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The next question: Is it necessary to use a product or piece of equipment?
Lots of products are on the market to assist people with disabilities.
Common terms used to refer to such products are Assistive Technology
(AT), ergonomic and independent living aids. Some products may be
specifically designed for people with disabilities while others are
not but can still be used as an accommodation.
When acquiring a product or piece of equipment, it is important to
consider compatibility issues, training, technical support and maintenance.
Here is an example of a situation and solution involving a product
or piece of equipment.
The situation: A data entry clerk was having difficulty viewing printed
materials and her computer screen.
The solution: She was provided screen magnification software and
a Closed Circuit TV (CCTV).
If the use of a product or piece of equipment is successful, then
move on to Step 5.
If it is not possible to use a product or piece of equipment or if
additional accommodations are needed, continue with the next question
in step 2. The next question: Is it necessary to modify or design
a product?
Sometimes a product that is needed just doesn't exist or meet the
needs of the employee. An employer may be able to make modifications
"in-house" or it may be necessary to contact a rehabilitation
engineer or other professional to modify or design a product to enable
an individual to perform the essential functions of the job. Here
is an example of a situation and solution involving modifying or designing
a product.
The situation: A cookie maker with a learning disability, dyscalcula,
was having difficulty counting 12 cookies at a time.
The solution: A template was designed to hold 12 cookies. Once the
holes were filled, the baking sheet was ready for the oven.
If modifying or designing a product is successful, then move on to
step 5. If it is not possible to modify or design a product or if
additional accommodations are needed, continue with the next question
in step 2. The next question: Is it necessary to obtain a service?
Sometimes a product or modification to a job or work environment
may not be the accommodation solution. In some cases, it may be necessary
to obtain a service. Services can include providing a qualified interpreter
or reader, contracting for Braille transcription services or performing
an ergonomic assessment. Here is an example of a situation and solution
involving obtaining a service.
The situation: A teacher who is blind could not read the printed
employee and student handbook.
The solution: The employer used a Braille transcription service to
produce the handbook in Braille.
If answering the questions in step 2, Perform Needs Assessment, resulted
in a successful accommodation, implement the accommodation and move
on to step 5, Monitoring Accommodations. If not, then continue on
to the next step, Explore Alternative Placement Options. Tracie Saab
will now discuss the final 3 steps in the accommodation process.
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