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Enabling TechnologiesFiscal 1995 Project Portfolio Report
Earl Johnson, Principal Investigator
Overall ObjectiveThe overall objective of the Enabling Technologies (ET) project is to develop an accessible computer, one which gives computer users with disabilities equal access to the computers and applications used in today's electronic workplace. Examples of disabilities include Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), low vision, and blindness. Our approach continues to be to develop education for the user and developer, to develop programming tools that will support computer accessibility, and to enhance Sun's product design methods.
Objective for FY95Project efforts have focused on developing a core set of educational and technological solutions that highlight the benefits of accessible product design. This year's work was on developing a long range plan and development strategy which provides financial justification for expanding the project, visiting with customers in order to better understand their accessibility needs, and sponsoring projects that will lead to a greater influence in Sun's technology development groups. Description
DescriptionDeveloping the important technology and methodology that will lead to the accessible computer are the primary keys to ET project success. Technologies range from simple solutions such as StickyKeys and keyboard shortcuts to more complicated tool kits, screen readers, and speech recognition. Methodologies cover, for example, user education on how to use the computer in an ergonomically correct fashion, as well as education for the developer on how to build accessible applications such as word processors, as well as assistive technologies. The approach to the accessible platform depends on the formation of a partnership between Sun, independent software vendors (ISV), and access technology developers (ATD). Sun's role in the partnership is to understand the technical needs of the ISV and ATD so they can be provided with the necessary development tools. The ISV's and ATD's role will be to utilize these access-enhancing tools in their product design processes. Enabling Technologies' approach continues to focus on being the architect for the infrastructure development that is necessary to make this partnership a success. This goal will be accomplished when we can provide ATDs with programming interfaces that expose application information and ISVs with the tools and knowledge necessary to allow access-friendly application development.
Accomplishments
ReferencesPublicationsBergman, E. and E. Johnson. "Towards Accessible Human-Computer Interaction." In Advances in Human-Computer Interaction 5, edited by J. Nielson. New Jersey: Ablex Publishing Co., 1995.
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