Last reviewed: May 2024
Introduction
Let’s reimagine assistive technology (AT). It’s not just about helping disabled people; it’s about empowering every member of your team to excel. Think of AT as your secret weapon, a productivity booster available to all. We all rely on tools to streamline our workflow. Why limit that to shared calendars and spellcheckers – AT can also be a part of these solutions.
In this resource, we’ll show you how integrating AT into your workplace can improve productivity for everyone, not just those with disabilities. However, success depends on your organisation’s readiness. Without the right culture and support systems, introducing AT could backfire, leading to conflicts and lost productivity.
Unlocking productivity with assistive technology
Why limit AT to disabled employees when its benefits could be universal?
One example: text-to-speech software aiding dyslexic individuals, non-native English speakers, or those experiencing screen-induced eyestrain.
Or another example: ergonomic computer keyboards helping employees type faster and experience less strain.
By making AT accessible to all, you’re boosting productivity and removing stigmas associated with AT. It’s akin to predictive texting on smartphones – available to anyone, anytime, without singling out individuals.
Moreover, embracing AT across the board can save costs and streamline operations. A study by the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA) found that 78 per cent of organisations providing AT report improved productivity. Up to 50 per cent have noted a reduction in sickness absence. So, when building your case for AT adoption, consider its broader impact – it might exceed your expectations.
Taking the first steps
Remember though, you first have to lay the groundwork to enjoy the benefits.
Before diving into AT deployment for everyone:
- Cultivate an inclusive culture.
- Obtain buy-in from senior leadership.
- Establish robust structures for AT deployment.
Why are these steps crucial? Without an inclusive culture, employees may shy away from using AT due to fear of stigma. It’s not hard to imagine a situation where employees are worried about seeming lazy because they use productivity tools.
Leadership resistance can also hinder progress. Rallying support from top executives can quell doubts and pave the way for widespread adoption.
Finally, structures for deploying AT must be ready for widespread adoption. You need to investigate what you can provide so that you maintain compatibility and IT security, for example. And, employees need to know that they will get something that works, and quickly, when they ask for it.
The ‘Inclusive technology strategy’ section of this Toolkit has more resources on creating an inclusive culture.
Deploying assistive technology
Once you’ve laid the groundwork, it’s time to prepare for AT deployment:
- Define clear processes for requesting and accessing AT.
- Create an AT catalogue.
- Allocate budgets and designate responsible teams for procurement and delivery.
By ironing out these details beforehand, you ensure a smooth rollout of AT as a productivity enhancer.
Assistive technology catalogues
Consider using assistive technology catalogues to streamline AT deployment. These catalogs list AT tools compatible with your systems and security protocols, facilitating knowledge sharing and user support.
This is an important step for getting it right. Without an AT catalogue, you run the risk of delays, IT security issues, difficulties with compatibility – and ultimately, lost productivity.
For more insights, see our resource on assistive technology catalogues.
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