Easing The Way For Blind Hams To Use Digital Modes
/Software builders and tinkerers are being sent a special message from a fellow ham on behalf of radio operators like him who are blind or have low vision, keeping them from enjoying some digital modes.
One of the gifts that Darrell Hilliker, NU7I, has provided to users of contemporary technology is his blog, Blind Access Journal. As an advocate for people who are blind, like Darrell - or perhaps challenged by low vision or obstacles posed by ageing - he has developed his blog to provide resources to developers, decision-makers and other consumers of technology so they can make the modern world more accessible to everyone.
The Arizona radio amateur has now issued a call - a QST in every sense - asking fellow hams to turn their efforts toward making digital mode software such as WSJT-X more accessible too.
Darrell said in a press release that the increasing popularity of digital modes has made it harder for hams with disabilities to participate fully because an accessible user interface is missing from the software.
“A month doesn’t go by where I don’t hear at least one conversation on the bands where an older ham is contemplating giving up or curtailing their activities due to a physical disability like arthritis or a visual impairment. We can do better as a community—and we can do it together.”
“... to inspire and engage members of the amateur radio community.”
He said that because WSJT-X is open source, it provides an opportunity for collaboration for improvements in keyboard navigation, screen reader support and overall usability. He hopes his blog can be a place where advocates, developers and users can brainstorm.
To volunteer or simply to learn more, contact Darrell at editor@blindaccessjournal.com.
