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Fortune database entry no.
96
Book:
Magazin:
Project Description:
Internet Resource:
Area(s) of Application:
Product Development, Social and Vocational Integration
Relevant Player(s):
Manufacturer, Dealer, Enduser, Research Institute
Thematic Issue(s):
Methods / Strategies, Recommendations
Methods/Strategies:
Usability Tests, Focus Groups / User Groups, Questionnaires
Improving access to computers for blind and visually impaired-The
development of a test method for usability
Improving the Quality of Life for the European Citizen; Assistive
Technology Research Series, Volume 4
Author:
Stig Becker, Dan Lundman
Abstract:
Designers and developers of screen readers and other access
tools, users of assistive technology, purchasers and rehabilitation
experts all need relevant and up-to-date information on strengths
and weaknesses of products on the market. Usability tests can
provide them with needed information and will improve product
quality and promote the development of better products.
CESAR (Comparative Evaluation of Screen Alternatives for Reading)
is a joint project conducted by the Swedish Handicap Institute
and the Swedish Employability Assessment Institutes and focuses
on usability. The overall objective for the project is to promote
improved accessibility. Blind or visually impaired users should
have equal access to computer applications as sighted users.
19 access tools were tested by three test pilots. Two of them
were blind and were skilled Braille readers. The results were
noted on a check list step by step. The columns on the list
are subtasks, ratings, comments. When the test was completed,
the check list could be used as a test protocol for the tested
product. The completed test protocols were sent to the manufacturers
as an input source for improving their products. User involvement
and systematic usability tests will give the necessary know-how
to make graphical user interfaces fully accessible to blind
and visually impaired persons.
Editor:
Inmaculada Placencia Porrero, Egidio Ballabio
Publisher:
IOS Press
,
Amsterdam, Berlin, Oxford, Tokyo, Washington, DC
,
1998
ISBN / ISSN:
90 5199 406 0
Relevant Pages:
6-9
Project Name:
CESAR Project
Name of Institution
The Swedish Handicap Institute
European Context:
Telematics Application Programme, Disabled and Elderly Sector,
3rd TIDE Congress, 23-25 June 1998, Helsinki
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