Digital Accessibility Policy
1. Policy Statement
The Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) is committed to ensuring that its digital content, services, and platforms are accessible to individuals of all abilities, including individuals with disabilities. IMEC strives to provide an inclusive and equitable digital experience that enables access to its programs, services, training, and resources.
IMEC aims to conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA, which serve as the recognized standard for digital accessibility.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all IMEC digital assets, including but not limited to:
- Public-facing websites and web applications
- Digital documents and online materials
- Internal web-based systems, platforms, and tools used by employees
3. Accessibility Standards and Practices
IMEC incorporates accessibility into its digital practices through the following measures:
- Designing and maintaining digital content in alignment with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards
- Promoting clear navigation, readability, and usability across platforms
- Considering accessibility in the selection, development, and implementation of digital tools and technologies
- Integrating accessibility into ongoing content updates and system enhancements
4. Third-Party Content and Platforms
IMEC utilizes third-party tools and platforms to support its operations and service delivery. While IMEC does not control the accessibility of third-party content, accessibility is considered during vendor selection.
If accessibility barriers are identified in third-party systems, IMEC will make reasonable efforts to provide accessible alternatives or accommodations.
5. Accessibility Assistance and Feedback
IMEC provides mechanisms for individuals to report accessibility barriers or request assistance. Requests may be submitted through:
- The website chatbot
- Email info@imec.org
To support timely resolution, individuals are encouraged to include:
- The webpage, document, or feature in question
- A description of the issue encountered
- The type of assistance or format requested
IMEC will respond to accessibility requests in a timely manner and will make reasonable efforts to provide requested information or services in an accessible format.
6. Internal Responsibilities
IMEC employees are expected to support accessibility as part of standard business practices. This includes:
- Considering accessibility when selecting, developing, or using digital tools and systems
- Identifying and reporting accessibility barriers
- Applying established accessibility guidelines when creating digital content, including presentations and documents
Employees who encounter accessibility barriers in internal systems should report the issue to their immediate supervisor or the Vice President of Talent. IMEC will evaluate and implement appropriate accommodations or system improvements where feasible.
7. Governance and Continuous Improvement
IMEC designates responsibility for oversight of digital accessibility to appropriate leadership. IMEC will periodically review its digital content and systems to identify and address accessibility barriers and to improve alignment with evolving standards and regulatory expectations.
8. Limitations
While IMEC strives to ensure accessibility across all digital content, certain legacy materials or external content may not fully meet current accessibility standards. IMEC will work to provide accessible alternatives upon request where feasible.
