Accessibility through 3D virtual tours & 360 photography: helping people with disabilities
In a time when the negative aspects of technology often seem most discussed, it is easy to lose sight of what a hugely positive impact new innovations can have on everyday life. One of the huge benefits of 3D virtual tours is that they can help people with disabilities.
As of 2018, it is estimated there are around?13.9 million?disabled citizens living in the UK and although the vast majority of businesses, attractions and venues have greatly improved accessibility to their facilities for the disabled, visiting a new place can be an anxiety inducing experience. 3D virtual tours are being explored as a way to not only alleviate these issues but as a way of bringing new experiences to those who may not be fortunate enough to visit physically.
Using 3D Virtual Tours To Build Confidence
Although virtual reality, augmented reality and 3D scanning have existed in some form since the 1990’s, recent improvements and innovations have opened new avenues in how remarkably beneficial these technologies can be, particularly to the disabled community. A great example is the recently commissioned virtual tour of the Birmingham Children’s Hospital facilities. This was created to help the parents of children who have special needs, such as autism, who feel more comfortable with a set routine. The virtual tour empowers the parents to provide reassurance by allowing their children to see where they will be going and then planning their visit together.
3D virtual tour of OPEN in Norwich
This approach was also developed by the live music and events space: OPEN in Norwich, who worked with a local company to create a 3D virtual tour of their entire venue. The team at OPEN hope to use this technology to encourage a more inclusive atmosphere where disabled visitors can confidently enjoy the venue’s variety of events. The 3D virtual tour is an easy and convenient way to see what kind of disabled access is available prior to visiting, making it simple for disabled people in the local community to plan their visit accordingly.