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Application Design For The Visually Impaired |
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by Jon Reynolds
 Computers are not always easily accessible to those who are living with a disability. Visual impairment especially, poses a big challenge as the computer is a largely visual device. However much attention has been paid to this aspect and application software designers sensitive to the problem have been successful in incorporating elements which make it easier for the visually impaired to use the software.
Visual impairment can take different forms. It can range from colour blindness and low vision to total blindness. Thus application software developers have to keep in mind the vast variety of obstacles that can prevent the software from being accessible. They also need to ensure that the software is compatible with screen readers and other adaptability devices that the user may require.
Color Blindness
When the user suffers from color blindness, he/she will not be able to differentiate one color from another. The application software would thus need to avoid color coding and be operational in monochrome mode. Sometimes colours which vary in darkness can be used as these can be differentiated from each other.
Low vision
Low vision implies that the person can see but faces problems in certain aspects. Some of the common problems of low vision are fogged or blurred vision, peripheral vision where the person can see only with the edges of the eyes and tunnel vision, where the person sees everything as if looking through a drinking straw.
It is possible for those suffering from low vision to access application software if the screen is sufficiently enlarged or the area of focus is enhanced. The software thus has to allow for the adjustment of fonts, colors and cursors. Further it can ensure that the contrast between the text and the background is high and that text is not placed on a patterned background. Maintaining a predictable and consistent layout within the program itself is also helpful.
Blind
Those considered legally blind may still be able to perceive light and have residual vision. Thus application software designers can incorporate elements that will allow a person to use this residual vision even while assuming that the person cannot see at all.
Most of the factors that need consideration for low vision users also apply to those with a greater loss of vision. However, for the completely blind, special screen reading software is essential for access. This software reads the screen and sends the information to a dynamic Braille display or a voice synthesizer which the user can then access to retrieve the information.
The problem becomes a bit more complex when the user has to deal with graphics as screen readers can only read text. However the application software engineer can make it possible to use system tools effectively so that screen readers can identify and name individual tools.
Further, the compatibility of the application software with screen reader can be enhanced through a number of techniques that will allow it to overcome the graphic related problems like reading text embedded in a graphic. Avoiding non text menus and non-redundant graphic tool bars is also helpful when the needs of visually impaired users are being considered.
About the Author: Jon Reynolds is the Director of Client Relations for Cogent Media Group of Indianapolis, Indiana. Cogent Media Group offers state-of-the-art Application Design and Software Development for businesses located all over the world. Visit their website for more information on application design.
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