Problems at checkouts

Hello there!  I'm Christian Robicheau, assistant editor at www.sterlingcreations.ca.
Today, it's another gorgeous October weekend shaping up and I hope that everyone is getting ready to celebrate another great weekend.
I am pleased to present you with an editorial by our president Donna J. Jodhan and I hope you find it interesting.
Here's wishing you a great weekend.

 

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Problems at check outs
By Donna J. Jodhan
 
It appears that there is an unstoppable trend towards stores using check out systems that are of the touch screen variety.  All well and good for those who can use it but for someone with a sight problem; the blind and sight impaired, this is a problem.  It is a problem because as of now, blind and sight impaired persons are unable to master the touch screen technology.  If they are unable to use a touch screen, then they are exposed to issues of privacy and confidentiality. 
 
If they go into a store that uses touch screen technology as their point of sale method, then blind and sighted persons would need to depend on sighted assistance to help them input their banking details.  In many cases, store personnel are very willing to help and can be trusted but this is not really the point.  Touch screen technology is a hindrance to the confidentiality and privacy of information for blind and sight impaired persons and it is probably time for the blind and sight impaired community to make their concerns known to the appropriate quarters.
 
Touch screen technology at check outs is not only affecting those with sight problems, it is also affecting those who are afflicted with dexterity problems.  Persons with certain types of learning difficulties, and those who have difficulty reading screens with small print.  In short, more than just a few.  This problem is only going to become more acute with time because of a rapidly aging population and this may be the time for manufacturers to start taking note.  Or, start taking action.

 

I'm Donna J. Jodhan wishing you a terrific day and weekend.
To reach me, please send an email to info@sterlingcreations.ca and I would be delighted to send you an electronic copy of our latest newsletter.
 
Here is a complete list of where you can view Donna's blogs and editorials.
Donna Jodhan!  Advocating accessibility for all
http://www.donnajodhan.blogspot.com 
a weekly feature on important answers to consumers concerns
http://www.sterlingcreations.com/businessdesk.htm
Weekly blogs for language professionals and accessibility consultants
http://www.sterlingcreationsca.blogspot.com
A monthly editorial on issues on diversity
http://www.diversityintheworkplace.ca