Microsoft Windows XP Attracts Users With Disabilities

No doubt about it. Bill Gates has done it again.

In mid-November, Microsoft Corp. introduced Windows XP. With built-in accessibility features and compatability with more than a dozen assistive-technology products, it caters to the specific needs of users with vision, hearing, mobility, cognitive and seizure-related disabilities.

"The accessibility of Windows XP provides better integration with assistive technology and helps our customers achieve more, communicate better and get help more easily," said Chris Jones, vice president of the Windows Client Group at Microsoft.

Accessibility enhancements in Windows XP allow customers with disabilities to become more productive and efficient by enabling them to more easily customize Windows XP based on their own accessibility needs and preferences. Accessibily features, including Magnifier and Narrator, provide temporary accessibility support for individuals who need short-term use of a computer or need to set up their own computer for the first time.

In an effort to work more closely with the disability community, Microsoft sought in-depth feedback from various vendors within the assistive-technology field. Therefore, professionals who have a unique understanding of the computing needs for people with disabilities contributed.

"Our goal is to be certain that each new product is easier for our customers to operate, including those of our customers with disabilities," said Gary Moulton, manager of assistive technology vendor relations at Microsoft. "Feedback from our customer and assistive-technology vendors is the cornerstone for us in achieving that goal."

And the good news keeps getting better. "The Windows XP operating system incorporates disability access to both the best of the past and the challenges of the future. It¹s the equal playing field upon which the contributions of both those who can see the screen and those who cannot can be harvested," said Charles Crawford, executive director of the American Council for the Blind (ACB).

In its development stages, Microsoft also considered section 508 of the federal Rehabilitation Act, which requires federal agencies to consider accessibility issues before they purchase, procure and maintain new electronic and information technologies.

In the past, assistive-technology users waited up to 18 months for assistive-technology devices to support newly-released operating systems. This time, however, assistive-technology vendors ensured that many helpful aids, including screen readers, screen magnifiers, on-screen keyboards and hardware such as one-handed keyboards and augmentative communication devices were available when Windows XP hit the shelves.

Lastly, feedback from users with disabilities indicates the strong likelihood that Windows XP will be successful in the future.

"Windows XP offers users multi-sensory technologies that provide communication accessibility for people who face communication challenges. Delivering Windows XP with iCommunicator Software allows our disabled clientele greater speed and reliability when communicating in the home, classroom and workplace. This is a very important advancement for all people with disabilities," said Michael Dorety, president of Interactive Solutions.