Technology is a particularly important enabler for many people. Technology can be directly accessible when it can be used without the need for additional assistive technology, such as a smart phone with a built-in screen reader or text magnifier (e.g. Immersive Reader and Read Aloud functions in Microsoft Word). However, some people with disabilities (and also some people without disability) use assistive technology and tools to access workplace information systems.
Some examples of assistive technology include:
- screen readers
- screen enlargement applications
- voice recognition and transcription programs
- closed captioning
- keyboard and mouse alternatives and adaptions.
An employee with disability may request assistive technology as part of a workplace adjustment to help them work productively and perform their role to the best of their ability.
Accessible ICT
The Microsoft Office 365 suite has a number of accessibility features to make sure your documents are accessible.
Digital.NSW have resources available to help you develop accessible digital products and inclusive services, including information on meeting WCAG standards and using assistive technology.
Accessible procurement
Under the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), all digital products should be accessible and inclusive for all users. This includes content, software infrastructure systems and/or services.
The NSW Government uses the Australian ICT procurement Standard, AS EN 301 549 (EN301) to clearly identify and include both the level of functional performance and accessibility requirements when procuring ICT.
Please visit Government accessibility standards for ICT for more information.
Accessibility: Technology supporting the workplace webinar
Topics covered in this webinar featuring speakers from Microsoft Australia and the Public Service Commission include accessibility solutions for:
- hearing
- learning
- mental health
- neurodiversity
- vision.
With audio descriptions
With open captions
Accessibility: Technology supporting the workplace webinar transcript