Goals of this Project:

The goals of this project are to promote accessibility for persons with disabilities in One-Stop
service centers and to better utilize employment supports offered in the centers.

Accessibility Issues:

Decisions about assistive technology products for accessible workstations were made based on
products most frequently used by RSA consumers. Some of the choices made will need to be
changed or modified at each individual site. Basic products include:

1. power adjustable desk

2. ergonomic, fully adjustable chair

3. fast pc with 2x memory as a typical workstation pc in order to run adaptive software

4. a minimum of 19” but prefer 21” monitor for persons with vision impairments

5. ergonomic keyboard

6. touch pad mouse in addition to a standard mouse

7. TTY telephone for persons who are deaf to make at least outgoing TTY phone calls (may
   require analog phone line or DID analog extension from existing phone system)

8. amplified telephone for persons who are hard of hearing to amplify and tone control sounds
   (requires analog phone line or DID analog extension from existing phone system)

9. ZoomText Level 2 screen magnification software for persons with low vision to see computer
   application products

10. JAWS screen reading software for persons who are blind to be able to use the computer

11. Dragon Naturally Speaking speech recognition software for persons who have physical access
    limitations to the computer to be able to “Talk and it types… “

12. All Windows based accessibility features were configured to be accessible using “hot keys”

13. CCTV (camera and monitor) for persons who are visually impaired to be able to access paper
    based print materials and fill out standard text size printed forms.

* It has been something of a pervasive problem that technology that is useful and accessible for
some persons are a functional barrier to others. Issues such as whether to use a standard
keyboard which is preferred by most JAWS and ZoomText users or an ergonomic keyboard, which
is preferred by most individuals who have repetitive stress conditions are being continually
worked out on an as needed basis. It is recommended that whenever possible, ergonomic
workstations should be separated from workstations for the Blind or vision impaired.
* * It should be noted that consumers using the adaptive workstations are expected to be
knowledgeable in the use of their Assistive Technology products unless other arrangements for
such training have been arranged. Local staff training provided by RSA for technical assistance
will be limited to basic troubleshooting, turning software on or off, knowing how to recognize
potential user of products who may not be aware of available products, knowing where to find
cheat sheets for adaptive software and knowing they may need to “re-boot” the computer if
necessary.
* * * After the workstation is in place it will be the responsibility of the One-Stop site to maintain
and upgrade the hardware/software products and continue staff training. The following is a
summary of set up tips, maintenance tips and resources for technical assistance for current and
future reference. A resource list of Assistive Technology Specialists who can provide technical
assistance (probably for a fee) will also be provided.

PH = Physical Access

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1. Fully Adjustable Ergonomic Chair (approximate cost: $600) :
   Seating is a critical element for many persons with physical access limitations. Ergonomic
   chairs ordered for One-Stop and RSA resource rooms have primary adjustments for seat base
   height, back height, armrest height, armrest width and a few other choice adjustments. These
   chairs will be labeled with the Accessibility symbol and language to say that priority seating at the
   workstation is for persons with a disability who needs the seating supports at that workstation.

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2. Power Adjustable Table (approximate cost: $1000 – $1300) :
   Work surface height is a critical component to the management of repetitive stress conditions,
   other upper extremity conditions and physical accessibility for wheelchair and scooter users. Work
   surface and typing surface height also impact typing speed and productivity. Some tables provided
   to One-Stop sites have a display of the actual height of the table. Tables should be labeled so that
   users can easily find and access the power switch to raise or lower the table. Wires should be long
   enough not to be pulled or stretched during changes in table heights.

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3. Sticky Keys Utility Program accessible through “hot keys” (approximate cost: free) :
   “Sticky Keys” is available for all operating systems and is found in the Control Panel under
   “Accessibility Options”. Users should be able to press the shift key 5 times in quick succession to turn
   Sticky Keys on or off. Control Panel configurations for “Sticky Keys” will be specified on the
   attachment called, “Recommended Control Panel Configurations for the One-Stops”.
   The “Sticky Key” program tells the computer to hold the shift key, or any other modifier key down for one
   keystroke after it is pressed. It enables a one-handed typist to depress 2 or more keys sequentially instead of at the
   same time. It saves muscle strain for persons with repetitive stress syndromes. Sticky Keys also saves keystrokes when
   typing capital letters as it automatically un-shifts after a single following letter is pressed.

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4. Ergonomic “WAVE” style Keyboard (approximate cost: $50 - $120) :
   Most sites have made a “wave” style ergonomic keyboard available, or received one as part of
   an RSA grant. This keyboard is the shape of the Microsoft “Natural Keyboard”. Unfortunately, many
   persons who are blind or vision impaired have a difficult time using this keyboard. It may be wise to
   offer this feature on a different work station than the one supporting the blindness
   software/hardware.

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5. Dragon Naturally Speaking (some sites only) (approximate cost: $140 - $740) :
   Some sites have received Dragon Naturally Speaking Preferred ($140) and some sites received
   Dragon Naturally Speaking Professional ($740). In most cases, this product is unusable in a busy,
   public, noisy area, however, it is excellent to have available for persons to try at quiet times of the
   day. A custom voice file will need to be created and saved by the user to utilize this software.

D/HoH = Deaf and Hard of Hearing

1. TTY Telephone (approximate cost: $300)

   CONSIDERATIONS:

   1. Published TTY Phone Number: Any site that has a published voice phone number
      should also have a published TTY phone number. This TTY is typically NOT the resource room TTY

   2. Resource Room TTY: Two decisions need to be made regarding TTY availability in the
      resource room: 1. should it have a direct incoming phone number? 2. which type of TTY should be
      available? Most sites offer the same features for the TTY as users have for the public access phone
      bank. Some sites allow incoming TTY calls for clients because telephone access with employers is
      extra difficult for TTY users. Signage should explain if, a) a number needs to be pressed for an
      outside line b) where and what type of TTY is available and c) the incoming phone number, if allowed.
      

   OPTI ONS FOR TYPES OF TTY’s:
   “coupler” style TTY with standard phone:	“Direct Connect” TTY	“NexTalk” software based TTY
   Advantages: 1. uses standard phones – analog or digital 2. the phone connection is made quickly (however, the handset must be quickly and accurately positioned on the TTY couplers) 3. phone transfers are standard as for all phones on system if needed Disadvantages: 1. very sensitive to environmental noises 2. phone receiver must be positioned very accurately 3. does not support text messaging if phone is not answered 4. special thermal paper must be used to print text	Advantages: 1. uses standard phones – analog or digital 2. the phone connection is made quickly (however, the handset must be quickly and accurately positioned on the TTY couplers) 3. phone transfers are standard as for all phones on system if needed Disadvantages: 1. very sensitive to environmental noises 2. phone receiver must be positioned very accurately 3. does not support text messaging if phone is not answered 4. special thermal paper must be used to print text	Advantages: 1. supports text messaging if the TTY is not answered (a very big advantage) 2. can automatically send an initial outgoing message to save stress and energy when answering calls 3. numerous ergonomic supports may be configured into the computer system 4. has extensive options for personal phone directories 5. uses standard pc printer for printing conversations Disadvantages: 1. requires analog line and/or analog extension through the phone system to use the proprietary 56k modem 2. requires learning to use the software 3. the initial connection of each call is slower than with standard TTY machines 4. call transfers are possible but user must learn how to transfer calls utilizing analog phone plugged into the TTY compatible modem – NA for Resource Room sites

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2. Hearing Aid Compatible/ Amplified/ Tone control Phone (approximate cost: $110) :
   The grant has provided the Ameriphone Dialogue JV-35 phone for some sites that have analog
   phone lines. It may be plugged into the back of the modem. Features include: volume AND tone
   control, input jack for hearing aid loop devices, large, high contrast buttons with Braille labels, etc.

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3. Video Relay:
   A grant from RSA with COPD in Tucson will be providing Video Relay interpreting equipment.
   Please contact Community Outreach Program for Deaf at 520-792-1906 for information.
   http://www.azstarnet.com/~ jschmid/copd.html

B/ VI = Blind or Vision Impaired

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1. 21” monitor:
   Many persons who are legally blind or significantly vision impaired benefit using the 21”
   monitor.

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2. Custom ADA RESOURCE ROOM Display Scheme:
   When configuring the Accessible Resource Room computer/s, the following custom settings
   should be modified and saved under a common name such as ADA RESOURCE ROOM scheme. In
   general, all fonts are enlarged by 2 point sizes, made bold and the Horizontal Icon spacing widened.
   To do this, select each of the following items under Display/ Appearance Tab/ Advanced button/
   I Items: Active Title Bar, I con, Menu, Message Box and Tool Tips – raise to 12 or 14 font
   size and make bold; I con Spacing Horizontal – raise to 150; Desktop – select plain dark
   blue background with no wallpaper for better visual contrast

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3. High Contrast Display Settings: (free) ( left shift + left alt + print screen)
   Shortcut keys will be configured through the Accessibility Options in the Control Panel. This
   feature will turn all text white and all background colors black. This minimizes glare and excessive
   bright white from light colored backgrounds that may pose problems for some vision conditions.

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4. ZoomText Level 2: (approximate cost: $700)

   ZoomText level 2 is a screen magnification program from Ai Squared that can magnify the
   screen from 2x to 16x and read menus and some text areas on the screen. It is not a full screen
   reader as would be used by persons who are blind, although the voice will sound the same. Most
   ZoomText users favor using a standard scrolling mouse, although hot keys are available for most
   functions. * * ZoomText users will require full administrative access to the ZoomText folder in the
   set-up/configuration of the software. (Most sites configure the Resource Room PC for “Power User”

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5. JAWS:
   JAWS is a screen reading software program from Freedom Scientific for persons who are
   totally blind, or require screen reading for fatigue or efficient access to the computer. JAWS is a very
   picky program and updating JAWS is an IT support issue usually requiring technical assistance from
   an AT specialist. Please see www.freedomscientific.com for required Windows settings to configure
   JAWS.

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6. CCTV: (some sites only)
   In a new grant with RSA, some sites have or will receive a CCTV. This device is a camera that
   is typically mounted in line with a 17” or larger monitor to magnify printed material. Some devices
   may interface with the computer monitor to allow both the computer and the CCTV to utilize 1
   monitor. Some sites will have a removable camera that may be used in classroom training settings.

1. Staff knowledge and awareness: Staff should meet/greet persons with any disability with
   dignity and respect. Staff should be prepared to listen to the needs of the consumer and feel
   comfortable asking appropriate questions to help direct the One-Stop user to appropriate services
   and available accommodations. Training can help to support disability awareness and specific
   accommodation resources but management support and peer networking is critical to promote
   positive attitudes toward persons with disabilities.

2. Architectural Accessibility: Many architectural features have associated standards that reflect
   specific heights, widths, slopes and other tangible building practices for SAFE ACCESSIBILITY.
   Primary areas to address are:

   parking areas and ramps entry doors / approach bathrooms counter/ greeting areas

   training rooms meeting rooms accessible placement of signs access to Goods and Services

   * It is recommended that sites consider the purchase of an Architectural Accessibility Survey (Survey costs = $300-$500 depending on distance to travel and time spent on site) Contact: Denise Thompson, Executive Director of the Arizona Office for Americans with Disabilities voice phone: 602-542-7828 TTY: 602-542-6686

    

3. Brochure/ Information Kiosks: should be at an accessible height for persons who can
   walk and persons who may use wheelchairs or scooters. Printed materials located in all
   brochure/information kiosks should be available in LARGE PRI NT, ELECTRONI C FORMAT, or
   possibly Braille. A CCTV, magnification device for print material, may assist with this
   accommodation (see section on Accommodations for persons who are Blind or Visually Impaired).

4. Multi-media equipment: VCR/TV/DVD presentations should be open captioned and video
   described when for the public by a federally funded program under Section 508 of the
   Rehabilitation Act. Contact Sue LeHew at slehew@azdes.gov for resources for video description
   for persons with vision impairment and captioning services for persons who are deaf or hard of
   hearing.

* Please Note: other Control Panel settings may be required by specific AT products -

1. ADMINISTRATIVE RIGHTS should allow access to the following Control Panel items:

   1. Accessibility Options: see Microsoft.com/enable and custom settings below

   2. Keyboard: configure a long Repeat Delay but a fast Repeat Rate

   3. Mouse: maximize the pointer size, select a mid range for pointer speed; trails to be available

   4. Display: configure a custom Display called, ADA Resource Room with larger, bolder fonts

2. Accessibility Options should be set to the following configurations:

High Contrast “hot keys” : it is a known problem that in Windows XP, shortcut keys (or “hot
keys”) may be set up to “jump” into the High Contrast setting of large white text on a black
background, but the same shortcut keys do not return the computer back to the primary custom
scheme. A work around has been successful of placing the custom scheme called, “ADA Resource Room”
as a shortcut on the desktop. Staff will need to be aware that they can select that scheme to return the
system to it’s normal “look”.

Keyboard Battle: persons who are blind or visually impaired typically touch type on standard
keyboards. Persons who have visual impairments sometimes prefer large print stickers on the
keys of the standard keyboard. For this reason it may be advisable to have a USB ERGO keyboard
available, with a very accessible USB connector for staff to access, to accommodate persons who have
physical limitations and require the ERGO keyboard.

Dueling Mice: ideally, a variety of pointing devices (“mice”) should be available for consumers.
Suggested types include: 1. standard scrolling mice 2. trackballs 3. touch pad mice (as a separate
mouse or integrated into an ergonomic keyboard – but if integrated into the keyboard, the side mounted
touch pad may be more advisable for universal usage)

Fixed Height Counter Top Workstations: while counter top style computer workstations are
economically efficient in a computer lab, they are huge barriers to persons with physical access
limitations. Considerations should be made as to where fixed height counter tops can be replaced by
adjustable height tables and/or mount fully articulating keyboard trays under some of the fixed height
counters.

Signage: signs are available in sets of 3 that identify accommodations for: 1. Persons who are
Blind/Visually Impaired 2. Persons who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing and 3. Persons who have
Physical Access Needs. The assistive technology referenced in the signs are not universally
available in all One-Stops, or RSA Resource Rooms. Individual segments of the signs are available
but it has become a bit of an awkward process to match the signage to the actual available
products. It is suggested that a lead team of persons be identified that can periodically test the
assistive technology software products to be sure that they work and that signage reflects what is
currently available.

Space: the following items represent space needs for assistive technology in the One-Stops:

• accessible computer workstation/s
  
• CCTV
  
• monitor to be available in training room to support mobile arm CCTV
  
• Library stand style kiosk for literature on disabilities and assistive technology
  
• TTY and amplified phone
  

Other: YOUR INPUT: