Pro-Touch

DDA Kiosks; Why it matters

Back to all News

Technology has been developed to aid users in self-service, communication and to improve accessibility of modern facilities. Translation and language based kiosks have become hugely popular within many businesses to ensure the support of multilingual users, however now more than ever kiosks have become essential to give anyone, no matter their ability or disability, the support they need. Touch screen kiosks can be used to guide those who have visual, hearing, physical or reading disabilities; whether you deal mainly with the disabled, or you simply understand the importance of every customer receiving the experience they deserve.

Physically disabled
Most companies implement the usual accommodations for the physically impaired; such as disabled access, car parking spaces etc. However, according to the Office for Disability Issues, roughly a third of disabled people still experience difficulties in accessing commercial and leisure goods or public services even with these aids. This is due to the fact that enabling technological access is often ignored. Touch screen kiosks allow those with disabilities to access what they want, without the need for assistance. Easy wheelchair access can be provided with floor standing kiosks, and kiosks are set to the correct height according to the users needs. Overall, they present an opportunity for the physically disabled to be more independent in their use of the facilities provided.

Blind or visually impaired
The challenge with kiosks is in making them user friendly for blind or visually impaired users. The key is to achieve a balance which offers the same level of service for all, therefore complying with the Disability Discrimination Act, but which also appropriately supports users in whichever way is suitable. Kiosks are able to give a full service for the blind or visually impaired through larger monitors, bigger buttons, voice technologies, and braille options. These enhancements mean the touch screens kiosks are capable of providing complete access for the blind or visually impaired, without the need for human assistance.