors in usability, readability and mobile performance when ranking sites.
Real-world examples
- Deutsche Bahn: The DB UX Design System states that accessibility is built into colours and components [https://design-system.deutschebahn.com]. The 2023 Quality Report describes programmes for accessibility across stations, trains and digital services.
- Microsoft: The company has committed to the European Accessibility Act and invests in inclusive design and technology such as AI for Accessibility.
Looking ahead
AI tools, voice search and sustainable web design are shaping the next phase of the web. The direction is clear: sites must be responsive and accessible if they want to stay relevant.
Ready to elevate your digital presence? Explore our web design and development services at gnarles media to ensure your website is not just beautiful, but built for everyone, everywhere, all the time.
