SHAPE 2017 TateExchange Book FINAL Draft - Flipbook - Page 33
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Using Audio and Technology for Access
Shelley Boden
I am passionate about access and about museums and galleries, and have
worked with disabled people to explore and audit exhibitions, websites and
apps for the last 25 years. It’s been a time of massive change and technology
has finally caught up with what users need – magnifiers and screen readers
are now built into smart phones and tablets, so we all have the potential to
view content in formats that suit our own needs. Technology should work for
blind and partially sighted (BPS) visitors in an easy, logical and enjoyable way.
Museums are developing a better understanding of the need for access, but
could still do more for the BPS audience – we just need to experiment some
more. Over the years I’ve tried out lots of ideas for increasing access – some
have been successful and others haven’t worked at all – but I’ve learnt a lot
from both and want to share the benefits of trying things out. You just need
an inclusive approach and understanding of what your BPS audience wants.
Technologically we are in the best position we have ever been to inspire BPS
visitors with text, touch and sound. Museums are more open to creative ways
of connecting people to their objects and stories. BPS audiences are creating
content and advising organisations of what does/not work for them.
So how can you use audio and technology to improve your project and to
reach your BPS visitors?
Listen to your audience
Understand what your BPS audience wants and who the audience is. Find
out what they like and what they want by talking to them. Link up with local
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