Advancing Accessibility in Today’s Hybrid Workplace
As remote work grows in popularity, employers are searching for new ways to enhance employee training and connection. One emerging solution is extended reality (XR) technology, which includes augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).
Also known as “immersive technologies,” these innovations are part of a new kind of personal computing. XR tools help people interact with digital content that surrounds them in both physical and virtual spaces. Employers are increasingly discovering that XR technologies can enhance hybrid work environments by creating experiences that feel more engaging and realistic than those offered by traditional two-dimensional computing technologies.
While XR technologies show great promise for the workplace, it is vital that they be inclusive and accessible for all workers, including those with disabilities. That means considering how the technologies will be used by people with diverse needs, backgrounds, cultures and abilities before purchasing.
To help, the ODEP-funded Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT) created the Inclusive XR & Hybrid Work Toolkit. Designed for employers of all sizes, the Toolkit helps organizations understand the value of using inclusive XR technologies in hybrid work environments and how to procure accessible XR for their workplace. The toolkit also explores tips for using immersive technologies in ways that include all employees equally.
Learn more about PEAT and access the free toolkit at peatworks.org/inclusive-xr-toolkit.