Speak Out!
about inaccessible information and telecommunication technology


Personal computers, World Wide Websites, intranets, email, voicemail, cell phones, pagers, PDAs, fax machines, copy machines…all examples of information and telecommunication technology that can make you more productive, organized and plugged into your workplace and community, assuming you can actually use the technology, that is, which is not always the case for people with disabilities. If you have experienced the frustration that comes with being "so close but yet so far" from being able to use information or telecommunication technology, it may be time to redirect that frustration into action by speaking out about the problems you have encountered.

Businesses, non-profits, and governmental agencies take notice when customers complain about - or praise - their products. Given that, the most effective approach, typically, is to communicate your concerns directly to the organization that is delivering the inaccessible product or service. If, however, you cannot resolve the accessibility problem by dealing directly with the organization, you may need to pursue the legal remedies that are available to you.

This guide outlines a suggested approach for complaining about inaccessible information and telecommunication technology in the U.S., including information about your legal rights as a consumer. The guide is organized into the following sections, which step you through the processes of speaking out about inaccessible technology.

Note: On July 21st, 2004 from 1 - 3 PM ET, ITTATC hosted a nationwide gathering of technology consumers.

During this free audio conference call (with simultaneous webcast captioning), a panel of experts educated consumers on the federal laws that support the availability of accessible information and telecommunication technology.

Consumers were encouraged to take action during the hands-on portion of the event by working with the local host site facilitators and the experts to generate letters of complaint, which will be forwarded on to the appropriate organizations.

Click here to see the presentation materials and a transcript of the event.


people connected across a globe
Contents:



Nothing will change unless consumers demand accessible technology. Use this resource as a guide towards making a difference.

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