Many of us are creatures of habit, especially when it comes to the operating systems we use on our computers. We get comfortable with Microsoft or another system, Mac vs. Windows, and so forth. Then when updates come along, we may wonder if our world is getting a bit more than tweaked.
That’s why I was glad for David Goldfield’s post updating me with Microsoft’s latest announcement of programs being discontinued, changed, or updated. And believe me, when you view this link, you’ll see it’s hot off the presses.
If you are teaching assistive technology or the user who loves keeping abreast with JAWS Zoomtext, and Fusion versions, you will be prepared to see what adjustments may appearing in the next ones to come. After all, screen reading developers sometimes feel as if they are a half to full step behind the latest technological advances unfolding at warp speed.
However, as closer ties between web developers and screen reading software programmers more quickly bind, the more pertinent updates like this one will help both assistive tech professionals and the average user.
As always, those advocating for better web accessibility will want to keep in touch with the accessibility and special accommodations teams at the major software development sources.
In addition, companies in both the private and government sectors of the job market will need to recognize these changes when talking with perspective blind employees. Sometimes, even some of our better computer users will not be aware of the more finite or cutting edge developments. So when being hired into a programming position, call center, or similar office environment, they will need a little give and take when communicating with managers, on-the-job trainers, and work coaches while tech. specialists from Freedom Scientific’s providers bring a terminal or whole network into 508 compliance.
Changes will always happen which contour ways we navigate inclusion as employees, management, rehabilitation personnel, and assistive technology instructors. We certainly can be thankful for the legal guidelines such as the ADA and Rehabilitation Act whose standards
are always being improved. However, articles like this one help us all at the grassroots level so we who are boldly blind can navigate life’s contours.
Boldly Blind 