Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Audio Descriptive Device at Disney

I found a neat video from Disney. It introduced the viewers to a device called an Audio Descriptive device. Basically the device is used to help provide services to guests with disabilities at Disney's theme parks. In the video we see how the device can be used by guests with visual impairments to access information while visiting the parks. The nest part about the device is that rather than just be a pre-recorded message, it provides the guest with small bits of information and then they can choose if they wish to access more. There is a neat little demo of how the device works included in the video. The video also includes some interesting information on what went into developing the device to make as accessible as possible. Things such as the importance of having tactile buttons are discussed.

Of course, we need to recognize that this video is produced by Disney, and so there is obviously other motives at play, but nonetheless, the device, and its application in this setting is interesting.
I would like to learn more about what Disney, and other companies with large finical resources are doing to be accessible.