Randolph-Sheppard Business Enterprise Program: Assistive Technology and its

Potential for Blind EntrepreneursContentsRandolph-Sheppard Business Enterprise Program: Assistive Technology and its Potential for Blind Entrepreneurs.............................................................................................................................................1

Purpose.......................................................................................................................................................2

Learning Objectives.....................................................................................................................................2

Introduction.................................................................................................................................................2

The Tech Act................................................................................................................................................3

Determing an Individual’s AT Needs............................................................................................................4

The AT Team............................................................................................................................................4

Determining What the Blind Entrepreneur Can See................................................................................4

Conducting a Job Analysis........................................................................................................................5

Determine Best Mode of Access..............................................................................................................6

Decide what AT solutions are going to work best....................................................................................6

Types of AT..................................................................................................................................................7

Computer Magnification for Low Vision Clients......................................................................................7

Video Magnification................................................................................................................................8

Reading Machines...................................................................................................................................9

Screen Readers......................................................................................................................................10

Braille Displays.......................................................................................................................................10

Smart Phone..........................................................................................................................................11

More Useful AT......................................................................................................................................12

Role of Business Consultant......................................................................................................................13

Who’s Paying for AT?.................................................................................................................................13

Future of AT...............................................................................................................................................14

PurposeTo provide the Business Consultant with basic knowledge about Assistive Technology (AT) and its place in providing full access for Randolph-Sheppard Entrepreneurs.

Learning Objectives1. The Consultant will be able to understand what AT devices and services are.2. The Consultant will understand the importance of effective AT evaluations, and what

resources are available to conduct them.3. The Consultant will learn about the importance of keeping up with emerging technology

and resources to provide information and support for AT.

IntroductionThere are several challenges that must be addressed to allow a person with a significant vision impairment to run their business smoothly and efficiently. Accessing printed material can be one of the most daunting obstacles. From checking expiration dates to identifying currency, print demands are many and varied. One solution is Assistive Technology. The Assistive Technology Act of 2004 defines Assistive Technology (AT) as “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.” (29 U.S.C. Sec 2202(2)).

There are three basic categories:1) Technology or equipment that can be used right off the shelf, for example, an iPhone with

VoiceOver access for persons who are blind; 2) Technology or equipment that with some modification or add-on can be used to improve

access, for example, a laptop computer with add-on software that provides magnification; and

3) A device or product system designed specifically for a person who is blind, such as a talking money identifier.

In addition, AT can be very low tech like a rubber band around a can of disinfectant spray to distinguish it from cooking oil spray. It can be medium tech such as a liquid level indicator that is placed on the edge of a glass, and beeps when a liquid rises and touches it, or it can be high tech such as a talking computer system.

Assistive Technology can further be broken down into AT devices and AT services. Devices include hardware like equipment, or technology and software programs. Services include evaluation, set-up, training, and maintenance of AT.

The process of determining the correct AT for a situation need not be a difficult process. Individual needs, including vision and other personal factors, are evaluated in reference to the task that needs to be performed. For example, a facility manager with 20/200 vision may have difficulty reading an overhead menu. The task is to read the menu so that prices are charged

accurately. Possible solutions may include a large print or braille copy that is available to the vendor, providing the person with a monocular that would allow them to read the menu from a distance, taking a photo with an iPhone app called the KNFB Reader and reading it through Voiceover, getting an integrated menu program installed on a cash register that would automatically compute the price, increasing lighting on the sign, making the print larger, moving the sign to a place that is more accessible, having someone read it aloud, memorizing what is on it, or keeping the menu on a computer with an accessible program to read it. The cost, practicality, and usability of these solutions vary considerably, as well as the preferences and experiences of the vendor. Diagnosing the appropriate AT for someone with a disability really depends on the specific needs of the individual being evaluated. For example, there is no reason to get a braille copy of the menu if the vendor does not read braille. Most state VR programs have rehabilitation engineers or assistive technology specialists who can assist with the AT evaluation process. The BEP Consultant may be called upon to provide input into the requirements of the vendor’s exact work situation.

The Tech ActIn 1988, Congress passed the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act, also known as the “Tech Act.” Congress found that technology was a powerful force that provided tools to help individuals work more efficiently. They realized that individuals with disabilities would benefit greatly if they had access to AT devices and services that could help compensate for functional limitations due to disabling conditions. The Tech Act surmised that AT devices and services would give individuals with disabilities greater control over their own lives. AT devices and services would help individuals with disabilities participate in and contribute more fully to activities in their home, school, and work environments.

In establishing state Tech Act programs, each was given specific authority in the area of AT. Here is a summary of the primary points of the Tech Act:

Programs were empowered to evaluate the technology needs of an individual with a disability in their customary environment. This helps the person doing the assessment gain a better perspective on what their client will need.

Authority was given to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) staff to purchase or lease AT devices for individuals with a disability after the evaluation has taken place.

Authority was given to state Tech Act programs to select, design, fit, customize, adapt, apply, maintain, repair, or replace assistive technology devices.

The Tech Act programs were also invested with responsibility to coordinate using therapies, interventions, or services with AT devices, such as those associated with existing education and rehabilitation plans and programs.

Lastly, the Tech Act programs were invested with the ability to train and/or provide technical assistance for professionals, employers, or others who employ or are involved with individuals with disabilities.

Determing an Individual’s AT Needs

The AT TeamThere are several individuals involved in helping to find the right equipment for a blind entrepreneur:

AT Specialist –bears the major responsibility for providing an assessment and making recommendations. However, not all VR programs have people who are knowledgeable about BEP and blindness and low vision in this position, so it may be a state employee or an outside consultant.

VR Counselor –the person who referred the consumer to the BEP program and who can assist in financing the purchase of AT and training in its use. They are usually knowledgeable about AT.

BEP Business Consultant –your role is to assist in defining the various job tasks where AT may be necessary based on the individual’s visual limitations.

Consumer –the blind entrepreneur may or may not be knowledgeable about AT and what is available. They can identify what modes are most comfortable for them to use and what tasks they have difficulty with or feel like they need improved efficiency.

The above-named individuals are the main members of the AT Team. However, there are others who may be involved as needed: An Orientation & Mobility Specialist, a Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (aka Rehabilitation Teacher), a Low Vision Therapist, or a Vocational Evaluator. In some cases, these individuals can give advice and provide training on some AT.

Determining What the Blind Entrepreneur Can SeeTo be eligible for the BEP Program, individuals will need to have a recent eye report from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. This report will include distance and near visual acuity and any blind spots or field restrictions in their vision. It would also indicate if the individual’s vision is stable or if they have a progressive eye condition which may cause them to lose more vision. If the individual has residual vision, they may also have had a low vision examination to determine if any magnification aids or optical or non-optical devices might be useful in helping them see. In addition, it is useful to do a functional vision assessment (FVA) to find out how a

person uses their vision in a particular location or environment. This would consider issues such as lighting, glare, contrast, color, etc. For example, typically a person with a severe visual impairment will need more light. If there is a storage closet with poor lighting, the magnification aids that the blind entrepreneur are using might not be as effective, and they might need to get one with a built-in light. Low vision aids and devices are a part of the process and the VR program in your state will have staff and resources to assist with this.

Figure 1: Low Vision Devices

Conducting a Job AnalysisThe next step is to identify areas where the blind entrepreneur is having difficulty to determine if AT might assist. A job analysis is a systematic procedure for gathering information about the tasks and behaviors needed to do a job. It is good to start with the essential job functions and interview or observe the individual to determine problem areas. Consider elements like skill to accomplish the task, time allowances, effort expended to complete the task, basic responsibilities, and overall working conditions. This could include areas such as computer access, reading and writing reports, checking expiration dates, or stocking shelves.

Figure 2: BEP Snack bar

Determine Best Mode of AccessThe next step is to determine how the blind entrepreneur can most efficiently complete a task. This will vary by task and includes both needs and preferences. For example, a person may need to complete the task of ordering fresh vegetables from a local farmer. The person from whom they order has a list of products that varies each week, and they need to check off what they want and the amount, but the print is small, and the vendor cannot read it. Here are some choices:

Ask the farmer to make the print larger Use a hand-held magnifier to read the form Use an Electronic Magnification Device (e.g., video magnifier or CCTV) to see the large

print and assist in checking the right box Scan the list into a computer and read it in large print or use a speech system Scan in to a computer, use a braille translation program, and print out to either a hard

copy braille list or to a refreshable braille device Have another employee work with the blind entrepreneur to complete the form Assign the task to someone with vision

You want to determine which option is going to be efficient, accurate, allow the blind entrepreneur control and independence in doing the ordering, how much energy or stress is involved in using the device or system, and what may be financially feasible. The answer may be different for different tasks. Perhaps in this instance, a low vision device works fine, but after you evaluate several other tasks it seems that an electronic magnification device is needed, and the blind entrepreneur can use it for this task as well.

Decide what AT solutions are going to work bestBecause AT solutions can be either hardware or software related, or even environmental, like installing a curtain to cut glare from the afternoon sun, much of what is suggested for a client must come from well-trained AT experts who are aware of the array of AT that is available for a person who is blind. These evaluations can take time so that the proper recommendations can be made and individually tailored for the needs of the blind entrepreneur. Although the AT assessment should be conducted before a person is referred as a trainee to the BEP Program, if someone has a change in vision on the job, or they transfer to another facility, then it may be appropriate to revisit the AT assessment. To find the best AT fit there are questions to be considered, such as: What tasks will the blind entrepreneur perform? What technology is available for these types of tasks? What are the blind entrepreneur’s expectations for the technology? What are the training requirements to learn to use the technology? Will the technology be easy to use and transport or does the technology need to be stationed in one place?

Types of ATHere is a look at some of the more traditional AT modifications for computers – usually referred to as Computer Access Technology (CAT) - and some innovative and useful electronic devices. Technology development is moving fast and efforts to keep everything accessible are

sometimes challenging. Apple Corporation set the bar rather high when high total accessibility features like VoiceOver were built right into the device. It is anticipated that we will be seeing more of this in the future. Rather than be really specific, this section is addressing categories of devices and references a few examples but be aware that this is just a small sampling of what is available.

Figure 3: Smart Phones

Computer Magnification for Low Vision ClientsMagnification software is designed for those blind clients that have some level of usable vision. Recently, many device manufacturers already install magnification software on new computers, phones, and tablet devices. Many of these magnification programs now come with synthesized speech output. ZoomText and WindowEyes are software examples.

So how does screen magnification impact the usable workspace on a computer, tablet, or phone? In general, a 2-times screen magnification using screen magnification software can magnify one-quarter of a screen so that it fits the entire screen. A 4-times magnification magnifies one-sixteenth of the screen to fit an entire screen. When a client is using 4-times screen magnification, it is recommended that this person integrate some sort of speech component to enhance their experience.

Many magnification software packages include the ability for users to change colors or invert backgrounds to better suit their viewing preferences. Because there are so many options for using screen reading software, it changes the way a screen can be experienced by the user. Sometimes magnification will change the screen reference points on a device, so it is important for the client to feel comfortable navigating the screen. This takes practice to find out the best solution for everyone. Clients can also use bigger screens or monitors. In some instances, TV screens are used in place of computer screens. Some blind entrepreneurs will use these larger screens as their display monitors. However, if the person can only see a small portion of the screen at a time, this may not be a good option. Using a flat screen TV only makes sense if it fits the vendor’s needs and there is space for the monitor.

Video MagnificationAlong with downloadable screen magnification software, there are hardware magnification devices like video magnifiers (also known as Electronic Magnification Aids (EMAs)) or Closed-Circuit Televisions (CCTVs). Video magnifiers are video magnification hardware devices that are used to magnify “hard copy” into a camera and then onto a monitor or screen for viewing. The text can be enlarged using a magnification knob. Today’s video magnifiers are more versatile and give clients a variety of different functions. Many of these functions mirror the functions of screen magnification software. These video magnifiers give their users the ability to reverse color and change contrast to better suit a client’s personal preferences. Video magnifiers come as desktop or portable versions.

Typically, due to their size and immobility, desktop versions need to be stationed somewhere stable. However, there are more portable versions that can be connected to any monitor. Some also come with roller cases for easy moving. They are primarily used to look at a printed item placed under the camera, but some come with a flip camera that can also be used to see across the room. Because they have a large screen area and can have up to 72x magnification, many visually impaired clients find that desktop video magnifiers are extremely helpful for office work, when an entrepreneur is stationed at a desk and the unit can be plugged in.

Figure 4: Prisma AF Desktop Video Magnifier by Eschenbach Figure 5: Smartview Desktop Video Magnifier by Humanware

Portable magnifiers provide portability and can be used in a variety of different environments. Most units come with various background, color, and magnification options. Although the magnification and stability of portable devices are not as great as with the desktop versions, for some purposes the portability makes it a better choice. For example, reading expiration dates on shelved stock, or reading ingredients on an item. There are also tablet and smart phone apps that will allow the user to enlarge print either through the camera of the device or from stored documents.

Figure 6: The Ruby by Freedom Scientific Figure 7: Pebble HD by Enhanced Vision

Reading MachinesReading machines are stand-alone devices that enable clients to place a document under a scanner, which then electronically transfers the text to the device and reads it aloud to the user. Some have the option of a visual display in large print. These types of technologies are considered Optical Character Recognition (OCR). OCR technology can edit, search, and store text effectively so that it can be accessible.

Figure 8: The SARA Reading machine by Freedom Scientific Figure 9: Two types of Portable KNFB Readers

Reading machines are very helpful if you are reading a large amount of printed text. Most units allow the user to store information for later use. There are handheld versions of the reading machines as well. Handheld versions of the reading machines don’t usually store information, but some are designed to allow their user to listen to the audio files on demand. There are also smartphone apps like the KNFB Reader app that will allow an Android or iPhone smartphone to be used as a reading device.

Screen ReadersScreen readers are software programs that enable blind or visually impaired computer users to read the text that is displayed on a computer screen using a speech synthesizer or braille display. The American Foundation for the Blind describes screen readers this way: A screen

reader is the interface between the computer's operating system, its applications, and the user. The user sends commands by pressing different combinations of keys on the computer keyboard or braille display to instruct the speech synthesizer what to say and to speak automatically when changes occur on the computer screen. A command can instruct the synthesizer to read or spell a word, read a line or full screen of text, find a string of text on the screen, announce the location of the computer's cursor or focused item, and so on. In addition, it allows users to perform more advanced functions, such as locating text displayed in a certain color, reading pre-designated parts of the screen on demand, reading highlighted text, and identifying the active choice in a menu. Users may also use the spell checker in a word processor or read the cells of a spreadsheet with a screen reader. The most popular of these programs for the PC include Job Access with Speech (JAWS), WindowEyes, and an open source reader known as NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA). The screen reader program for Mac is known as Snow Leopard Voiceover, and Linux uses an open source program called Speakup.

Braille DisplaysSome screen readers, like JAWS, also have the capability to format the screen text to be sent to an electronic braille display. Refreshable braille is a system that contains from 12 to 40 braille cells with small pins that rise up to form the braille character. Some devices will translate the braille into a contracted format, and others require special software. If someone is using contracted braille, they may need to get a software translation program like Duxbury and run it out on a braille embosser to produce what is referred to as hard copy braille. There are also PDA-type braille displays known as braille notetakers that have all the capabilities of a smartphone or PDA. This is an excellent place to keep calendars, work schedules, check email, or browse the internet.

Figure 10: Braille display attached to a computer keyboard. Figure 11: Braille Note by Humanware

Smart PhoneWith the accessibility features of iOS devices and related apps, AT that used to require many different devices can all be found in one convenient place. Android developers are following suit, and the result is that there are an incredible number of AT applications that can be found

on both platforms. Applevis.com is a website designed to give information about all the current iOS and android apps that may be useful for people who are blind or visually impaired. It also rates their accessibility. The blind entrepreneur can download apps that allow them to perform other functions that may increase productivity or assist them in the operation of their business. Some examples are the bill identifier app, GPS, or the KNFB Reader. Accessible point-of-sale systems are another valuable tool for those blind entrepreneurs who don’t have access to a register that can track specific product sales. This technology is becoming much more compatible for blind users. The Square, which is an iPhone accessory, provides a point-of-sale for iOS devices with Voiceover has made it possible to have a fully accessible portable system.

Figure 12: The Square attached to an iPhone swiping a credit card

Rajaunnda Gandy, Director of the Georgia Business Enterprise Program, shared the following advantages of using the Square technology for the blind entrepreneurs in her state:

1. Better accounting and reporting. The use of the Square register allows for the vendors to keep electronic records of sales data, purchases & payouts, as well as keep track of their inventory levels.

2. The ability for the vendor manager to accept debit and credit cards in their locations. The use of the Square registers allows for vendors to accept credit cards with or without an internet connection in their location. Given the rise in debit and credit card usage, vendors can’t afford to not offer this service to their customers.

3. Offer customer receipts. The Square register allows for the vendor to be able to offer their customer receipts in three formats: printed, text, or email. The increased usage of smart phones has made electronic receipts more popular. This trend allows the vendors to be able to cut the cost of purchasing receipt paper.

4. Set up public profiles. The use of the iPads also allows for the vendor to be able to set up a public profile through Square register or any other form of social media. This assists the vendor with the marketing of their business and communication with their customers.

5. Bi-weekly reporting to our nominee agency, the GA Cooperative Services. Our vendors are able to use the iPads to do their online reporting of sales, expenses, and payroll.

More Useful ATThere are a variety of devices that are designed to assist those who are blind or visually impaired with everyday activities like cooking and managing money. Some of these devices can also be very useful for a blind entrepreneur while on the job. Large font thermometers, talking thermometers, large font scales, talking scales, and sensors that vibrate when liquid reaches the top of a cup are just a few of the AT devices that might be applicable. In addition, there are talking money identifiers which are available free of charge from the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Debit card systems and online banking have allowed many blind entrepreneurs to move away from check registers, large print or raised line checks, and check templates. Talking cash registers and talking credit card terminals can allow a person who is blind to fully manage the point-of-sale. Also, talking bar code readers can give product information, expiration information, and even cooking directions.

Application of existing technologies that are adapted for use within the BEP program is one of the exciting new things on the AT horizon. For example, telemetry is a system that sets up wireless transmission and reception of measured quantities for the purpose of remotely monitoring conditions or equipment. Information concerning inventories and sales can be transmitted to a distance location. Some BEP programs are equipping vending machines with telemetry devices to assist vendor managers in the operation of their vending routes. In addition, these systems can be used for secure, cashless, unattended self-serve retail locations, such as a convenience store in a hospital. Private companies can assist in setting up programs that provide both accountability and reporting. The telemetry devices allow the vendor and the SLA to go online and see real-time sales data and any issues that may exist with equipment. It also allows the vendor to track their sales from anywhere and get alerts if there are any system issues. The next step is working with telemetry systems to enhance their current management system to be more accessible to blind vendors. This vending management system would allow vendor managers to become more self-efficient in the operation of their vending routes or self-serve retail locations. The vendor managers would be able to independently and remotely access their machines to see which machines require service. It would also provide vendor managers with product information that reveals which merchandise is needed prior to heading to the remote locations. As the BEP managers learn to mine the analytics available through these telemetric systems, they will be able to target customers with directed marketing, and thus increase sales.

Role of Business ConsultantBEP Consultants should know that there are a multitude of evolving AT products and services. When a blind entrepreneur has an access issue, there is likely a device or system that can address it and allow full independent access. It is not necessary for a Consultant to know the nuances of all the AT that is available, but it is important for a Consultant to have a feel for the various types of AT devices that are available, as well as the needs and preferences of the blind entrepreneurs they are serving. Consultants should familiarize themselves with technologies that can make a blind entrepreneur’s work more effective. National and state conferences are great opportunities to do this. Both Blast and Sagebrush conferences invite vendors and

suppliers to demonstrate new and emerging products. Keeping up with technology is a team sport. Everyone needs to be involved, including the blind entrepreneur, the BEP Consultant, and VR staff.

Who’s Paying for AT?Funding is one of the primary considerations when it comes to AT. Recommendations for technology from most state agencies must be necessary, appropriate, and cost effective.

If a client can get assistance from their state’s VR program, purchasing this technology isn’t so prohibitive. When the entrepreneur is getting started, the start-up technology is usually provided by VR. However, after a period of time their case will be closed with VR. In order to get additional or updated equipment after a case is closed will involve either reopening the case in post-employment services or reopening the case entirely, depending upon how much time has passed and how critical the need is. Unless it is expensive equipment that will also require training, it is unlikely that a case will be re-opened. Any good businessperson is going to have to plan for equipment updates, and this should be discussed with the entrepreneur as they are getting started. It may have to be purchased from the business or from the individual. Some state BEP programs may include upgrading or obtaining new AT as part of maintenance and equipment replacement or acquisition. Policies vary from state to state concerning what AT can be provided through the BEP program.

If an entrepreneur must pay for their own technology, it is important to work with them to develop a budget to match their most pressing needs. Identifying what is needed, along with resources to pay for this technology, can greatly aid an entrepreneur. Familiarize yourself with your state’s VR requirements to see what assistance might be available through them or even through the BEP Program itself. It will make you more effective with your recommendations.

Future of ATSince new technologies continue to evolve, supervisors and vendors should be encouraged to keep up with trends. There are many online resources, including blogs and email discussion groups, where you can learn about new products. Determining when technology needs to be upgraded is part of running a business. With new technology comes a learning curve, and potentially the need for additional training. Strategically planning for AT upgrades is as important as upgrading any other business-related equipment.

As for trends, we use our phones for virtually everything these days. Your phone isn’t just a phone anymore. You can now use an app to hail a taxi, identify money, find a bus, or check out the color of your shirt. Technology is becoming cheaper, smaller, and faster. It is collapsing barriers that used to be considered “show stoppers” for blind entrepreneurs. Staying on top of the newest technology will continue to be a challenge, but one that will pay off for both the entrepreneur and the business.

Resources for Assistive Technologyntac.blind.msstate.edu/information-and-resources/ts/

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