Disability, accessibility, product design, universal design, user model, Telecommunications Act
Abstract
The panel session presents and discusses why and how consumers with disabilities are participating in various elements of product design and development. Due especially to public policy and public relations pressures, companies in the infonnation industry are improving their responsiveness to the needs of their customers with disabilities. Since in-house design staffs usually lack detailed knowledge about disability and how functional limitations affect product usability, there is a perceived design resource gap. One method companies are using is to bring these consumers into their businesses as consultants for design and other purposes. The panel will discuss some key programs, current trends, and the implications for participatory design in general.
