Informed decision making on assistive technology workplace accommodations for people with visual impairments

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Occupational Science
• Human Factors Engineering

Background:

• Underemployment of individuals with visual impairments is a significant global workforce issue.
• A key barrier to employment is the lack of informed decision-making regarding assistive technology (AT) as a workplace accommodation.
• Effective AT selection is vital for successful employment outcomes for people with vision impairments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a structured, five-step process for selecting appropriate AT for workplace accommodations for individuals with visual impairments.
• To provide practical guidance for informed AT decision-making in employment contexts.
• To offer resources for evaluating and implementing effective AT solutions.

Main Methods:

• Examination of case studies from the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) database involving individuals with vision impairments.
• Description of the five-step AT selection process developed by JAN.
• Compilation of resources for AT evaluation and implementation.

Main Results:

• The study details a systematic approach to choosing AT, emphasizing informed decision-making.
• Analysis of JAN cases highlights the practical application of AT in workplace accommodations.
• Resources are provided to support the effective selection and use of AT.

Conclusions:

• An informed, systematic approach to selecting assistive technology significantly enhances employment opportunities for individuals with visual impairments.
• The JAN five-step process offers a valuable framework for workplace accommodations.
• Effective AT implementation is key to overcoming employment barriers for this population.