WCAG
W3C standard for accessible web content worldwide
FISMA
U.S. federal law for risk-based cybersecurity frameworks
Quick Verdict
WCAG ensures web accessibility for disabled users worldwide via testable criteria, while FISMA mandates risk-based cybersecurity for U.S. federal systems. Organizations adopt WCAG for legal/ethical inclusion and FISMA for contractual compliance and resilience.
WCAG
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2
Key Features
- Testable success criteria at A/AA/AAA conformance levels
- POUR principles organize 13 guidelines hierarchically
- Technology-agnostic across web platforms and frameworks
- Backward-compatible incremental version updates
- Strict full-pages and complete-processes requirements
FISMA
Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA)
Key Features
- Risk-based NIST RMF 7-step process
- Continuous monitoring and diagnostics required
- Applies to agencies and contractors
- Annual independent IG maturity assessments
- Real-time major incident reporting
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
WCAG Details
What It Is
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 is the W3C's globally recognized, technology-agnostic framework for web accessibility. It provides testable success criteria under POUR principles—Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust—to ensure content meets diverse disability needs across web platforms.
Key Components
- Four POUR principles with 13 guidelines and ~90 success criteria at A/AA/AAA levels.
- Normative criteria separate from evolvable informative techniques/failures.
- Conformance requires full pages, complete processes, accessibility-supported tech, non-interference.
Why Organizations Use It
- Aligns with regulations like ADA, Section 508, EN 301 549, EAA reducing litigation.
- Enhances UX, SEO, conversion; expands market to 1B+ disabled users.
- Builds trust, unlocks procurement, cuts support costs.
Implementation Overview
Phased: governance/policy, audits, remediation via design systems/CI tools, training, monitoring. Universal applicability; AA typical target. Optional claims via VPAT/ACR; no central certification.
FISMA Details
What It Is
Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) is a U.S. federal law establishing a risk-based framework for protecting federal information and systems. Enacted in 2014, it mandates agency-wide security programs focusing on confidentiality, integrity, and availability via NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF).
Key Components
- NIST RMF 7-step process: Prepare, Categorize, Select, Implement, Assess, Authorize, Monitor.
- NIST SP 800-53 controls (20 families, ~1,000+ requirements) tailored by FIPS 199 impact levels (Low/Moderate/High).
- Continuous monitoring, POA&Ms, SSPs, and privacy integration.
- Oversight via OMB, DHS/CISA, IGs with maturity metrics.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for federal agencies/contractors handling federal data.
- Reduces breach risks, enhances resilience and efficiency.
- Enables federal contracts, FedRAMP alignment; builds trust.
- Strategic risk culture for mission alignment.
Implementation Overview
- Phased RMF lifecycle with governance, inventory, controls, assessments.
- Applies to agencies, contractors (all sizes, U.S.-focused).
- Agency ATOs, annual IG audits, no central certification. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | WCAG | FISMA |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Web content accessibility for disabilities | Federal information systems security |
| Industry | All web-publishing organizations globally | U.S. federal agencies and contractors |
| Nature | Voluntary W3C technical standard | Mandatory U.S. federal law |
| Testing | Automated/manual/AT testing, periodic audits | Continuous monitoring, IG assessments, RMF |
| Penalties | Litigation risk, no direct penalties | Funding loss, contract termination, oversight |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about WCAG and FISMA
WCAG FAQ
FISMA FAQ
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