Workplace

A growing number of businesses are using new technologies to create more accessible work environments for employees with disabilities. Many of these technologies also have potential uses for consumers and workers without disabilities in Canada and broader global markets. For example, new easier to read cell phone displays use technologies that were originally developed to accommodate workers with low vision. Many other technologies originally developed as “assistive” technologies for people with disabilities have become common features of mainstream products.

Dis-IT’s workplace research examined the employment and new market implications of accessible information and communication technologies (ICT) in the workplace, including:

• How Canadian employers are using ICTs to create accessible work environments for employees with disabilities. The research looked at both hard technologies (i.e., assistive devices, telecommunications, computers, machinery, ergonomics, web accessibility) as well as soft technologies (i.e., flexible work times, job design, telecommuting, accommodation policies, recruitment strategies).
• The broader application and use of new innovative technologies for employees and consumers who do not have disabilities.

The links on the left side navigation bar provide more information about Dis-IT Workplace projects, researchers, partner organizations, products, and resources.