Description:
Modernizing Audio Information for those with visual impairments.
In this digital age, we are constantly bombarded with the newest online communication technology trends: news apps, online streaming, interactive online games… But unfortunately, an estimated 70% is not accessible to blind users.
Over 500 Amazon Echo’s have been distributed at no charge for the user, specially equipped with skills specifically curated to help the blind access critical news and information.
This leaves an enormous amount of the US population (an estimates 7,600,000 Americans) without the privileges of free access to the web – including news, weather, social media, job listings, online medical appointments, and so much more we take for granted.
However, one exception is the emergence of smart speakers and voice-activated companions such as the Amazon Echo. This technology uses universal design to be usable by people of all abilities, particularly individuals that are blind.
I played a leading role in the planning, implementation and management of this multi-year project.
Project Outline:
- Qualitative Study
- Amazon Skill Development & Management
Qualitative Study
My roles: Account Management, Trainer, Communications
In a qualitative study of 20 blind seniors, we found that Amazon Echo’s have a significant positive impact on the users ability to be self sufficient and connected to their communities.
My role in the study was managing the seniors accounts, installing the devices, coordinating monthly training sessions with the users, and writing reports of the study for publishing.
Amazon Skill Development & Management
From our study, we learned about the efficacy of Echo’s to help blind users – however we also learned that many of the existing Alexa skills did not meet the unique needs of our users. In response, I helped to plan the development of four skills to allow our users to access local news and information.
alexleighflynn.com 