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While most aspects of web accessibility are technically easy to solve, providing accessible equivalents of data visualizations for blind users remains a challenging problem. Previous attempts at accessible equivalents focused on sonification of population data. This paper describes the creation of two prototypes for providing real-time weather information in a sonified format for blind users. A structured requirements gathering using interviews and surveys led to the development of the first sonification prototype using both keyboard and touchscreen (with a tactile overlay) access to weather data on a PC and Mac. This prototype was evaluated for usability by five blind users. Based on the feedback from the usability evaluation, a second prototype on a new platform (Android tablet computer) was created. We discuss the development and evaluation process for the sonification prototypes, with a detailed description of the usability evaluations performed in the field. The studies show that when working at the intersection of users with disabilities and new technologies, it's important to be flexible and adjust quickly to get the most out of field studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examines the usability of multi-touch tablet computer by adults with down syndrome for work-related tasks. It states that usability testing methodology was used during the investigation. Results show that adults with down syndrome can use multi-touch devices effectively for workplace-related tasks, formal computer training can influence the performance of the participant, and that password usability remains a challenge for Down syndrome patients.

The article presents a study on the usability and accessibility of job application web sites used by blind people. Participants include 16 blind users who are trying to apply online. Results showed the most common problems encountered by blind users while using such sites, which include confusing layout, searching for jobs link, and labeling problem. The study suggested the importance of ensuring the accessibility and usability of online applications sites for people with disabilities.

The article presents information on accessibility barriers for blind users who use screen readers like Window-Eyes and Access Systems to access websites. E-mail is an effective communication tool nowadays but websites can present certain barriers for blind people. To conduct the study, 15 blind users tested seven popular e-mail applications. The conclusion of the study was to improve e-mail applications including web-based interfaces, calendaring and the e-mail address book.

The article focuses on e-mail applications and evaluation of their usability by blind users. E-mail serves as an important tool for communication nowadays, but blind users using screen readers like System Acess to access websites can get barriers of accessibility and usability. To evaluate these problems, seven e-mail applications like Gmail and Yahoo Mail Classic were tested by 15 blind users. On basis of feedback, some changes to the testing process and questions were implemented.

An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses various reports within the issue on topics including the use of sound and display data on weather maps for blind users, the use of a two-player gaming system for arm rehabilitation, and universal accessibility and assistive technologies.