Participants were asked to share how, if at all, technology changes have impacted and/or impeded their access to information. Several participants stated that improved AT has led to an increase in access to information and opened more doors for those with accessibility needs (n=27). Twenty-three participants spoke to how new technology has come a long way and improved access with, of course, certain exceptions, and 10 participants noted how the level of AT accessibility really depends on the device and technology being used. Improved assistive technology has also helped people regain independence and improved people’s quality of life (n=7). Other comments spoke to the support that assistive technologies offer to enhance work and school productivity, while also discussing certain limitations of AT, such as a need to improve brightness and contrast on devices.
Participants were asked to share what they want technology developers to know about their needs as persons who are blind, have low vision, or are deafblind. Seventy-five participants communicated a need for integrating features that optimize access across websites and mobile applications (reduce visual clutter, adjust contrast, label buttons, provide image descriptions, etc.). Many others want technology developers to include accessibility from the beginning. “Nothing created without us in mind from the floor up,” is how one participant communicated this message. Others (n=32) called for equal access, “We want the same opportunities to enjoy, learn, and benefit from useful technology.”
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