CMU Ranny Zhao Dahiana Jimenez Adrian Lopez

 Describes the degree to which a product is accessible by as many people as possible.  Often used to focus on people with disabilities and their right of access to entities - usually through use of assistive technology.  Accessibility is not to be confused with usability  the extent to which a product/device can be used by specified users to achieve specified goals with effectiveness in a specified context of use.

 Includes adaptive devices for people with disabilities.  The Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988  AT promotes greater independence by enabling people to perform tasks that they were formerly unable to accomplish.

 Conduct business  Interact with family and friends  Manage health  Independence 54 million people nationwide rely on AT daily to improve their quality of life Children/schools Elderly Athletes

 Visionary  Braille 1821 by Louis Braille  Glasses  Contacts  Immobility  Canes  Manual Wheelchairs  Elevators  Escalators 1800s

 Illness or disability  Vision problems Simple change font size and color for better visibility alternative keyboards scanner and reading software  Limited dexterity voice recognition  hands free Alternative input devices  Cognitive problems Electronic reminders  Personal Digital Assistants (SMS) Programmable keys

 Now  Electronic Wheelchairs  Public busses accessibility Through electronic ramps  Drivers with Wheelchair Dependency  Independent access to personal car  Enclosed carrier attached to car  Economic Benefit

 Criticisms  Accessibility Integration into typical operating systems Voice control/read out loud (Microsoft)  Affordability Improvement of technology Cheaper prices Loans of equipment/ technology Government assistance

 Technology is often created without regard to people with disabilities.  Similar Interests as nondisabled  Growth of Assistive Technology  Think Broader