Improving site accessibility through assistive technology

Table of contents

What is site accessibility?

Assistive technology

Why is accessibility important

Improving accessibility with technology

How can Focus Group help?

If you look back on business practices just a few years ago, accessibility was mostly considered an afterthought, an “if we have time” task that fell by the wayside. Today, accessibility is no longer just a nice-to-have extra it’s a necessity, especially in the leisure sector.

With more and more people attending events or visiting venues, it’s essential to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their specific needs, can enjoy and participate in these experiences. This is why assistive technology has become an essential tool for the leisure sector, as it can improve site accessibility and make your venues more inclusive.

What is site accessibility?

You’d be forgiven for thinking accessibility revolves entirely around designing spaces for physical disabilities, for example having ramps for wheelchair users. Whilst that certainly is part of it, it's only the first step in creating a more accessible environment.

Accessibility refers to the design and provision of spaces, products, and services that are usable by everyone, including people with specific needs both physically and mentally. Whether it's a public venue, an event space, or an online platform, making spaces accessible means ensuring that anyone can fully participate. This includes addressing physical, sensory, and cognitive barriers.

How can assistive technology improve customer experience?

Nothing is more frustrating than attending an event where you’re considered an afterthought. An event that you’re passionate about but, because of a lack of accessibility, can only half engage with.

Assistive technology enhances accessibility by providing tools that support people with disabilities, enabling them to navigate spaces, communicate effectively, and access information seamlessly. Whether through mobile apps, interactive maps, or smart devices, here are a just few ways assistive technology can help improve customer experience:

• By offering alternative ways to consume information (e.g., speech-to-text, screen readers, subtitles)
• By improving physical access to venues (e.g., digital maps that highlight accessible paths, and wheelchair-friendly spaces)
• By enhancing communication through text-based systems, apps, and real-time messaging
• By providing tools for easier navigation within an event or venue (e.g., indoor navigation apps)

All of these features come together to create a more inclusive environment, ensuring all attendees feel valued and included.

Why is accessibility important in the leisure sector?

The leisure sector covers a wide variety of businesses including events, entertainment, recreation, tourism, etc. and all of them play a significant role in people’s social lives and well-being. This is why it’s so essential to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their physical or sensory capabilities, can enjoy these activities.

If you focus on the customer perspective, the importance of accessibility is pretty clear. An accessible environment reduces stress, increases comfort and leads to overall higher customer satisfaction. Accessibility tools are important as they tackle the problem we looked at earlier, with people only being able to ‘half-engage.’ Tools such as text-to-speech would allow individuals who are hearing impaired to fully engage with an experience that would otherwise be unavailable to them.

From a business perspective, accessibility is important not only because it boosts customer satisfaction but also allows companies to appeal to a wider audience, including those with disabilities and their families. It also helps boost the business's reputation as an inclusive, forward-thinking company. As more businesses in the leisure sector strive to be more inclusive for the reasons above, assistive technology is becoming an essential part of that transformation.

How can you use technology to improve accessibility at events and venues?

One of the key areas in the leisure sector that is constantly being improved by assistive technology is events and venues. From hosted event apps to screen readers, technology is constantly developing new tools to enhance accessibility. Let’s explore several ways to use these tools to improve inclusivity at events and venues.

Hosted event apps

Hosted event apps are one of the most prominent assistive tools. The app can be designed to include accessible floor plans and highlight key areas such as wide doors, step-free routes, and accessible toilets. These apps can also support screen readers for those with visual impairments, and feature text-to-speech capabilities to assist those with speech or mobility challenges. Cloud-based apps ensure scalability and can be updated in real-time, providing attendees with up-to-date information on accessibility features and event schedules.

Interactive accessible maps and digital signage

Interactive maps and digital signage can guide attendees to accessible areas such as low-sensory rooms, wheelchair ramps, elevators, and restrooms. These digital tools allow users to zoom in on specific areas, customise their routes, and find important details without assistance. Digital signage can also be programmed with accessibility features like larger fonts, high-contrast displays, or even audio descriptions, making navigation easier for all attendees.

Smart displays

Smart displays equipped with speech-to-text technology or subtitled content provide another layer of accessibility. For those who are deaf or hard of hearing, live subtitling of presentations and events can make all the difference. Many smart devices now come with this functionality built-in, and it can be easily integrated with third-party software to provide real-time subtitles on large screens, ensuring that attendees never miss a moment of the action.

Screen readers

For visually impaired attendees, screen readers can convert text, images, and other elements on screens into speech or braille output. Integrating platforms and apps with screen reader compatibility ensures that visually impaired users can independently navigate event schedules, venue information, and other essential resources. This simple addition makes a world of difference in terms of inclusivity.

Lifts and escalators

The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionising accessibility, particularly when it comes to lifts and escalators. IoT-connected lifts and escalators can communicate directly with attendees’ mobile devices, providing real-time information about availability, functionality, and even occupancy levels. This technology ensures that mobility-impaired attendees are informed about the best routes through the venue, helping them avoid long waits or non-functional equipment.

Venue WiFi

Reliable WiFi connectivity is essential for many accessibility features, from event apps to IoT devices and communication tools. A robust, well-supported WiFi network ensures that all attendees, including those relying on assistive technologies, can access the resources they need without interruption.

One recent example of the importance of venue wifi is Brighton and Hove Albion, who found that during a match day, their mobile and WiFi networks were being overwhelmed. Focus Group upgraded their WiFi infrastructure with a high-capacity solution that provided the capability to support 15,000 connections. Their next-level internet network allows both staff and stadium visitors to stay connected, even during a match day.

Reliable communication

Communication is a key aspect of accessibility and reliable mobile and IoT devices can support this need. Text-based Q&A sessions during presentations allow attendees to submit questions and interact with speakers in real-time without needing to speak aloud, benefiting those with speech impairments or social anxiety. Additionally, allowing attendees to message each other through event apps or mobile platforms supports networking and collaboration, especially for those with visual or communication challenges.

How can Focus Group help?

At Focus Group, we understand the importance of accessibility and how technology can transform the event experience for all attendees. We provide a range of IT solutions tailored to enhance accessibility at events and venues. From cloud-based event apps to IoT-enabled devices and reliable WiFi solutions, we can help you create an inclusive environment that meets the needs of every visitor.

Our team can work with you to assess your current setup, recommend technology improvements, and ensure that your business offers next-level customer satisfaction and inclusivity.