AbilityNet case study - more energy efficent use of technology
view printable versionWhat is AbilityNet?
ICT Hub partner AbilityNet is a national charity helping thousands of people
with a wide range of disabling or limiting conditions, to access and release the
enabling power of computer technology, so enhancing their lives and enabling
them to take their rightful part in education, employment and leisure
activities.
AbilityNet’s vision is for a world where access to networks and
the knowledge economy is a fundamental human right; where disabled people can
freely access services, advance their independence and make connections.
Information and communications technology has revolutionised the way we work. It has also become an essential tool for people living with a disabling condition to have greater access to communication the work place, learning and leisure.
However sometimes there are issues that make technology inaccessible to people with disabilities. This is where AbilityNet comes in with its support and education services for people and organisations.
“AbilityNet really got me using my computer. I have very limited sight and Multiple Sclerosis. I could not, and now I can. I can do emails now, and it’s put me back in touch with life, put me in touch with the world. It’s a huge thing for me. Anyone else might say ‘so what?’, but it is really massive for me, I can!!”
Going for Greener Computing
AbilityNet has a strong reliance on computers for its work. As a national organisation with the aim to meet the need of individuals, time is spent travelling to homes, colleges or places of work to advise on accessibility.
As a forward thinking organisation AbilityNet realised that it had the capability to streamline its use of technology to reduce its carbon footprint, and to ensure its services were environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Working remotely using ICT
One of the great advantages of new technology is that it empowers us to work remotely. AbilityNet has embraced this new way of working.
Desktop applications have been commandeered to enable teams to communicate. Webcams and low cost Skype calls are used so team members can have remote meetings.
Monthly webinars from the Chief Executive have enabled greater communication on a regular basis. Saving on energy and also ensuring no one can interrupt!
Remote service delivery
AbilityNet also uses technology to deliver services such The Remote Assessment project. This is a service that allows AbilityNet to conduct detailed assessment of adjustments and recommend software solutions without having to make a physical visit.
An AbilityNet assessor will communicate with a service user using Skype, instant messaging software and web cams. They can also use remote access software that allows the assessor to make changes on a user’s computer and to get feedback on their individual preferences.
In addition it offers one-to-one remote training in software and other computers products. This is especially important for people who might not be able to access training in a conventional setting. It also ensures AbilityNet trainers do not waste carbon miles in providing their services.
AbilityNet makes full use of many available online educational tools. Users can have real time discussions with their tutors through chatrooms, and talk things through again using Skype.
“Through facilities such as Moodle we can provide on-line courses to
anyone in the country, therefore reducing the need to travel and supporting
individuals that cannot attend a face-to-face course.” Oliver Lewis
Accessibility Assessor/ Consultant
Skype
plug-in Talk and Write acts as a virtual whiteboard that allows tutor and
student to see each others’ cursors on their respective monitors and to edit
material on screen simultaneously and discuss what they are doing at the same
time.
These are all cost effective ways of reaching people all around the country, especially those in remote rural areas. It also means that AbilityNet does not increase carbon emissions with unnecessary travel.
“‘With the range of new technologies that have been provided to assess remotely, allows us to help and support more individuals within a day instead of having to travel the country.” Tracey Shawcross (accessibility Assessor/ Consultant)
What has been learnt?
For new media to be truly successful it requires a new way of thinking and a new way of working. It’s much easier to embrace the hardware and the software than it is to change working practices. Yet this is what AbilityNet has achieved.
AbilityNet has proved that it can provide services effectively to anyone from Aberdeen to Abingdon with a few clicks of the mouse. Its cost effective and energy efficient, and above all it allows AblityNet to ensure that people in even the most hard to reach parts of the country can benefit from its services.