Cities Unlocked

Many people with sight loss are aware of the potential of technology to enhance their independence and feel that they need to work to stay up to date. There is a preference for individual pieces of technology that solve particular problems rather than large multi-functional systems. Many people are worried about becoming reliant on a device which may run out of battery or otherwise fail.

Implications:
If the scenario of use around navigational technology is not carefully considered there is a risk that such technology might not be used by the people it is aimed at. In a technology focused on solving a specific but particularly painful problem is more likley to be adopted than a larger system that people may feel they are becoming dependent on unnecessarily.

Opportunities:
Work developing navigational technology should be done with an awareness of the scenario in which it will be used and in consultation with a wide range of people with sight loss.