Guidelines for the Design of Computers and Information Processing Systems to Increase Their Access by Persons with Disabilities. Version 2.0

Many low-cost and no-cost modifications to computers would greatly increase the number of disabled individuals who could use standard computers without requiring custom modifications, and would increase the ability to attach special input and output systems. The purpose of the Guidelines is to provide an awareness of these access problems and a focal point for listing possible solutions. Section I provides an overview of disability types and the major impacts that each disability has on computer use. Section II contains a listing of problem areas and possible solutions, arranged by the part of the computer involved, including operating systems, keyboards, display screens, other output devices, mechanical design, and documentation. The Executive Summary contains a chart summarizing the problems, the populations affected, a relative priority, possible solution strategies, and the impact/benefit of such adaptations or modifications on/to the mass market for the computer. A summary listing of design ideas is presented in three categories: design features to increase the number of people who can use an unmodified computer; design features to facilitate the connection of special accessories or programs needed by more severely involved persons; and to design features to facilitate the use of computers as special devices, such as portable communication aids. (JDD)