Guest post by Karen Cole, Xerox AAA Marketing Manager
A few weeks ago, we celebrated the Fourth of July, our American Independence Day. Soon, on July 26, we celebrate the 25th anniversary of citizens benefiting from the world’s first comprehensive declaration of equality and independence for those with disabilities, the American Disabilities Act (A.D.A.)
The ADA anniversary is a time to reflect on a law that has had a great impact on the lives of people with disabilities and on our country over the past 25 years. The message within the law’s preamble is powerful. It clearly states Congressional intent that the law should “assure equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency for individuals with disabilities.”
Equality in the Office Environment
Nearly 38 percent of visually impaired residents of the United States are employed. That’s about 15 million workers. Banks, technology firms, entertainment companies, restaurants and other corporations are among those making monumental changes that have benefited visually impaired workers and those of all disabilities.
These enterprises offer opportunities for employees to feel independent, empowered and confident alongside their peers. Still, common office tasks like printing, faxing and copying can make those with disabilities dependent on their peers for assistance, leaving them feeling burdensome or frustrated.
A New Solution for Accessibility
Xerox recognized this challenge and responded with the Xerox Adaptable Accessibility Solution. No newcomer to the pursuit of accessibility, Xerox developed this new technology with testing insights from government and non-profit agencies to make common office tasks equally easy for people of all abilities. The solution is legislative-compliant (Section 508) and exceeds the minimum requirements for proposals written for government contracts. It is also Common Access Card (CAC) compliant.
The Accessibility Solution resides on a common Android tablet mounted on a copier or printer and tilt-able for users in wheelchairs. It is audible for the blind and visually impaired. By simply touching the tablet panel, any user can program their document for copy, scan or print with numerous print attributes.
Watch this YouTube video to learn how this solution made a difference for the Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired (ABVI) in Rochester, NY.
