Accessibility from scratch: How an open focus contributes to inclusive design

Abstract

When attempting to solve the riddle of the planets, Pythagoras the mathematician applied his 'philosophy of numbers' to the available information on the dynamics of the solar system. Having also studied music as science, he called the unity he found the Hannony of the Spheres, believing that the divine could hear a hum created by the perfect harmonies in the oscillations caused by celestial bodies. This paper concerns the provision of music for people who are blind or otherwise print impaired. Our experience has shown that by considering accessibility from scratch we can establish some fundamental harmonies which can be achieved by taking a more 'openfocus' to inclusive design. No divine hum perhaps, but we can help people to whistle a good tune. © Springer-Verlag 2004.