FCC Looking to Improve Technology Accessibility for All

Imagine the frustration you feel when the internet is down or you don’t have the right plugin to watch a video. Losing that immediate access to information can be a major hindrance in this hyper-connected time. People with disabilities often experience similar frustration with the barriers they face accessing technology. In an effort to help overcome these obstacles, The National Broadband Plan (NBP), a division of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), is seeking comments to help launch their new Accessibility and Innovation Forum in July.

The Forum’s goal is to promote innovative solutions to broadband and other communications technology barriers by encouraging input with ongoing online efforts, workshops, field events, and facilitated dialogues. Currently they’re seeking input on launching an online clearinghouse. To provide feedback, or to find out more about their future initiatives, visit their blog.

Wired Wisconsin partner IndependenceFirst is another great resource for people with disabilities who want to find out more about improving their access to technology. The organization’s mission is to “effectively facilitate empowerment of individuals with disabilities.” As part of this mission they have developed an Assistive Technology Program. They provide information about products and services about assistive technology and adaptive equipment that help people with disabilities find technology that works for them.

Ensuring that everyone has reliable and convenient access to technology is essential. Both the FCC and IndependenceFirst are doing great things to ensure technology is accessible to all demographics.