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Technology

Accessible and usable workplace technologies, and various types of assistive technology, are paramount to helping people with disabilities succeed on the job and deliver for their employers. Reflecting this, ODEP has a long history of exploring policies that will advance the development and adoption of accessible, interoperable and usable information and communication technologies (ICT) in the workplace.

Framework for Designing and Implementing Accessible Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Strategic Plans

ODEP's Accessible Technology in the Workplace Initiative has drafted a paper to help employers develop a corporate-wide, comprehensive strategic plan for adopting and implementing accessible ICT corporate policies, practices and procedures in their own workplace.

On December 8 the U.S. Access Board released for public comment a revised draft of updated accessibility requirements for ICT covered by Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act. This latest version includes changes made in response to public feedback received on an earlier draft issued last year. The released draft is available for public comment until March 7. During the comment period, the Board will hold public hearings in Washington, D.C. on January 11 and at the annual CSUN Conference in San Diego on March 1.

Working toward a future where workplace applications are accessible, interoperable, usable, and universally designed, ODEP has facilitated a variety of national dialogues on accessible technology issues. In addition, ODEP has built strong partnerships between public- and private-sector stakeholders and supported the development of tools that demonstrate the strategic advantage of designing, building and procuring accessible ICT.

The following resources provide more information related to accessible and assistive technology in the workplace:

  • Disability.gov Technology Resources — Information about assistive technologies such as communication devices, screen readers, equipment to improve mobility and many kinds of accessible technologies that help people live independently. Also includes information about the accessibility features of new technologies such as digital books and smart phones.
  • Technology Resources — Downloadable fact sheets, whitepapers and additional resources provided by the Job Accommodation Network (JAN).
  • Building Accessible Websites — Educational resources and tips for building accessible websites and other applications provided by the Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN).
  • Tips for Building Accessible Websites — JAN's 15-step tool to self assess the accessibility of your online application system.
  • World Wide Web Consortium's (W3C) Web Accessibility Initiative — W3C's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) document, which explains how to make Web content accessible to people with disabilities.
  • U.S. Access Board Section 508 Home Page — Standards issued by the Access Board under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act that cover access to electronic and information technology procured by federal agencies.
  • Section 508.gov — Official website for Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, which requires that federal agencies' electronic and information technology is accessible to people with disabilities.
  • Roadmaps for Enhancing Employment of Persons with Disabilities Through Accessible Technology — Two reports that identify actionable steps that can be taken by the business community and government to facilitate the widespread adoption of accessible technology policies and practices by businesses.
  • ODEP/ATIA Research Report — A report prepared by the Assistive Technology Industry Association for ODEP on action items and policy issues for consideration regarding ways to promote accessible design within the software and hardware development community, especially in the information and communications technology (ICT) industries, as it relates to the employment of persons with disabilities.