How to Make Technology Work: A Study of Best Practices in United States Electronic and Information Technology Companies

Abstract

This article documents the best practices in electronic and information technology (E&IT) companies to make their goods and services accessible to people with disabilities. The results of structured interviews were analyzed and grouped by themes. The research presents discrete best practices that emerged including the need for accessibility champions, the importance of valuing disability, and the value in transforming the company. A case study of AOL's success is included along with recommendations for people with disabilities who wish to advocate for more accessibility to E&IT products. Contributing to the bottom line was found to be the primary motivator for companies to include and maintain accessibility. This article is an abbreviation of the World Institute on Disability publication How to Create Disability Access to Technology