CMPT 498 / 898 Accessible Computing

Week 03 Day 2

User Needs Summary

[ISO/IEC TR 29138-1 Information Technology - Accessibility Considerations for People with Disabilities - Part 1: User Needs Summary, available from: ISO/IEC JTC 1 / SWG- Accessibility Document N339, 2008-06-19]

The User Needs Summary is:

[According to:  Introduction to the User Needs Summary ISO/IEC JTC 1 / SWG- Accessibility (Document N209, 2006-09-22)]

High Level Structure of USER Needs

The following groupings and italicized notes are mine, the numbers come from the User Needs Survey:

Perceptions [inputs to the USER?]

1. The ability to perceive visual information
2. The ability to perceive auditory information

[what about perceiving tactile information ?]


3. The ability to perceive the existence and location of actionable components:
4. The ability to perceive the status of controls and indicators:
5. The ability to perceive feedback from operations:

Actions [outputs from the USER?]

6. The ability to be able to invoke and carry out all actions including maintenance and setup

[inputting data is just seen as a component of carrying out an action]

7. The ability to complete actions and tasks within the time allowed
8. The ability not to accidentally activate actions
9. The ability to recover from errors
15. The ability to use their AT to control the product

Internals [not really processing by the USER! More like combinations of outputs and inputs?]

12. The ability to be able to efficiently operate product [see also 7]
13. The ability to understand how to use product (including discovery and activation of any access features needed)
14. The ability to understand the output or displayed  material (even after they perceive it accurately)

Miscelaneous Needs

10. To have equivalent security and privacy
11. Not to have using systems cause health risks (e.g. seizure, etc.)
16. Additional Cross Cutting Issues

NOTES:

A. Attempts to provide structure to these 16 categories don't work well because they were developed bottom-up (by collecting individual needs) rather than top down (based on some theoretical set of categories). There have been many different structures before this one. Likewise this document has a long history that includes:
B. Some of these 16 categories exist at a more detailed level than others (e.g. categories 1 and 2 are modality specific), while some potential categories are absent (there is no category dealing with perceiving tactile information. This is a further result of the bottom-up development.

C. The focus is on needs that should be met by accessible systems - thus user needs for processing  are worded as needs that are to be aided by the system, which invovle user needs for combinations of inputs and outputs.

D. This is version 1.0 because it is relatively stable and relatively complete, but is expected to be subject to changes including additions.

Detailed USER Needs

[Taken from the User Needs Summary without many comments]


1. The ability to perceive visual information:

Some users need ...
1.    visual information also available in auditory mode
2.    visual information also available in tactile mode
3.    sufficient brightness for visually presented information
4.    any information (other than the color itself) that is presented through color to be also presented in another way that does not rely on color
5.    to change the colors of information
6.    text readable with reduced visual acuity  
7.    information within viewable range of those of short stature or seated in wheelchairs
8.    to avoid reflective glare
9.    to avoid glare from excessive brightness
10.    to pause, and re-play information presented using audio, video, or animation
11.    to perceive foreground visual information in the presence of background
12.    to see and hear text simultaneously




2. The ability to perceive auditory information:

Some users need ...
1.    auditory information to be also available in visual mode
2.    auditory information to be also available in tactile mode
3.    to adjust the volume to a suitable level
4.    auditory events, alerts etc, to be multi-frequency
5.    when vibration is used as a substitute for different auditory events, then some need vibration to have different vibration patterns (rather than vibration frequency or strength)
6.    multi-channel auditory information available in monaural form
7.    to pause, and re-play audio information
8.    to perceive foreground audio information in the presence of background (including ambient noise)
9.    to adjust the audio characteristics (e.g. pitch, balance)


3. The ability to perceive the existence and location of actionable components:

Some users need ...
1.    to locate and identify all keys and controls via non-visual means without activating them
2.    to have non-actionable elements (logos, decorative details) not look or feel like buttons or controls
3.    sufficient landmarks and cues to be able to quickly re-find all keys and controls during use
4.    controls that visually contrast with their surroundings
5.    controls to be in places where they can be easily found with low vision and with no sight
6.    controls within viewable range of people of short stature or seated in wheelchairs
7.    focus and pointing indicators that are visible with low vision
8.    information describing the layout of the operational parts
9.    information and layout of controls to be consistent



4. The ability to perceive the status of controls and indicators:

Some users need ...
1.    a non-visual equivalent to any visual indicators or operational cues, designed (power light) or intrinsic (e.g. visual movements)
2.    a non-audio indicator for any auditory indicators or operational cues, designed (e.g. beeps, lights) or intrinsic (e.g. machine sounds, visual movements)
3.    a non-tactile alternative to any subtle tactile feedback
4.    alternatives that are different, when different signals are used (e.g. diferent ring tones, or tactile or visual indicators)
5.    visual indicators (e.g. LEDs, on screen indicators, mouse cursors) that are visible with low vision
6.    controls and indicators that are perceivable without relying on color
7.    sufficient quality (e.g. volume, direction, clarity, frequency) for audio cues
8.    tactile indicators (i.e. for those who need indicator to be both non-visual and non-auditory) 9.    information within viewable range of people of short stature or seated in wheelchairs


5. The ability to perceive feedback from operations:

Some users need ...
1.    feedback to be audio or tactile (i.e. non-visual)
2.    feedback to be tactile (i.e. both non-visual and non-auditory)
3.    a visual or auditory alternative to any subtle tactile feedback
4.    alternatives that are different, when different signals are used (e.g. diferent ring tones, or tactile or visual indicators)
5.    visual feedback that is obvious with low vision
6.    feedback that is perceivable without relying on color
7.    to adjust the colors to make things easier ro read
8.    sufficient quality (e.g. volume, direction, clarity, frequency) for audio feedback
9.    audio feedback that does not require tone differentiation
10.    visual or tactile feedback to occur at the same location as the control
11.    clear feedback of connector engagement (e.g. power cord, PCI card, USB connector, etc.)
12.    feedback to be predictable


6. The ability to be able to invoke and carry out all actions including maintenance and setup

Some users need ...
1.    to operate all functionality using only tactilely discernable controls coupled with non-visual feedback
2.    to access all functionality without having to use touch or very light touch activated controls
3.    to fully operate the product without requiring a pointing device
4.    to access all computer software functionality from the keyboard (or keyboard emulator) with only visual feedback
5.    an alternative method to operate any speech controlled functions
6.    a method to fully operate product that does not require simultaneous actions
7.    a method to fully operate product that does not require much force
8.    a method to fully operate product that does not require much continuous force
9.    a method to fully operate product that does not require much stamina, (includes sustained or repeated activity without sufficient rest)
10.    a method to fully operate product that does not require much reach,  (weakness,, stature or wheelchair)
11.    a method to fully operate product that does not require tight grasping
12.    a method to fully operate product that does not require pinching
13.    a method to fully operate product that does not require twisting of the wrist
14.    a method to fully operate product that does not require direct body contact
15.    a method to fully operate product that does not require much accuracy of movement
16.    to adjust the speed and acceleration of input devices
17.    to operate a product with only a left or only a right hand
18.    to operate a product without use of hands
19.    to operate a product using only speech
20.    to use alternatives to biometric means of identification
21.    to use alternative modalities to text imput
22.    to have similar patterns of activation for similar actions
23.    a visual indication of keyboard shortcuts



7. The ability to complete actions and tasks within the time allowed

Some users need ...
1.    much more time to read dsplayed information
2.    much more time to complete actions - and no feeling of time pressure
3.    information necessary to plan their actions in advance
4.    the ability to avoid visual or auditory distractions that prevent focusing on a task



8. The ability not to accidentally activate actions

Some users need ...
1.    products and controls designed so they can be explored without activation, either tactilely or through keyboard navigation
2.    to operate controls with tremor or spasmodic movements without inadvertent entries
3.    controls that are not activates by a slight touch or when they receive keyboard focus

9. The ability to recover from errors

Some users need ...
1.    notification when the product detects errors made by the user
2.    unambiguous guidance on what to do in the event of a reported error
3.    a means (e.g. a mechanism) to go back and undo the last thing(s) they did
4.    to reset (to initial condition)


10. To have equivalent security and privacy

Some users need ...
1.    private listening capability when using audio alternatives to visual information in public places
2.    protection of the privacy of their information even if they are not able to do the “expected” things to protect it themselves
3.    security of their information even if they are not able to do the “expected” things to protect it themselves

11. Not to have using systems cause health risks (e.g. seizure, etc.)

Some users need ...
1.    products where hazards are obvious and easy to avoid, and difficult to trigger
2.    products that do not rely on specific senses or fine movement to avoid injury
3.    to use products safely without seeing hazards or warnings
4.    to use products safely without hearing hazard warnings
5.    to avoid visual patterns that cause them to have seizures
6.    to avoid auditory patterns that cause them to have seizures
7.    products that do not give off electromagnetic radiation that they are allergic to
8.    products that do not give off chemicals that they are allergic to


12. The ability to be able to efficiently operate product

Some users need ...
1.    alternate modes of operation which are effective given the time constraints of the task
2.    keyboard navigation that follows a meaningful sequence through form controls
3.    to increase the rate of audio alternatives (unless there are minimal audio alternatives)
4.    system level accessibility preference settings that apply across applications
5.    to have applications  not override or defeat built-in accessibility features
6.    accessibility preference settings preserved unless explicitly changed
7.    preference settings to change immediately preferably without requiring system reboot
8.    to save and restore individual preference settings
9.    accessibility functions that can be returned to an initial state individually or together after every user
10.    hardcopy documents to be usable with one hand or mouthstick
11.    structure when navigating long audio material
12.    consistent and predictable user interfaces



13. The ability to understand how to use product (including discovery and activation of any access features needed)

Some users need ...
1.    to get overview and orient themselves to product and functions/parts without relying on visual presentation or markings on product
2.    wording, symbols, and indicators used on products that is as easy to understand as possible given the device and task
3.    products or services to use standard conventions, words and symbols for their culture (cross -cultural if possible)
4.    clear and easy activation mechanisms for any access features
5.    navigation that supports different thinking styles
6.    to understand product if they have trouble thinking hierarchically
7.    any text read aloud to them
8.    steps for operation minimized and clearly described
9.    interfaces that limit the memorization required of the user to operate them successfully
10.    cues to assist them in multi-step operations
11.    simple interfaces that only require them to deal with the controls they need. (advanced or optional controls removed in some fashion)
12.    each function on its own key rather than having keys change their functions but look/feel the same
13.    to know that a product is usable by them and how to set it up to work for them
14.     information presented in an alternative to text based representation

14. The ability to understand the output or displayed  material (even after they perceive it accurately)

Some users need ...
1.    textual material to be worded as clearly and simply as possible
2.    text, illustrations and diagrams in spoken form
3.    not to have device noise or regular audio output interfere with ability to understand accessib
4.    visual information generated by access features (such as captions) not occur simultaneously with other visual information they must view
5.    Image resolution and speed be sufficient to understand any sign language presented
visual information to be presented auditorially
6.    to slow audio, video, or animated informaiton down slightly
7.    to replay, pause, change speed in order to understand informaiton
8.    to replay auditory information. 
9.    enlargable text wordwrap so that it stays on screen and is understandable
10.    Feedback using pictures or symbols
11.    to silence audio output
12.    information presented as an alternative to text
13.    textual information presented using figures of speech (such as abbreviations, idioms, metaphors, etc.) is also presented in a way that does not require understanding of those figures of speech
14.    information to be available regarding the meaning associated with colors and symbols



15. The ability to use their AT to control the product

Some users need ...
1.    that the product not to interfere with the AT
2.    to use AT with other devices (e.g. Alternate display, amplifiers, or alternate controls)
3.    full and efficient functional control of a product available using their AT, including pass-through of user feedback and notifications such as error messages
4.    an AT available that will work with new technologies, at the time of release of the new technology

16. Additional Cross Cutting Issues

Some users need ...
1.    new technologies to be accessible when they are released
2.    Tto access the controls that allow them to turn on and adjust the built in accessibility features
3.    an accessible path and the ability to position ones self within reach of installed products
4.    timely access to trained customer service personnel (e.g. Help Desk)
5.    accessible training and support materials
6.    electronic access to copyrighted and otherwise protected material
7.    the product to be usable by those with multiple disabilities
8.    a means to provide feedback about improvements to accessibility to meet their particular needs
9.    product accessibility information to be disseminated to distributors, retailers, installers, system integrators, customer organizations, and people with disabilities
10.    to have their accessibility functions available at all times, without disruption