Improving computer access for blind users

Abstract

This paper discusses the development of applications dedicated to the blind users, with the help of reusable components. The methodology relies on component based development. For this purpose, braille-speech widgets adapted from classical widgets, have been studied, specified and implemented. The developed components can be used by developers to implement software for blind users. The contribution of this work in the field of assistive technology is valuable, because there are no existing tools that facilitate the creation of interfaces for the blind users, and it may considerably improve computer access for this category of users. © 2007 Springer.