The University of Iowa has launched the Accessible Iowa: The Countdown to Digital Accessibility initiative to ensure that its digital content — ranging from websites and course materials to systems, services, and programs — meets the latest federal accessibility standards. This university-wide effort follows the U.S. Department of Justice’s updated rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which requires full compliance by April 24, 2026.
The new law applies to all university websites, mobile applications, operational systems, and any digital materials shared with students, faculty, and staff, including academic content. Its broad scope means that nearly everyone on campus has a role in helping the university achieve its compliance goals. Beyond satisfying legal obligations, Accessible Iowa aligns with the university’s 2022—2027 Strategic Plan objectives to remove barriers that often affect students or employees with disabilities.
Remove, Revise, and Do It Right
Digital accessibility starts with smart choices—not fixing everything at once. Begin by reviewing your content: webpages, documents, videos, emails, images and social media.
First ask: Is it current? Still used? Necessary?
Next, use the "Three R's approach:
Remove
Remove content you do not need to share right now and delete content you no longer need.
Revise
Revise any digital content you need to share. Remember, if your content is visible to others, it must be in compliance and accessible.
Do It Right
Create new content with digital accessibility in mind. Use Accessibility Checkers when you are creating new files in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or when making a PDF. Make sure you have a Siteimprove score for your web pages and content at a 94 or better.
Remember, you don’t need to fix everything—just focus on what’s still in use. Clean up first, prioritize what matters, and move forward with accessibility in mind. Accessible Iowa is here to help you every step of the way.