Project ideas
From ITCH
Here are some rough ideas for Accessibility Projects using FLOSS
Custom OATS, individual AT solutions using FLOSS.
A Open Collaborative Community or service provision that provides custom solutions to individual needs by developing suitable software. Software development to be minimised by customising existing software. Either uses existing FLOSS (e.g. GOK) or artifacts are released as FLOSS (e.g. PowerTalk). The idea is to help individuals whilst building a body of resources and contributing to the OATS and FLOSS communities at large. Could be part of the Ace Centre’s OATS project.
It is hoped that disabled folks will themselves get involved at all levels.
Challenge: version control will be difficult as each project could be unique.
Accessibility Service, ultra low cost home PC provision.
An Application Service Provider model for IT provision, primarily for disabled users at home. Uses Linux Terminal Services (LTSP) which uses minimal hardware which acts as a terminal. As used in schools to reduce costs, see schoolforge-UK, simplify admin,. LTSP protocols (espec. NX) can be very efficient over dialup. Allows very simple configuration and support of old, low spec PCs to users compared to current Windows services. Most support is then carried out centrally on the Application Servers.
Challenges. Lack of suitable AT software on Linux. LTSP raises issues with sound etc. No Internet connection means no computer for users.
Recycle computers for disabled using linux and other FLOSS.
As existing services but as FLOSS can use latest software versions without expensive license or hardware upgrades
Challenges: Linux Support of older hardware is poor. AT programs tend to be Windows only.
OSS Accessibility Interface.
A standard API to Linux and Desktops (and eventually Windows) to aid assistive technology products and automated testing by presenting programmatic access to application UI information. Facilities provided to collect information about UI, manipulated it and to be notified of events.
Perhaps extending X would allow working with LTSP as well which is probably important.
The Java Accessibility API main be a good starting point.
Challenge: a new standard to be adopted otherwise is useless.
Assistive Technology with Terminal Servers
To ensure that existing Accessibility and Assistive Technology tools and Linux Accessibility features work well with Terminal Servers such as LTSP. Assistive Technology with Terminal Servers.
Internet Radio for accessing internet audio and text content
A DABradio-like device that give access to all the audio content on the intranet and TTS of text such as books. Should be a simple appliance with speech interface and ideal for visually impared like the Pure radio but see this critique from a blind user.
Iexpect a web site/service will allow complex set up via an alternative interface while leaving the appliance simple to operate.
