AAACT showcases innovative accessibility tools at SSC’s Innovation Fair

As we reflect on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we encourage all public servants to educate themselves about different types of workplace barriers that people may face and to implement inclusive practices into our work. Shared Services Canada’s Accessibility, Accommodation and Adaptive Computer Technology (AAACT) program is here to help. AAACT offers a wide range of alternative approaches, tools, services, resources and adaptive computer technologies for public servants with disabilities or injuries.

At SSC’s recent Innovation Fair, AAACT hosted a booth where over 1,500 public servants experienced the innovative technologies and services that it offers. The feedback it received from the attendees was overwhelmingly positive!?

Its main message resonated strongly: AAACT is dedicated to removing barriers, and it believes anyone can play a part in this important mission.

Here are some of the tools that sparked many questions:?

• Tap Strap 2: This all-in-one wearable keyboard, mouse and air-gesture controller drew significant attention, with many eager to learn how it can enhance user experience. AAACT is currently exploring the tool to better understand its benefits.?
• Keyboards and ergonomic mice: The large array of alternative keyboards and ergonomic devices sparked numerous inquiries, emphasizing the need for accessible technology solutions. With AAACT, you can explore devices to fit your needs.?
• 3D-printed objects: AAACT is currently exploring 3D printed devices to bridge many issues that persons with disabilities face. 3D printing makes it easier, faster and cheaper to customize each device to its user.

While many attendees showed interest in the various technologies, AAACT also received many questions about accessibility testing. AAACT offers accessibility standards conformance testing and reporting, as well as user testing with persons with disabilities.

Additionally, AAACT provides training to help organizations become self-sufficient in their own accessibility testing and quality assurance for information communications technology. If you have questions about AAACT’s testing services and whether it can help you, email [email protected].

The AAACT team thanks everyone who visited its booth. They look forward to continuing the conversation and working together to remove barriers!