Getting mobile with mobile devices: using the web to improve transit accessibility

ABSTRACT

The current model for public transportation in urban environments poses many limitations for travelers who are blind or visually impaired. Small communities are serviced by transit authorities with constrained budgets. Accordingly, few resources are available for accessibility reform. Larger communities have begun to implement services that take advantage of modern technologies; however, the majority of these services are targeted at the population at large with little regard for these special interest groups.

In this paper, we define an approach based on best practices to support web accessibility, and incorporate new technological advances in mobility to provide a solution that complements the current transportation model. Problems of adapting existing web content, and end-user customizability are addressed. Preliminary evaluation includes feedback received from the blind community, and consultation with small-scale transit authorities. We believe that the most effective solution, in terms of cost and user satisfaction, will rely on ever-pervasive wireless internet connectivity, accessible web services, and adaptive mobile devices.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.4 INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS

Additional Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.4 COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY
      K.4.2 Social Issues

Keywords:
accessibility, mobile devices, mobile web, public transportation