The latest news

App report highlights need for inclusive design

03/05/2012

A new report has been published that analyses the key issues relating to mobile apps for older and disabled people.

Given that over half of the UK now owns a smartphone – coupled with the growth in the use of tablet computers – the report explores the benefits apps can offer.

Sponsored by BT, the report Moving together: mobile apps for inclusion and assistance is published by the OneVoice for Accessible ICT Coalition – an umbrella group of likeminded organisations that acts as single voice for ICT accessibility and usability.

Crucially, the report isn't just for people using apps. It is also aimed at app developers and provides tips on how to make apps more inclusive.

Writing in the foreword, Liz Williams General Manager, BT Retail Corporate Responsibility says that apps have the 'potential for social good' – but only if they are accessible to all.

"For some, the exploration of apps is a natural journey that they revel in. For others, it can be a frightening unknown and they may never get there without a guide".

"This may be particularly true for people with disabilities and those who are older, even though for them the positive potential is arguably even greater, with some apps already on the market that can be incredibly life-enhancing." she said.

You can download the report from this website: http://www.onevoiceict.org/news/moving-together-mobile-apps-inclusion-and-assistance

90% of web site exclude disabled staff, says AbilityNet

02/05/2012

It's over a decade since website accessibility became a legal requirement and yet more than 90% of site still exclude disabled people, according to AbilityNet, a charity dedicated to enabling people with disabilities to access technology.

Yet having an accessible website is not just about legal and moral obligation – it also makes business sense.

According to Dave Barrett, senior inclusion and accessibility manager at BT Retail, having an accessible web site is a 'no brainer'.

"The real truth is that we all prefer accessible web sites. Why? Because they are simpler, easier and more intuitive to use." writes Dave in his latest blog.

"This means less time is wasted navigating around them and people will visit them more often. Search engines also like them because information is easier to find, so they tend to get placed higher in search lists, which means they usually get more hits." he said.

You can read the blog in full here.

Minister for Culture joins Mariella Frostrup to promote UK Technology4Good 2012

28/03/2012

Communications Minister Ed Vaizey and TV presenter, Mariella Frostrup, are just two of the names getting behind this year's UK Technology4Good Awards – a national competition to encourage digital inclusion in the community. They are urging businesses, charities, schools, social enterprises and individuals to enter the awards when nominations open on 7th March 2012.

Launched for the first time last year when it attracted over 250 entries, Technology4Good is the brainchild of e-Accessibility charity, AbilityNet. With sponsorship from BT and other technology companies, the Awards Ceremony is compèred by Mariella Frostrup.

Mr Vaizey said:

"Digital technology has changed the way we do so much and has opened up a world of new possibilities. Staying in touch with family and friends, shopping in far-off stores and accessing essential services have become so much easier thanks to the Internet.

"Some of those who could benefit most from the digital revolution are currently being excluded. We must ensure technology is accessible to as many people as possible. The Technology4Good Awards are an excellent way of recognising new and innovative ideas that will grow new markets and deliver the benefits of the digital world to more people."

The UK Technology4Good Awards celebrate the many ways that technology contributes to the greater good in categories such as innovation and community impact, volunteering and fundraising.

Last year, a charity which brings digital fun and learning opportunities to 5,000 children in hospices nationwide, was the toast of the first Technology4Good Awards, winning both the Accessibility Award and the Best in Show.

Other winners included silver surfing ambassador, Colin Crook, who helps sheltered housing residents get on-line; a community cybercafé which grew out of a fish and chip shop in Stockport and a Merseyside-based, on-line radio station for the over 50s.

Technology4Good Awards are free to enter and the deadline for submission is 18th May 2012.