Categories
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!

#WorkplaceCulture #AccessibleWorkplaces #InclusiveWorkplace #AccessibilityMatters #DisabilityInclusion 

Categories
Awareness Built Environment

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

Categories
Awareness Built Environment

Recognizing White Cane Week in Canada

Mobility, Independence, and Inclusion

White Cane Week, observed annually in Canada during the first full week of February, is an opportunity to recognize the significance of the white cane as a symbol of independence and mobility for people who are blind or have low vision. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for accessibility, inclusive infrastructure, and public awareness about the experiences of individuals with visual impairments. 

As someone who is blind and relies on both a guide dog and a white cane for navigation, I understand firsthand the importance of these tools in maintaining independence and ensuring safe mobility in my community of North Vancouver and beyond. 

Understanding Visual Impairment in Canada 

According to the Canadian Survey on Disability (CSD) conducted by Statistics Canada, approximately 1.5 million Canadians live with vision loss, including those who are legally blind. While many individuals with visual impairments rely on self-guiding techniques or assistive technologies, others use mobility aids such as white canes or guide dogs to navigate their surroundings safely. 

Mobility Aids: White Canes and Guide Dogs 

In Canada, as in many other countries, mobility aids play a crucial role in enabling independence for those with vision loss. 

The White Cane: A Symbol of Independence 

The white cane is widely recognized as a tool that enhances safe navigation for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. It provides tactile feedback about the environment, allowing users to detect obstacles, changes in terrain, and potential hazards. In addition to its practical function, the white cane also serves as a visual indicator, signaling to others that the user may require additional space or assistance when crossing streets, using public transit, or navigating public spaces. 

Data from the United States suggests that approximately 8.4% of people who are legally blind use a long white cane as a mobility aid. While there is no directly comparable data for Canada, similar trends likely apply given the similarities in accessibility standards and mobility training programs. 

Guide Dogs: Partners in Mobility 

Guide dogs offer another valuable means of independent travel, assisting users in navigating obstacles, avoiding hazards, and following directional cues. Despite their effectiveness, guide dog use remains relatively rare. In the United States, only about 5% of people who are blind or visually impaired use a guide dog. 

In Canada, many guide dog teams are trained by International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) schools, some of which are based in the United States. Schools like Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) provide services based on need rather than citizenship, making them truly philanthropic organizations. Notably, approximately 20% of GDB graduates are Canadian, trained at either the California or Oregon campuses before returning home with their guide dogs. This cross-border support ensures that Canadians with visual impairments have access to high-quality guide dog training programs despite the limited number of Canadian-based schools. 

The Role of Accessibility Standards in Pedestrian Safety 

Ensuring safe and accessible pedestrian environments is essential for individuals who rely on white canes, guide dogs, or other mobility aids. 

In advocating for inclusive design, I have been using the U.S. Access Board's Public Rights-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) as a preferred standard. PROWAG is widely recognized as a litigation-tested and de facto national standard, offering robust guidelines for pedestrian infrastructure that prioritizes safety, consistency, and accessibility. 

Efforts to improve pedestrian rights-of-way must also align with Vision Zero principles, an approach that aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries. In British Columbia, pedestrian injury rates remain significantly higher than in countries with comparable demographics, climate, and car-to-population ratios, such as Norway. Addressing these disparities through improved infrastructure, accessible crossings, and mobility training is crucial to enhancing safety for all. 

For more information on PROWAG, visit the U.S. Access Board's website: 🔗 Public Rights-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG). Link: https://www.access-board.gov/prowag/other/accessible-sidewalks-video-series/ 

How Gateway Navigation is Driving Change 

At Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd., we are committed to creating a more accessible world through smart wayfinding solutions, assistive technology, and advocacy for inclusive design. Our work includes: 

Deploying real-time navigation apps that enhance mobility for people who are blind or visually impaired. 

Partnering with transit agencies, airports, and public spaces to implement digital accessibility solutions. 

Conducting accessibility audits to ensure pedestrian infrastructure is inclusive for all. 

Advocating for policy improvements that align with global best practices like PROWAG. 

We believe accessibility is a shared responsibility, and collaboration is key to making meaningful progress. 

Join the Conversation 

White Cane Week is not just about recognizing a mobility tool—it’s about fostering a culture of accessibility and inclusion. Whether through improved urban design, stronger accessibility legislation, or greater public awareness, we all have a role to play in making our communities safer and more navigable for individuals with vision loss. 

We invite you to share your thoughts, experiences, or questions in the comments below. How can we improve pedestrian accessibility in your community? If you’re interested in working together, connect with us at Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd.—let’s build a more inclusive future together. 

Let’s use this White Cane Week to champion independence, mobility, and accessibility for all. 

 

Video - Public Right of Way Accessibility Guidelines PrOWAG
Categories
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.

Categories
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.

 

Categories
Awareness Built Environment

Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB) White Cane Week – Enhancing Accessibility in Our Neighborhoods

Dear Inclusive Design Community,

Editor’s note: At the end of the post below, click on the link to Margaret Gallaghers, host of CBC Radio’s North By Northwest episode Telling the story of Karim’s and Fraser’s journey as blind and partially sighted individuals navigating the streets near Metrotown in Burnaby, BC.

First, a big thank you to Vic Leach, Pedestrian Safety Advocate with Walkers' Caucus - New West & Burnaby, BC. Who has volunteered countless hours to implement this White Cane Week initiative in British Colombia, Canada.

That said, in a world where accessibility is often an afterthought, it is encouraging to connect with elected officials actively supporting a White Cane Week initiative. This initiative pairs local residents who are blind, deafblind, or partially sighted to lead walks with locally elected officials, providing them with firsthand experiences to navigate and assess the accessibility of our sidewalks, crosswalks, and intersections.

I will be leading four walks as part of White Cane week In North Vancouver.

These accessibility awareness walks will begin with Councillor Herman Mah of DNV and continue throughout the week with Councillor Jessica McIlroy (CNV), MLA Susie Chant (NV Seymour), and Councillor Tony Valente (CNV). Each of them has embraced the opportunity to experience both the independence and challenges of navigating our streets from the perspective of someone who is blind.

In  leading these walks in North Vancouver, I have the privilege of representing the many residents on the North Shore living with vision loss. With the hope of conveying to our elected officials. That with proper orientation, mobility and blindness skills training along with accessible design standards being applied in our communities. Will enable people who are blind, deafblind or partially sighted to more fully participate in our local communities.

Beyond the immediate benefits of enhanced accessibility, it is essential to recognize the broader positive impact on the community. Improved accessibility not only facilitates the independent mobility for all people with disabilities, but also contributes to reducing injuries and, consequently, the burden on local healthcare systems. Additionally, creating a more accessible environment fosters a sense of inclusivity, encouraging people with disabilities to be more active and less isolated.

During our walks, we will be  identifying key areas for improvement. Focusing on crucial points likely to be discussed for people who are blind, deafblind or partially sighted, such as:

Curb Cut Aways: / Curb Ramps:

  • Orient the pedestrian in the direction of the path of travel across the street and not into the centre of the intersection as has been done in some applications.
  • Feature truncated dome tactile indicators to indicate transition at bottom of ramp, just prior to entering the street level
  • Clear width of a curb ramp should be one meter excluding flared sides. If the ramp is part of a marked crosswalk, the width should be the width of the marked crosswalk.
  • Surface of the curb ramp should be firm, stable, and slip-resistant.
  • Ensure strategically placed wheelchair-accessible curb cutaways guide pedestrians directly to crosswalks. Maintain an ideal width matching that of the crosswalk and feature truncated dome tactile indicators to indicate transition at bottom of ramp, just prior to entering the street level.

Pedestrian-Controlled Traffic Signals:

  • Install poles with easily accessible push buttons at crosswalks to accommodate pedestrians.
  • Ensure that audible crossing signals are not only sufficiently loud but also appropriately timed, providing a safe and discernible indication for those with visual impairments during street crossings.
  • Additionally, incorporate audible locator sounds emanating from the pedestrian push-button boxes every 2-3 seconds to assist blind individuals in locating the button for pedestrian crossing.
  • Consideration should be applied to set locator or crossing audible signals to corelate with the louder background noise during the day and the quieter time at night.

Sidewalk Accessibility and Separation from Street:

  • Ensure sidewalks maintain a clear path, minimizing obstacles that could disrupt linear routes of travel for individuals using white canes or guide dogs.
  • Use distinct borders to signal the transition from the sidewalk to parallel traffic, aiding individuals with visual impairments in navigating the pedestrian environment safely and independently.

In conclusion, let's seize the opportunity presented by White Cane Week to make meaningful strides toward a more accessible, safer, and inclusive community for everyone. Attention to these considerations will undoubtedly contribute significantly to achieving these goals.

Sincerely,

David Brun, North Vancouver, BC Canada

Below is the link mentioned at the start of the post.

Walk This Way: Fraser, Karim and Enzo with Margaret Gallagher from CBC Radio on January 28, 2024.

Fraser Hiltz, Karim Damani and guide dog Enzo joined Margaret Gallagher from CBC Radio’s North by Northwest to explore some of the accessibility issues facing people who are visually impaired. Representing the New Westminster and Burnaby Walkers' Caucus, Fraser and Karim led Margaret Gallagher on a guided walk. You can listen to their North by Northwest segment at the following link:

https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-43-north-by-northwest

Categories
Awareness News

Access Radio’s SoapBox Interview

60-Minute Podcast: discover Everything you need to know about digital indoor navigation

Well, maybe not everything, but without a doubt many of the high points to give a good understanding of the technology and the far-reaching benefits it offers in creating inclusive and welcoming venues for everyone.
Join Access Radio’s, Soapbox host extraordinaire Amy Amantea for an in-depth discussion on indoor navigation, accessibility and inclusion recorded on Wednesday, March 31, 2021.
Amy is joined by Jeff Godfrey, General Manager, Y4U developer of the Accessibuild app / platform, Brian Bibault, Assistive Tech advocate and David Brun, Co-Founder Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd, specializing in inclusive audio-based indoor and outdoor navigation systems.
Click the link below to hear the conversation:
https://www.spreaker.com/user/10551881/soapbox-march-31-final
Thank you to Amy and Access Radio for providing their platform to help us spread the word on the social, environmental, and economic benefits offered via inclusive indoor and outdoor navigation systems.
For more information and to continue the conversation email us at partners@gnc3.com

 

Categories
Awareness Innovation News

CF Pacific Centre Mall: Inclusive Audio-Based Indoor Navigation Pilot

In 2021, A New Inclusive Shopping Experience is Coming to CF Pacific Centre in Downtown Vancouver

Smartphone users will be able to navigate the interior of Cadillac Fairview’s CF Pacific Centre using an interactive app called Accessibuild. Jeff Godfrey, the app developer, explains, “users will be able to complete journeys in real time or virtually. The app provides directions and instructions from a starting point until the user arrives at their destination. Providing an experience like outdoor GPS but indoors. Unlike other apps that use a purely graphic interface, this one is fully accessible to persons who are blind”.

Lillian Tummonds, General Manager, and her team at CF Pacific Centre have been collaborating with Y4U / Accessibuild and Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd to implement this first of its kind pilot in Canada.

David Brun, Founder of Gateway Navigation a community contribution company in partnership with the Canadian Council of the Blind, describes the recent innovations in creating highly accurate architectural models, “as the game changer in providing accurate wayfinding that delivers a unique augmented reality experience for all users.”

What has happened so far?

Early in December, Kickstart, a local BC company specializing in LiDAR scan technology, worked a night shift compiling one hundred and twenty laser light scans of Cadillac Fairview’s flagship mall in Vancouver, CF Pacific Centre. The mall stretches three city blocks, starting at Robson Street to the south and extending to Pender Street at the north, including the large food court connecting the Mall to the Heritage Hudson Bay Building.

This location has long been considered the epicentre of downtown Vancouver. The adjacent Canada Line SkyTrain Station bears the name City Centre. A fitting starting point for creating accessible and inclusive indoor wayfinding for all downtown Vancouver’s shoppers and visitors.

In September 2020 Y4U / Accessibuild and Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd. joined a conversation with Cadillac Fairview that had been initiated by David Martin, a tenant in 701 West Georgia Street, an office tower connected to the Mall. Due to David’s own personal experience of growing up with his mother, Maureen, blind from the advancement of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), he recognized the potential impact of accessible audio-based indoor navigation for the users of such an important community space in Vancouver. He appreciates the benefits his mother and other family members with vision impairment would get from being more independent and confident in navigating their trips to local shops and venues at CF Pacific Centre.

Hence, a single letter initiated a conversation, that in turn identified a common vision, and has now transformed into a pilot project that will provide greater access and inclusion for everyone.

What are the next steps?

In February 2021, Y4U will have converted the data point cloud gathered by the LiDAR scans into a digital 3D architectural map of the main level of CF Pacific Centre. They will then download the essential elements of that map to their Accessibuild platform, following the voluntary standards set out by the Computer Technology Association (as included in the recommendations of the CTA inclusive indoor and outdoor audio-based navigation system for all persons).

Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd. personnel, who have overseen the collaboration from inception, will then engage with Cadillac Fairview, local community stakeholders, accessibility consultants and orientation mobility professionals to beta test the Accessibuild app and platform. Feedback from that engagement will result in recommendations to enhance the audio-based augmented reality experience delivered to users.

As we progress through the pilot, we look forward to providing updates leading up to the launch of the Accessibuild app in the Spring of 2021.

Many thanks to the exceptional team at Cadillac Fairview for their commitment and willingness to partner with us on this community project. Thanks also to David Martin who took the time to write the letter to introduce Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd. to the Cadillac Fairview team.

Please feel free to contact us by e-mail at: partners@gnc3.com with any questions, feedback or leads for future projects.

David Brun, Gateway Navigation CCC Ltd.

Categories
Awareness Innovation Service

Gateway Navigation: Inclusive Audio-Based Navigation Systems

Who We Are and What We Do

Gateway Navigation CCC Limited is a unique social enterprise based in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Bringing together social innovation and for-profit sustainability. Founded in 2017 by individuals and organizations that share a lived experience in disability and a passion to make a difference in their community. Our social and business objective is to create a more accessible and inclusive world through applying human centred design in the use of accessible ABN networks in interior and exterior spaces.

Gateway Navigation applies a multifaceted approach in working with venues, suppliers, and stakeholders. This includes upholding principles of universal design, expertise in available assistive technology, stakeholder co-design, testing proof of concept, inoperability of technology and facilitating ongoing feedback by the venue's accessibility team, stakeholders, and users.

Gateway Navigation creates an accessible wayfinding assessment.  Mapping the venue's architectural elements, including auditory, tactile, high contrast and environmental features. Supporting inclusive wayfinding systems and universal design concepts. Starting at public transit or drop-off pick up points to the desired arrival point of a journey.  This assessment becomes the basis for potential audio-based navigation network solutions.

The desired outcome of reliable, consistent and impactful projects is achieved by viewing them through a holistic lens, That Integrates best practices and principles to create an orientation story that guides users with reliable and consistent information as set out in both the ITU and CTA standards for inclusive audio-based indoor and outdoor navigation systems for all persons.

Categories
Advocacy Awareness workshop

Sinclair Centre: Inclusive Audio-Based Indoor Navigation for all Persons

Sinclair Centre Plays Virtual Host to Audio-Based Navigation Scavenger Hunt

Editors note: At the end of the post is a link to the Accessibuild app for IOS and Android users to download the free app. Then participate in the scavenger hunt. Using a virtual map of Sinclair Centre and recover the clues used in the June 4th National Accessibility Awareness Week event.
As part of National Accessibility Awareness Week. Public Services Procurement Canada partnered with Gateway Navigation and Accessibuild. In a one-hour Zoom session focused on universal design, accessibility as a social justice issue and a virtual scavenger map walk through at Sinclair Centre.
The session titled “Enhancing Accessibility One Building at a Time”, is based on an educational / awareness series developed by Jim Taggart FRAIC in collaboration with Gateway Navigation and the Canadian Council of the Blind. Added to this edition was an interactive virtual audio-based indoor navigation experience created by Jeff Godfrey, Lead App Developer, Accessibuild. With the support of Sinclair Centre, home of Services Canada and Passport Canada Offices in downtown Vancouver.
David Brun, Director and Founder, Gateway Navigation stated, “We are extremely fortunate to have the confidence and support of the leadership of PSPC in British Columbia to get our perspective and solutions to potential users and decision makers within the Federal Government. Specifically, I would like to express my deep appreciation to Tara Hartley, Regional Director and Annie Desgagné, Regional Director General of PSPC. And their teams for making our efforts possible. When trying to change attitudes and empower ability in contrast to decades if not centuries of engrained bias. The need for Champions is vital and we are extremely fortunate to have Annie and Tara working with us”
Jim Taggart in his presentation explains, “There are no special needs only the needs for people to work, go to school or access services”. Further elaborating that the lack of universal design contributes far more to a person being disable than any limitation they may have in sight, hearing, mobility, etc.”. Concluding that with 22% of the population currently identifying as having a disability and compounding this reality with an aging population. Creating accessible and inclusive public spaces is not only important it is essential for the economic and social health of society.
Jeff Godfrey from Accessibuild then set the stage for the interactive experience of Sinclair Centre, saying, “Normally, for a full service app a highly accurate scan would be done of the interior space, that would then be rendered into a map data file for download to the app. However, for the purpose of this event a data file was created from existing architectural drawings and due to the current social distancing restrictions, the on-site accessibility assessment and trialing by stakeholders was not possible. For that reason, the purpose of the map developed is as a virtual map experience to demonstrate the functionality of the app and is not to used for actual navigation purposes”.
Brian Bibeault, a member of the Canadian Council of the Blind and the Get Together with Tech GTT Program. Then demonstrated the app and the pre-set route through Sinclair Centre. Brian described the features of the app and his experience in testing. Adding, “Using the app to navigate the beta test site in North Bay, I consistently arrive within a step of my destination. The app provides me with direction, distance, and relevant information at each decision-making point. While I apply my orientation and mobility skills as a white cane user to navigate independently.
During question and answer an audience member asked, how would a deaf person access the app for navigation purposes. Panelist, Albert Ruel, Coordinator CC B Get Together with Tech Program, replied, “The map data is digital, not graphical as you would find using Apple or Google maps. So, this information can be delivered through the means most accessible to the user. For example, a braille user could use a refreshable braille device connected to their smartphone. A deaf or visually impaired user may just used screen text that is enhanced by contrast or font size. Or as in my case, by audio feed.”
In concluding, Brun summarized, “we are at the cusp of great change in relation to inclusive audio-based navigation systems. The cost effectiveness and accuracy available through advances in LiDAR mapping. Combined with Apple’s Indoor Mapping Data Format – IMDF as a shareable open source database. Puts venues, app developers and users on a path to greater accessibility and inclusion for everyone”.
Please contact us at partners@gnc3.com if you or your organization would like to find out more about our educational / awareness series, “Enhancing Accessibility One Building at a Time” or for any questions or quotes to make your venue more accessible using inclusive audio-based navigation systems that benefit everyone.
Accessibuild free app links:
Android: coming soon. Check the Accessibuild homepage for availability: https://www.accessibuild.ca/
IOS: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/accessibuild/id1487709203