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Digital Information Review workshop

Inclusive Journeys

Stylized transit map featuring five bold-colored transit lines intersecting across a simplified city grid. Each line is labeled with a color and a route name: The Red Line (Downtown Loop) runs horizontally from the left (West Station) to the right (Central Market), stopping at key stations including Tech Hub, Museum District, and Union Square, located in the heart of the map. The Blue Line (Riverside Express) curves diagonally from the bottom left (Harbor Point) to the upper right (University Heights), passing through Library Station, Civic Centre, and Medical Campus. The Green Line (Parkline Local) arches from the upper left corner (Botanic Gardens) through City Zoo, East Park, and terminates at Community Hall near the lower center. The Yellow Line (Airport Connector) runs vertically from North Hills Terminal at the top, stopping at Midtown Transfer (central hub), then continuing southward to International Airport Station. The Purple Line (Tech Ridge Route) branches from Innovation Park in the upper right, moves west through StartUp Lane, intersects the Red Line at Union Square, and ends at Old Town Station in the lower left. Transfer stations are marked with overlapping colored circles, especially prominent at Union Square, where four lines converge. The map background shows minimal street detail but includes stylized icons such as a plane for the airport, a book for the library, and a tree for the park. The map is not to scale and emphasizes simplicity, clarity, and connectivity rather than geographic precision.

Two Digital Apps Reviewed - VoiceVista and Moovit

Presented by David from Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd. for the CCB BC Yukon Division
https://gnc3.com

Welcome

This article grows out of a recent Canadian Council of the Blind BC Yukon Division Zoom presentation, where Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd. demonstrated two free navigation apps, VoiceVista and Moovit, that help blind, deaf‑blind, and partially sighted travellers explore their world with greater independence. The session sparked lively discussion about how digital tools complement, but never replace, traditional orientation and mobility skills.

Learn more about the BC Yukon Division:
https://ccbbcyukon.com/contact/

Download the apps:

Download VoiceVista for iOS (Free): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/voicevista/id6450388413

Download  Moovit (Free / Paid): https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/moovit-public-transit-tracker/id498477945

Why Mobility Aids Still Matter

Navigation apps can announce nearby landmarks, show bus arrival times, and suggest efficient routes, yet they do not replace the white cane, the guide dog, or the orientation and mobility training that builds safe travel habits. These aids remain the foundation of independent movement; apps simply add another layer of helpful information.

VoiceVista: Your Audio Guide to the World Around You

VoiceVista is a free iOS app that converts raw GPS data into spatial audio cues describing streets, intersections, and landmarks in the direction you face. It lets users set beacons, drop breadcrumbs, and create custom routes ideal for outdoor exploration.

  • No account required
  • Fully compatible with VoiceOver
  • Works with open‑ear and bone‑conduction headsets
  • Community‑driven and open source

For more details, read the VoiceVista FAQ:
https://drwjf.github.io/vvt/faq.html

Moovit: Making Public Transit More Predictable

Moovit is a global transit app that covers thousands of cities, including every major system in Canada. Enter a destination and Moovit provides step‑by‑step guidance, real‑time arrival data, and vibration or voice alerts for transfers and stop announcements.

  • Real‑time bus and train arrivals
  • VoiceOver and TalkBack support
  • Customisable walking speed and route preferences
  • No registration needed for basic use

For more details, read the Moovit FAQ:
https://support.moovitapp.com/hc/en-us/articles/9024545968274-FAQ-to-Moovit

Understanding the Data: GTFS and GPS

GTFS (General Transit Feed Specification) is a worldwide data standard that transit agencies use to publish schedules, stop locations, accessibility notes, and live vehicle positions. Moovit consumes these feeds to display reliable arrival predictions and to trigger on‑board stop call‑outs such as “Approaching: Granville and Broadway.”

GPS (Global Positioning System) is a satellite network that enables both apps to calculate your position outdoors. Accuracy depends on an unobstructed sky view:

  • Mild interference – Rain, heavy foliage, or narrow side streets may shift location a few metres.
  • Moderate interference – Tall buildings can reflect signals, placing you on the wrong side of the street.
  • Severe interference – Concrete walls, tunnels, and most indoor settings can block signals completely.

Because of these limitations, GPS‑based turn‑by‑turn guidance may occasionally misidentify a doorway or bus stop. Sound cane skills and environmental awareness remain essential.

Quick Reference

  • VoiceVista – Outdoor, point‑to‑point navigation powered by GPS.
  • Moovit – Public‑transit trip planning powered by GTFS and GPS.
  • Neither app replaces a white cane, a guide dog, or formal mobility training.

Final Thoughts

At Gateway Navigation, inclusion begins with access, access to trustworthy data, to well-designed tools, and to environments that welcome everyone. VoiceVista and Moovit are two such tools. Try them, share your experiences, and remember that technology works best when combined with solid travel skills and the mobility aid you trust most.

Questions or partnership ideas? Contact us at email: partners@gnc3.com or visit our website at https://gnc3.com

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Built Environment Digital Information

5 Part Series – NAAW2024 the Journey Indoors

Celebrating National AccessAbility Week 2024 with Gateway Navigation

National AccessAbility Week 2024 runs from Sunday, May 26th to Saturday, June 1st. This week, beginning on the last Sunday in May, is dedicated to recognizing achievements, raising awareness, and advocating for accessibility and inclusion in our society. To commemorate this important event, Gateway Navigation is posting a series of five blog posts that showcase advances in accessible digital indoor and outdoor wayfinding that we have championed and collaborated on since our founding as a Social Impact Company seven years ago. These posts will focus on key areas where we have made significant strides in enhancing accessibility. Join us in supporting positive change and creating a more accessible future for all!

Monday:

Accessible Digital Maps: Enhancing Navigation for All

Digital maps are essential for indoor and outdoor navigation, but they often lack crucial accessibility information. Accessible digital maps provide detailed guidance on accessible routes, landmarks, and public transportation options, empowering everyone to travel safely and independently.

Tuesday:

Camera Vision, Smartphones, and Wearables: Transforming Accessibility 

Camera vision using smartphones or wearables, such as smart glasses, uses advanced camera technology to enable people to better understand their surroundings by providing real-time visual information through digital text, audio descriptions, or other sensory feedback such as device vibrations.

Wednesday:

Market-Ready Accessible Digital Indoor Navigation Apps: Empowering Independent Travel

Accessible navigation apps are crucial for helping individuals with disabilities travel independently and confidently. These apps provide real-time information and guidance tailored to users' needs.

Thursday:

Gateway Navigation: A Proud Buy Social Canada (BSC) Supplier

As a Buy Social Canada supplier and a company led by persons with disabilities, we align with BSC principles and the Accessible Canada Act, which mandates the principle of "nothing about us without us" for persons with disabilities.

Friday:

Living Accessibility Labs: Innovating Inclusive Spaces

Living Accessibility Labs are real-world environments where accessibility solutions are measured and refined. These labs help create inclusive spaces by addressing accessibility challenges through practical, data-driven approaches, replacing the antiquated siloed approach to accessibility.

During National AccessAbility Week 2024, join us in exploring these innovative solutions and celebrating the progress we've made in creating a more accessible world. Stay tuned for our daily posts highlighting how Gateway Navigation is making a difference. Let us support positive change and work together towards a future where accessibility is a priority for all.

David Brun
Co-Founder
Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd.

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Built Environment Review Transportation

Review: Waymap Indoor and outdoor Navigation App

Washington, DC Metro Transit Deployment

Editor’s Note:

It is crucial to emphasize that while technology such as Waymap is a significant stride in enhancing independent indoor travel for individuals with vision loss, it does not substitute proper orientation and mobility training, nor the use of mobility aids like a white cane or guide dog. A combination of thorough training and location-based wayfinding technology offers a greater sense of independence and freedom for those with vision loss. As technology alone does not replace the essential training and aids that have long been instrumental in enabling independent navigation for persons who are blind or partially sighted.

Dear Inclusive Design Community,

On November 13, 2023, Cyan Kuo, our dedicated leader of user testing for McGill University’s IMAGE Project (link: https://image.a11y.mcgill.ca), found themselves in Washington, DC. With the assistance of Lauren Babinetz, Test Engineer (US) at Waymap, they seized the opportunity to navigate the city's transit system using the Waymap app (link: https://waymapnav.com), currently in the final stages of preparation for its launch. Special thanks to our colleagues, Julian Jackson of VisionBridge, and Jon Fink, Director of Digital Cities Testbed Centres, for playing a pivotal role in connecting Cyan with Celso Zuccollo, Waymap’s COO, and Lauren, who both graciously facilitated the Washington DC Waymap experience.

While Waymap has been somewhat off our radar recently, last month's announcement revealing its selection as the navigation app for Singapore’s transit authority caught our attention. This prompted us to check in and assess the progress of the Waymap deployment in Washington, DC.

As a quick reminder, on May 24, 2022, Waymap and WMATA announced their partnership to enhance inclusive and equitable train and bus travel in the Washington, DC Metro Area. The deployment is underway, covering 30 Metro train stations and nearly 1,000 bus stops.

During Cyan's exploration of two stations and a bus stop, they noted that the app maintained an impressive accuracy level, staying within one meter or less. It provided clear directions and dynamically adjusted the route to account for changes in elevation, ensuring a seamless interaction with little delay in the delivery of wayfinding instructions. Overall, it was an impressive experience.

In addition, the app is free to end-users, does not require an active data connection to work, and necessitates no venue infrastructure improvements.

However, we were disappointed to find no virtual navigation option. This functionality is beneficial for users who are blind or face challenges in navigating through visual cues, offering them the ability to virtually explore their routes before being on-site. This process fosters increased confidence and a better understanding of the venue surroundings, which can be challenging to grasp in real-time navigation. Ideally, the virtual navigation experience should provide a dead reckoning representation of the intended route, allowing users the option to identify points of interest during their exploration.

That aside, a big thank you to the Waymap Team for their innovation and dedication to improving the digital wayfinding experience for everyone.

Which raises the question: How can we work together to promote the expansion of the Waymap experience in our local communities?

Climate Resilience Planning Creates Unique Opportunity:

As reflected in Cyan’s experience, it is not unreasonable to speculate that the leaps forward in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) over the last couple of years are enhancing the improvement of functionality and precision within the Waymap app. That said, ingenious algorithms and smart device sensors are not the whole story explaining Waymap’s effectiveness in assisting users to navigate complex and unfamiliar spaces.

To understand the element that pulls everything together, we need to look at the app’s utilization of detailed geospatial mapping data to create a comprehensive understanding of the built environment the user needs to navigate. This includes not only Lidar point cloud scans but also architectural floor plans and repositories such as open street maps for outdoor wayfinding.

Interestingly, this major ingredient for dynamic accessible digital wayfinding is readily available through a yet untapped repository of thousands of cloud point scans of  buildings and venues across Canada being gathered as part of Public and Private Sector initiatives. These point clouds are instrumental in generating 3D models of buildings, providing architects, engineers, and designers with tools to assess climate resilience in the built environment. The point cloud scans used in this process present some interesting opportunities for venue managers and owners.

The versatility of these point cloud scans extends beyond their original purpose, as they can be repurposed by app developers like Waymap. This repurposing involves creating essential digital maps for both indoor and outdoor spaces, contributing significantly to enhanced accessibility and inclusion—a development aligning with the expectations outlined in the Accessible Canada Act.

How Does Waymap Work:

Waymap employs a combination of advanced technologies to deliver accurate and reliable navigation for individuals who are blind or partially sighted. Here's a brief overview of how the app works:

  • Audio-based Navigation: Waymap primarily relies on audio cues to guide users. Through the user's smartphone or wearable device, the app provides step-by-step instructions, informing them about the direction and distance to their destination.
  • Geospatial Mapping: The app utilizes detailed geospatial mapping data to create a comprehensive understanding of the environment. This includes not only outdoor spaces but also intricate floor plans for indoor locations.
  • Machine Learning for Route Directions: Waymap leverages machine learning algorithms to recognize and analyze real-time data from the device's sensors. This enables the app to identify accessible routes and provide instant feedback to the user.
  • Accessible User-Friendly Interface: Waymap boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface designed with accessibility in mind. Users can easily input their destination, customize preferences, and receive clear, concise instructions.

Transformative Potential:

The Waymap navigation app is more than just a tool for getting from point A to point B. It represents a shift towards a more inclusive and accessible world for individuals who are blind or partially sighted. By providing a reliable and efficient means of navigation, Waymap empowers users to explore their surroundings, participate in social activities, and navigate public spaces with newfound independence.

In Conclusion:

Although real-life deployment and user experience in daily routines will be the ultimate review, my reflection on Waymap's journey, from my early stage of testing on the University of British Columbia Campus to its current state of readiness for commercialization, the progress is truly remarkable. The initial promise observed during beta testing has now transformed into a fully-fledged product. Yet, the ultimate measure of success lies in the acceptance it receives from users who are blind or partially sighted, as well as the commitment of venues to invest in its deployment.

Finally, if your organization is exploring the use of inclusive indoor and outdoor wayfinding solutions, we would welcome the opportunity to join your conversation. Our team at Gateway Navigation can be reached by email at partners@gnc3.com.

Sincerely, David Brun

  • Cofounder
  • Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd.
  • North Vancouver, BC, Canada

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Awareness Digital Information

Accessibility in the Age of AI: Preventing a New Digital Divide

Staying Ahead of the Curve: Accessibility in an Era of Accelerating Innovation

Summary

Rapid advances in artificial intelligence are reshaping how we work, govern, and participate in society. For people with disabilities, the challenge is no longer only access — it is keeping pace. This reflection explores how open and collaborative artificial intelligence can prevent individuals from being left behind in the information revolution.

There was a time when accessibility barriers felt immovable.

Software interfaces changed slowly. Assistive technologies evolved gradually. Innovation cycles were measured in years.

Today, that pace has shifted dramatically.

Artificial intelligence tools improve monthly. Software platforms update continuously. Digital workflows evolve in real time. The information revolution is no longer approaching — it is underway.

For people with disabilities, the challenge is not only gaining access. It is staying ahead of the curve.

When innovation accelerates without accessibility built in, gaps widen quickly. What worked yesterday may fail tomorrow. Workflows break. Independence is disrupted. Confidence can erode.

This is not theoretical. It is practical.

From Barriers to Participation

As Treasurer of a not-for-profit residential housing complex, I am responsible for reviewing financial statements, invoices, and supporting documentation.

In the past, interpreting tables, scanned invoices, or graphical layouts often required sighted assistance. Certain responsibilities felt, at times, insurmountable.

Today, a combination of tools creates a functional level playing field:

  • ChatGPT to review financial statements and generate structured summaries

  • Be My AI to interpret PDF invoices, scanned documents, and graphical images

  • NVDA on a Windows desktop for structured navigation and data review

  • VoiceOver on an iPhone when mobile access is required

These tools allow:

  • Independent review of complex financial reports

  • Interpretation of visual and graphical content

  • Rapid summarization of lengthy documents

  • Cross-checking of figures and trends

The result is not convenience. It is governance capacity.

Extending Independence Beyond the Desk

Accessibility does not stop at documents.

When exploring the residential complex grounds, reviewing maintenance areas, or orienting to changes in the physical environment, wearable artificial intelligence tools extend that same independence.

Using Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, I can receive real-time descriptions of surroundings, read posted notices, and identify environmental details while moving through the complex.

This creates:

  • Greater situational awareness

  • Increased confidence during independent mobility

  • Faster response to issues requiring attention

  • More direct participation in oversight responsibilities

When combined with desktop and mobile tools, wearable artificial intelligence closes another gap between physical and digital environments.

The playing field becomes more level — not because barriers disappear, but because technology adapts.

The Risk of Falling Behind

However, rapid innovation carries risk.

  • Accessibility tools can lag behind mainstream updates

  • Platform changes can instantly disrupt workflows

  • Artificial intelligence capabilities are often confined to proprietary ecosystems

If accessibility depends on fragile integrations, independence becomes unstable.

In an era where artificial intelligence evolves monthly rather than yearly, accessibility strategies must evolve continuously.

Staying ahead of the curve is essential to prevent a new digital divide.

The Case for Open and Collaborative Artificial Intelligence

Gateway Navigation’s participation in the EPITOME initiative, focused on evidence-based inclusion and meaningful employment, reinforced an important lesson:

Sustainable accessibility depends on shared foundations, not isolated solutions.

Open and collaborative artificial intelligence enables:

  • Faster adaptation when interfaces change

  • Shared learning across sectors and borders

  • Transparency in system design

  • Broader participation by smaller organizations and community groups

Projects such as IMAGE (Internet Multimodal Access to Graphical Exploration) were designed to provide architectural building blocks that others can extend.

When tools are open and interoperable, improvements made in one context benefit many others.

Preventing a New Digital Divide

The information revolution holds enormous promise. Artificial intelligence can support governance, employment, education, and civic participation.

But without proactive design, it can also create new forms of exclusion.

The goal is not simply access to tools. It is sustained participation in a rapidly evolving environment.

That means:

  • Designing systems that anticipate change

  • Building resilience into accessibility tools

  • Translating lived experience into policy insight

  • Ensuring innovation does not outpace inclusion

Accessibility must be treated as core infrastructure for the digital age.

Looking Forward

Innovation is accelerating. Artificial intelligence capabilities are expanding. Tools that once seemed experimental are now embedded in daily workflows.

The question is whether accessibility will evolve at the same pace.

At Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd., we believe the answer depends on collaboration, openness, and a commitment to staying ahead of the curve.

The objective is clear: ensure that no one falls behind in this era of continuous innovation.

For collaboration inquiries:
partners@gnc3.com

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Advocacy Built Environment Transportation

Revolutionizing Smart City Wayfinding 

Waymap Launches Across the Entire Transit System – Indoor, Outdoor, and Underground.

 

Navigating public transit can be a challenge for anyone, including individuals who are blind, have low vision, or have other mobility needs. Complex stations, unfamiliar routes, elevator outages, and inaccessible signage create barriers that make independent travel difficult. But what if an app could provide precise, step-by-step navigation, along with alert notifications and rerouting, making public transit truly inclusive? 

Waymap’s Official Launch: A Game-Changer for Inclusive Navigation 

From Early Trials to a Breakthrough in Inclusive Wayfinding 

Back in 2015, at Gateway Navigation, we began exploring how emerging technologies—specifically iBeacons and the iPhone—could revolutionize navigation for people who are blind or have low vision. By 2017, we had connected with the Wayfindr Project in the UK and Right-Hear in Israel, running our own BLE beacon trial at the Vancouver Central Library. Looking back, it’s remarkable how quickly technology has evolved in such a short time. 

Over the years, two key approaches to inclusive digital wayfinding (Augmented Reality / AR) have emerged: 

  • Camera-based vision technology, used by innovative app developers including Aira, GoodMaps, and NaviLens. 
  • Smartphone sensor-based navigation apps, led by Waymap and Haptic. 

Which brings us to today—and our excitement about the official Waymap launch across the Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority (WMTA). This milestone is more than just a technological achievement—it’s a transformational step toward universal accessibility. Waymap is led by Tom Pey, a blind visionary dedicated to fundamentally changing how people, regardless of their challenge, navigate the world. 

Waymap Launches Across the Entire WMTA: Revolutionizing Navigation for All 

Navigating complex city spaces can be challenging, but for people who are blind, have low vision, or have mobility limitations, it can often feel daunting or impossible. That’s where Waymap comes in—an innovative navigation app designed to make cities and transit systems moreinclusive for everyone. Whether you are hopping on a bus, catching a train, or simply walking through a station, Waymap provides step-by-step audio / text guidance to help users travel safely and independently. 

A Major Milestone: The WMTA Partnership 

Waymap has taken a significant step forward with its full deployment across WMTA, covering: 

  • 98 rail stations 
  • Over 11,000 bus stops 
  • 325 bus routes 

This launch is the culmination of a four-year partnership between WMTA and Waymap, which began with a successful pilot project at Crystal City station in 2021. Now, Waymap’s real-time navigation works seamlessly in both indoor and outdoor environments, ensuring users can confidently navigate whether they’re in busy stations, on city streets, or underground. 

How Waymap Works 

What makes Waymap revolutionary is its ability to navigate without relying on GPS, Wi-Fi, or cellular signals. Instead, it uses the phone’s internal sensors—such as the gyroscope, accelerometer, barometer, and magnetometer—to gather real-time data. These sensors allow Waymap to determine direction, speed, altitude, and orientation, using AI-powered algorithms to ensure accuracy within one step. 

With precise, step-by-step audio/ text instructions, users can navigate public transit independently and safely, even in signal-dead zones like underground stations. 

Why It Matters 

The launch of Waymap in the WMTA system is not just a technological breakthrough—it’s a significant step toward more inclusive cities. Beyond assisting people with disabilities, this app also benefits seniors, young families, tourists, and newcomers who may struggle with complex transit networks. 

WMTA is also implementing broader accessibility improvements, including: 

  • Updated signage 
  • Intuitive wayfinding icons 
  • Enhancements to overall station accessibility 

Waymap is proving that accessible / inclusive transit benefits everyone—and it’s time to bring this innovation to more cities. 

A Call for Canadian Input: Where Should Waymap Go Next? 

Now that Waymap is revolutionizing transit in Washington, where should it expand next? We believe Canadian cities would greatly benefit from this cutting-edge tool—but we need your input. 

???? Have Your Say! 

We’re inviting Canadians to share their thoughts on which cities or transit systems should be actively implementing Waymap or other similar innovative solutions. 

???? Help Us Make Transit More Accessible! 

If you’re passionate about accessible navigation, we’d love to hear from you! Your feedback will help advocate for better, more inclusive transit solutions across Canada. 

???? Take our quick survey below to help shape the future of inclusive transit in Canada. Where should Waymap go next? Let’s decide together! 

#Waymap #AccessibleTransit #SmartCities #InclusiveMobility #BlindNavigation #DisabilityInclusion #PublicTransport #UrbanInnovation 

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Advocacy Awareness Uncategorized

How Accessibility Builds Purpose-Driven Companies

Video with CAN WiN & Open Door Group

We are proud to support this campaign with CAN WiN & Open Door Group, showcasing how businesses can champion accessibility and unlock new opportunities. 

"Accessibility empowers people to work at these businesses. The employees there understand that their company is actively engaging with communities. It is doing Tech for Good. It is standing for social justice, which not only makes you proud of the company you work for, but also empowers you to try to make a difference." 
David Brun, Co-founder, Gateway Navigation 

Join us in amplifying this message, reshare and let’s create a more inclusive world!

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#WorkplaceCulture #AccessibleWorkplaces #InclusiveWorkplace #AccessibilityMatters #DisabilityInclusion 

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Awareness Built Environment

CBC Video: North Vancouver Resident Who is Blind Leads Walk to Raise Public Right of Way Accessibility Awareness”

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Uncategorized

Gateway Navigation Celebrated as Untapped Awards Nominee!

Ready to find out more?

We’re excited to share that Gateway Navigation has been nominated for the 2024 Untapped Awards in the Social Enterprise category! This B.C. Disability Employment Month, we were honored to discuss what accessibility means to us.

We’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to reply to this email or connect with us on LinkedIn.

You can read more in this inspiring LinkedIn post:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/davidatgateway_untappedawards-disabilityinclusion-diversity-activity-7237839458983698432-Mwhs?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

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Built Environment Digital Information Innovation Project

Spotlight on Innovative Projects

Advancing Universal Design and Inclusion

We are on the brink of transformative change that promises to enhance inclusion for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or partially sighted. Earlier this summer, two groundbreaking project applications were submitted to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), led by prominent institutions: the Shared Reality Lab at McGill University and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). These initiatives unite a distinguished consortium of partners, including the University of British Columbia’s Special Education Department, BC Provincial Resource Centre for the Visually Impaired, and the Institute Nazareth et Louis Braille. 

Gateway Navigation: A Catalyst for Change 

Gateway Navigation plays a pivotal role in fostering dynamic collaborations aimed at addressing universal design and accessibility needs. With its expertise in bridging diverse institutions, Gateway Navigation is instrumental in spearheading projects that tackle pressing accessibility challenges. 

Project 1: Equitable Access to Reading Materials 

Lead Applicant: Shared Reality Lab, McGill University
Supported By: University of British Columbia’s Special Education Department, BC Provincial Resource Centre for the Visually Impaired 

Objective: This project targets significant barriers for blind and low-vision (BLV) students, especially concerning access to educational materials with graphics. The goals are to: 

  • Produce curated content in alternative formats. 
  • Develop an accessible online repository hosted initially at McGill University. 
  • Release all code and documentation as open-source under GPL/AGPL licenses. 
  • Utilize technologies like the Humanware APH Monarch dynamic pin array tablet to offer interactive, rich experiences in BRF/eBRF, audio, and AI-enhanced audio-tactile formats. 

Key Activities: 

  • Content Curation: Collaborate with educators to select materials for conversion. 
  • Document Format Development: Create and refine document formats and audio rendering. 
  • Web-Based Engine Development: Build an engine for interactive experiences. 
  • User Evaluation: Refine experiences based on feedback from BLV students and teachers. 
  • Content Storage and Access: Implement and maintain a server-based system. 

Expected Outcomes: 

  • Enhanced access to educational materials for BLV students. 
  • Creation of accessible reading units. 
  • Development of an AI-assisted pipeline for multimodal educational documents. 
  • Positive feedback from at least 50 teachers and students. 

Project 2: Inclusivity in Motion: Living Lab for Assistive Indoor Navigation 

Lead Applicant: British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)
Supported By: Gateway Navigation, McGill University’s Shared Reality Lab, INBL – Institute Nazareth et Louis Braille, Aira Explorer Innovation Group 

Objective: The Inclusivity in Motion project aims to improve indoor navigation through accessible digital maps and smart wearables. The focus is on enhancing independence and safety in complex environments such as airports and shopping centres. 

Key Activities: 

  • Digital Map Creation: Develop accessible, real-time digital indoor maps. 
  • Smart Wearable Integration: Incorporate smart wearables for seamless navigation. 
  • Living Lab Implementation: Pilot tests at Vancouver and Montreal transportation hubs. 
  • Public Education: Raise awareness about inclusivity and accessibility. 

Expected Outcomes: 

  • Increased accessibility for over 1.4 million people with disabilities. 
  • Enhanced public awareness of inclusivity and accessibility. 
  • Professional development opportunities in universal design for students from BCIT and McGill. 

Call to Action 

As we await the outcome of these funding applications, we invite like-minded individuals and organizations to connect with us. Let’s collaborate to drive the future of universal design and inclusion.  

If you share our vision and are interested in exploring partnership opportunities, please reach out. Let’s join forces to remove barriers and advance inclusion, paving the way for a more accessible and inclusive future for all. Email us at: partners@gnc3.com 

 

 

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Awareness Innovation

NAAW2024 Post 5: Gateway Navigation and Living Accessibility Lab Model

Living Accessibility Labs: Innovating Inclusive Spaces

Introduction to Living Accessibility Labs

Living Accessibility Labs are dynamic environments where innovative accessibility solutions are tested and refined. These labs are set up in real-world settings, such as public spaces, workplaces, and schools, allowing researchers and developers to observe and improve how accessible technologies perform in everyday situations. The goal is to create inclusive spaces that meet the diverse needs of all individuals, particularly those with disabilities.

Creating Inclusive Deployments

Setting up a Living Accessibility Lab involves several key steps to ensure that it effectively addresses accessibility challenges:

  1. Identify the Venue: Choose locations where accessibility improvements are most needed, such as busy public transit hubs, educational institutions, or community centers.
  2. Collaborate with Stakeholders: Work with local governments, businesses, and disability advocacy groups to gather insights and gain support.
  3. Install Technologies: Implement various accessibility technologies, such as digital wayfinding systems, assistive listening devices, and accessible public kiosks.
  4. Engage Users: Invite individuals with disabilities to use the space and provide feedback on their experiences.

These steps ensure that the lab is set up to address real-world needs and challenges, making the results more applicable and beneficial.

Examples of Current or Planned Deployments

Living Accessibility Labs can be found in various locations, each focusing on different aspects of accessibility. For instance, a lab in a busy train station might test new navigation apps and tactile paving for visually impaired commuters. Another lab in a university might evaluate accessible classroom technologies, such as speech-to-text services and adjustable desks. These real-world deployments provide valuable data and insights that drive the development of more effective accessibility solutions.

Gathering Data and Insights

Collecting data is a crucial part of Living Accessibility Labs. Various methods are used to gather information on how well the accessibility solutions are working:

  • User Feedback: Direct feedback from individuals using the technologies provides firsthand insights into what works well and what needs improvement.
  • Surveys and Interviews: Detailed surveys and interviews with users help gather in-depth information about their experiences.
  • Observational Studies: Researchers observe how users interact with the technologies in real-time, identifying any challenges or obstacles.
  • Usage Analytics: Data from digital devices and apps can show how often and in what ways the technologies are being used.

By combining these data collection methods, researchers gain a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of the accessibility solutions.

Impact on Venues, App Developers, and End Users

Living Accessibility Labs offer numerous benefits for various stakeholders:

  • Venues: Locations hosting these labs often see increased foot traffic and positive public relations as they become known as leaders in accessibility.
  • App Developers: Developers gain valuable insights that help them refine their products, making them more effective and user-friendly.
  • End Users: Individuals with disabilities experience enhanced accessibility, leading to greater independence and an improved quality of life.

These labs create a positive feedback loop, where continuous improvements benefit all parties involved.

Future Directions

The future of Living Accessibility Labs is bright, with plans to expand their reach and impact:

  • More Locations: Expanding the number of labs in various settings, including rural areas and small towns, to ensure broader accessibility improvements.
  • New Technologies: Continuously incorporating the latest advancements in accessibility technology to keep the labs at the cutting edge.
  • Increased Collaboration: Partnering with more organizations and stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness and reach of the labs.
  • Community Engagement: Encouraging greater involvement from the disabled community to ensure that the solutions developed truly meet their needs.

By pursuing these directions, Living Accessibility Labs will continue to drive innovation and inclusivity.

Gateway Navigation’s Commitment

Gateway Navigation is proud to integrate the Living Accessibility Lab model into their projects. This commitment aligns with their dedication to fostering a more accessible and inclusive world. By leveraging real-world testing environments and continuous community engagement, Gateway Navigation ensures their solutions are effective and user-centric. Join us in supporting these efforts and stay tuned for more updates on our ongoing projects and developments. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

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Awareness Innovation

NAAW2024 Post 4: Gateway Navigation and Buy Social Canada

Gateway Navigation: Social Procurement Supplier

Introduction to Buy Social Canada

Buy Social Canada is a forward-thinking program that supports social enterprise businesses that focus on making a positive social impact alongside earning profit. By encouraging organizations to purchase goods and services from social enterprises, Buy Social Canada helps to drive positive social change and build more inclusive communities. This program underscores the importance of supporting businesses dedicated to societal improvement.

Looking Through the Social Procurement Lens

Social procurement is an approach to purchasing that considers not only the cost and quality of goods and services but also their social impact. Instead of just choosing the cheapest option, social procurement prioritizes suppliers that create positive social outcomes, such as providing jobs for disadvantaged groups, supporting local businesses, or using environmentally sustainable practices. This means that when organizations buy products or services, they also help to build stronger communities and support ethical practices. Importantly, social procurement emphasizes accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that people with disabilities have opportunities for employment and training.

By focusing on social procurement, organizations can tackle broader issues like inequality and environmental sustainability while promoting accessibility and inclusion. Choosing to buy from companies that employ and train people with disabilities, or that are committed to reducing carbon emissions, helps promote social inclusion and environmental health. This approach is particularly relevant in Canada, where one out of three Canadians over the age of 16 is either a working-age person with a disability or a senior who has a higher potential of developing a disability through aging. By integrating social procurement practices, organizations ensure that public and private spending contributes to the greater good, creating benefits that go beyond the immediate transaction and supporting a more inclusive and equitable society.

Gateway Navigation's Commitment

Gateway Navigation is proud to be a Buy Social Canada supplier. As a company dedicated to enhancing accessibility and inclusion, Gateway Navigation aligns with Buy Social Canada's principles by focusing on creating solutions that benefit individuals with disabilities. Through their innovative digital information, accessible mapping, and navigation advocacy projects, Gateway Navigation helps make the world more navigable for everyone, ensuring that people with disabilities can move through their environments with confidence and ease.

Subcontracting with Leading-Edge Technology

To ensure the highest quality of their services, Gateway Navigation carefully selects technology partners that share their commitment to accessibility and inclusion. By subcontracting with leading-edge technology providers, they can incorporate the latest advancements into their products, offering users the most effective and reliable solutions. This approach ensures that Gateway Navigation remains at the forefront of innovation in the field of accessible navigation, both in built and digital environments.

Engaging the Disabled Community

Gateway Navigation is not only led by individuals with disabilities but also deeply believes in involving the disabled community in their projects. By actively seeking feedback and input from individuals with disabilities, they can better understand their needs and challenges. This engagement ensures that the solutions they develop are truly user-centric and effective. Continuous improvement, driven by the insights of the disabled community, is a cornerstone of Gateway Navigation's approach.

Conclusion

Gateway Navigation's role as a Buy Social Canada supplier underscores their dedication to social impact and accessibility. Through innovative projects, strategic partnerships, and active community engagement, they are making significant strides in creating a more inclusive society. By supporting social enterprises like Gateway Navigation, we can all contribute to building a world where accessibility is a priority and everyone can navigate and thrive independently.

 

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Built Environment Digital Information

NAAW2024 Post 3: Market-Ready Accessible Digital Indoor Navigation Apps: Empowering Independent Travel

Accessible Digital Indoor Navigation Apps: Empowering Independent Travel

Accessible navigation apps are enhancing the ability of individuals with disabilities to travel more independently and confidently. These apps provide real-time information and guidance tailored to users' needs. Gateway Navigation is dedicated to connecting developers, venues, and people with disabilities, including those who are blind, deafblind, partially sighted, or have challenges interpreting visual cues. Here, we review three outstanding apps that are transforming accessible navigation: Aira Explorer, GoodMaps Explorer, and Waymap.

Aira Explorer: Multi-Purpose Features with Human Visual Interpreters and Aira AI

Aira Explorer stands out with its versatile features and human visual interpreters, providing real-time assistance for users navigating various environments. Aira’s services go beyond mere navigation. Its trained agents help users with tasks such as reading documents, identifying objects, and providing guidance through complex public spaces. Aira AI, currently in beta testing, enhances this service by integrating advanced AI capabilities, offering users immediate assistance without waiting for a human agent.

Aira’s partnerships with major companies, educational institutions, and state governments further extend its reach and reliability. For example, its collaboration with the State of Colorado under the "Colorado for All" initiative showcases Aira's commitment to accessibility in public buildings, colleges, state parks, and digital services.

GoodMaps Explorer: Leading Camera Vision Technology with Multiple Deployments

GoodMaps Explorer is at the forefront of camera vision technology, offering precise and user-friendly navigation solutions. This app uses a combination of machine learning, algorithms, smartphone sensors, and digital maps of indoor venues to provide accurate navigation assistance. GoodMaps Explorer works by comparing real-time camera images captured by the user’s smartphone with pre-stored images and maps of the venue. This process allows the app to pinpoint the user's exact location and provide precise directions and information about their surroundings.

GoodMaps Explorer has been successfully deployed in various settings, from libraries to transit stations, ensuring accessibility for people who are blind, deafblind, and partially sighted. Some notable locations where GoodMaps is available for testing include:

  • Canada: Vancouver Public Library, Toronto Union Station, CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind) locations.
  • United States: Louisville Free Public Library, San Francisco Airport, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

The effectiveness of GoodMaps Explorer relies heavily on accessible digital maps of venues. These maps are essential for the app to provide accurate, real-time guidance. By using detailed digital maps, GoodMaps Explorer offers users a seamless navigation experience, enhancing their confidence and independence.

Waymap: From Nuclear Inspections to Accessible Navigation

Waymap's origin story is unique. Initially developed by Cambridge Consultants to track nuclear inspectors' indoor exploration of Iran’s nuclear facilities, this technology enabled the mapping of inspectors' movements and matching these to exterior satellite maps. This process identified any large indoor areas that inspectors had not been granted access to.

This technology has evolved into an innovative accessible navigation app. Unlike other apps, Waymap does not rely on cameras but uses the sensors in a smartphone, making it highly efficient and adaptable. This approach supports offline usability and ensures low battery consumption, a significant advantage for users on the go.

Waymap's sensor-based technology also depends on accessible digital maps of venues. These maps allow Waymap to provide precise navigation even in environments where connectivity is weak or unavailable. This feature is particularly beneficial in complex indoor spaces like shopping malls, airports, and large public buildings. Waymap exemplifies innovation in accessible navigation, providing reliable and accurate guidance without the need for visual input.

Waymap has been piloted in several locations, including transit hubs in New York and Los Angeles. The app is set to launch in the next few months as part of the Washington DC Metro Accessibility service. Future rollouts are being planned for Canada and other international markets, including Singapore’s transit system.

Gateway Navigation’s Role as a Social Supplier

Gateway Navigation plays an important role in bridging the gap between developers, venues, and people with disabilities. By evaluating and recommending accessible and inclusive solutions, Gateway Navigation ensures that individuals have access to the most effective tools for independent travel. They also facilitate partnerships and collaborations, enhancing the overall accessibility landscape.

Through their efforts, Gateway Navigation supports the development and deployment of apps like Aira Explorer, GoodMaps Explorer, and Waymap, ensuring that these technologies meet the diverse needs of users. Gateway Navigation advocates for the creation of open-source accessible digital maps that can be linked to venues. These maps allow people with disabilities to virtually explore their journeys before doing so in real time, building confidence and knowledge of their surroundings.

Experience the Future of Accessible Navigation

These three apps—Aira Explorer, GoodMaps Explorer, and Waymap—are transforming the way people with disabilities navigate their surroundings. Each app offers unique features and benefits, empowering users with the tools they need for independent and confident travel.

Try These Apps Today

Share your experiences with us and stay updated on our website at Gateway Navigation. Your feedback is crucial in helping us improve and innovate these technologies for a more accessible and inclusive world.

 

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