It seems like just the other day we were all hailing cabs or calling “taxi hotlines” to get from point A to B. Now, we’re trusting in a future that allows artificial intelligence machines to drive us around safely without having to say a single word. It’s safe to say technology has changed the world at an unprecedented rate. The question then, does not become “should we adapt?” but instead, “how can we change with it?” Big tech giants like Meta, Amazon, and Tesla have made it exponentially easier to connect on all levels. Software developers can deploy apps with a quick turnaround, allowing organizations and research teams to adapt state-of-the-art software, and ultimately give users an experience that once seemed unimaginable. Recent studies show there are thousands of innovations, startups, and investors pouring into the tech industry, so why is it that this future remains unimaginable for the world’s largest minority group?
According to the World Health Organization, only 1 in 10 people with disabilities have access to assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative technology. This represents a major setback for the social and educational development of most disability groups. How exactly are technological innovators building a stable bridge between the disability community and assertive technology? When it comes to innovation, the answer can seem new and cryptic. However, awareness and implementation are both important and overlooked steps in the process.
Awareness and Research
The definition of research is entirely in its name. It’s taking information, revisiting it, and making sure that it stands the test of time. Similarly, awareness consists of disarming previous misconceptions, developing new insights, and taking proactive action towards an end goal.
Physical disabilities refer to the limitations that inhibit the physical functions of one or more limbs. Although heredity can be a key implication, physical disabilities can often develop through accident, injury, and post-surgery effects. A recent study showed that cerebral palsy is the most common childhood disability affecting movement and muscle coordination. Employers have also reported that Deafness or difficulty hearing, blindness, and amputations are among the most common in the workplace.
Intellectual disabilities are also very common. The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental disabilities (AAIDD) defines three essential elements for this disability type: Substantial limitations surrounding intellectual functioning, adaptive behavior, and onset during the developmental period. The ability to learn, reason, and solve problems can be hindered from as early as birth, up until the development period at age 22. Although Intellectual disabilities might not be as apparent as physical ones they are equally as significant to understand.
In 2016, a blind individual by the name of Guillermo Robles filed a lawsuit against Domino’s, one of the largest pizza chains in the country. Domino’s Pizza v. Robles was filed due to Guillermo’s inability to use his screen reading software to order on the mobile app and website. The court ruled “The online experience for Domino’s was incompatible with the assistive technology that blind people need to navigate or use an app” This resulted in a direct violation of the American Disability Act (ADA) and in 2018, thousands of lawsuits followed demanding organizations to be inclusive on their platforms. This set forth a major precedent for companies with large revenue streams and resources to adapt assistive technologies to ensure disability groups learn to navigate today’s digital transformations.
Actions toward understanding and analyzing the different types of disabilities have been met with varying efforts. Governments and educational institutions offer programs to assist in faster, more inclusive developmental cycles. Individualized Education Programs (IEP) work closely with parents to make informed decisions and curriculums that are best tailored for disabled individuals. Technological integration in the classroom also makes it easier to access resources that pave the way for a smooth transition into adulthood.
Ecuadorian Startup: Talov + Speakliz
As the world’s largest minority group, it is crucial to look at innovation efforts from a global perspective. The World Health Organization reports that very few countries have a national assistive technology policy or program. In fact, the American Disability Act in the United States does not enforce standard regulatory protocols around accessibility requirements, which makes it even harder for businesses to incorporate accessibility in their systems and develop assistive technology on a more consistent basis. Still, startups from all over the world are allocating their voices and resources toward breaking barriers.
Between 2017 and 2019 the Ecuadorian startup Talov launched two new subscription apps serving the hearing and visually impaired needs. One of the apps under the startup, Speakliz, is positioning itself as a leader in assistive technology. The app uses a powerful artificial intelligence tool that enables the deaf to communicate efficiently and fluidly with the rest of the world. It was launched as a direct response to the lack of awareness and funding for assistive technologies, especially in third-world countries. Talov and Speakliz are taking the next steps in the evolution of sign language.
Korean Startup: The Dot
Speakliz isn’t the only startup transforming the digital landscape. The Dot, a South Korean company is the first to develop a smartwatch for the visually impaired. The watch uses a Braille system to assist with everyday activities. It allows the disabled to set alarms, open maps, and access directions, read messages and receive notifications. The company’s vision is to connect innovation and technology on a global scale in order to improve communication and automation despite physical or developmental hindrances.
Call to Action
Experts agree that although there have been significant advances in technology for the disabled, Assistive technologies is still an undervalued market. According to the World Health Organization, The assistive products industry is currently limited and specialized, primarily serving high-income markets. There is a lack of state funding, nationwide service delivery systems, user-centered research and development, procurement systems, quality and safety standards, and context-appropriate product design.
Technology is glued to almost every business model. Up until recently, we reserved the technology title for the big players; Microsoft, Google, Apple, etc. but no matter what industry you are in, you will need to incorporate technology as a means of connecting and understanding your customers more effectively and efficiently. this is especially true for those who struggle with physical and developmental disabilities. Organizations are increasingly becoming user-centered thanks to technology, and this is a great way to help dissect the current challenges faced by the disability community. Identifying and sourcing talent with disabilities also voices the concerns and opinions of disability groups first-hand.
It’s impossible to meet the needs of every demand with firm solutions, but research and awareness are firm steppingstones. By taking long-term action and making assistive technology a requirement instead of a cool new feature, we are honoring the rights and aiding in the development of the largest minority group in the world.
