The sound and feel of computing without sight

If you can't see what's on your computer screen, you can hear, or even feel the content.

Screen readers are programs that interpret what appears on screen and send that data to a speaker or voice synthesiser which then reads that text out loud. Navigation of the screen is done using keyboard and cursor keys.

The most widely used program is Jaws for Windows, though there are many others, including Hal and Window Eyes.

Many people use a combination. Dean uses Hal and Jaws - he finds Hal easier to use, but Jaws is better in some applications.

Jonathan uses a combination of Jaws and Window Eyes, in conjunction with a Braille screen reader.

The Braille device sits under the keyboard and converts on-screen text to a line-by-line Braille display. Photos and detailed descriptions of Braille display are available on the DeafBlind site.

Another option is the BrailleNote family of Braille keyboards developed locally by Pulse Data.

Because she has some sight, Helena uses the screen magnification software ZoomText.

But as her sight has deteriorated, she is using Jaws speech software more often. Though she is still getting to grips with the technology, she has found that using the screen reader has had her surf more because using the magnification is very tiring.

Screen readers take some getting used to. It is possible for the sighted to get a taste of what it is like by visiting the WebAIM simulator. It does take a while to load, but is really worth it.

Many sites are available to spell out what is needed to make sites accessible to all.

The University of Maine has a clear and simple summary of accessibility issues and top design tips.

You can even check if your design is disability-friendly by sending a page, or an entire site, through Bobby WorldWide.

Jaws for Windows

Hal Screen Reader

Window-Eyes

Refreshable Braille Displays

PulseData BrailleNote

WebAIM simulator

Creating Accessible Websites

Bobby WorldWide