This week, Microsoft Chicago and our Retail Store team had the pleasure to participate in AccessChicago, hosted by the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD). AccessChicago brought in nearly 2000 attendees to meet with nearly 100 businesses, government organizations and nonprofits who serve and support people with disabilities. At Microsoft, we create and deliver technology that is accessible and functional for all people of all ages. And we will continue to push the boundaries of what technology can do to empower every person on the planet. The Microsoft team was showcasing the various Accessibility capabilities of Windows 10. To learn more about the built-in assistive technologies in Windows 10 visit the following how-to topics:
- Use Magnifier to see items on the screen
- Use text or visual alternative to sounds
- Use the On-Screen Keyboard (OSK) to type
- Using Keyboard shortcuts
- Hear text read aloud with Narrator
- Make your PC easier to use with Ease of Access Settings
- Save time with keyboard shortcuts
- Use Speech Recognition to control your PC
The program included educational sessions, activities and games, workshops on Health; Therapeutic Art; Cooking; Medicare/Social Security; sports including golf, judo and bowling; and special programming for children. There were resources on all kinds of technology and full size buses to demonstrate lifts and accessible transportation options. Best of all, we ran into some good friends, including Steve Luker (@1armedgeek) and Bill O’Connor and Ken Skord, both of AbilityLinks, a program of Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital.
Many thanks to Commissioner Karen Tamley (@karentamley) for bringing this important program to our attention. This was indeed a celebration of the community and a recognition of the 26th anniversary of the passage of the American Disabilities Act.
If you want to learn more about resources, especially about how technology can positively impact people with disabilities, here are a couple of suggestions:
- Sign up to a great Facebook group: Technology and Disabilities
- Follow @ITKANChicago on Twitter. This is a great organization which develops Professionals with Disabilities into passionate Technology leaders.
- Come to an ITKAN meeting! Great food and even better conversation.
Browse our Tweets below….check out the smiles and the positive interaction. Join our community!
