Free online resource to help businesses understand the needs of disabled customers and service users around technology were launched by Business Disability Forum today (20 May).
The Technology Toolkit provides practical advice and strategies for business on how to introduce inclusive technology into their existing systems. The toolkit has been created by disabled people and accessibility experts from Business Disability Forum’s Technology Taskforce.
When used well, technology can improve the user experience for disabled consumers by making products and services more accessible. Speaking about how live captioning on their phone has changed their life, one man told Business Disability Forum:
“For the first time in my life I was able to call like everyone else, just pick up and phone someone. And it’s wonderful. Now, I’m able to call my son, my doctor, my builder, my banker, anybody. Seriously, I use my phone literally every day, where before that I didn’t and that is what inclusivism means.”
However, technology can also be a barrier if the needs of disabled people have not been taken into account. With the spending power of disabled people in the UK estimated to be £274 billion, Business Disability Forum is urging all businesses to take an inclusive approach to technology.
Business Disability Forum’s Tech Taskforce Manager, Lucy Ruck, said:
“Thinking about accessibility from the beginning reduces the need for retrofitting later and makes good business sense. But creating inclusive tech solutions is not just about disability. It is about making products and services that work better for everyone and for your organisation. This makes accessibility an essential issue for all businesses.”
The Technology Toolkit includes resources on:
- Integrating assistive technology tools within existing systems.
- Using commonly available consumer technology to improve inclusion.
- Understanding the role of new and emerging technologies, including AI.
- Purchasing technology that will work for everyone, including disabled people.
- Using accessibility standards and user testing to make informed decisions.
Go to the Technology Toolkit homepage to access the free toolkit.
