Computer Accessibility Services Include:
On-Site, Hands-On Evaluation with a Mobile Lab: Ficocelli Design has a mobile computer lab that they can bring on site to provide an evaluation of the need for any adaptive computer equipment or software. This evaluation could involve the demonstration and trial by the client of various adaptive hardware and software such as:
- Keyboard alternatives such as: an on-screen keyboard, BAT one-handed keyboard, and Intellikeys membrane style keyboard.
- Mouse alternatives such as: a head pointer, No-Hands mouse, trackball, and voice mouse.
- Voice input such as: Dragon Naturally Speaking
- Learning and cognitive disabilities software and technology such as: Kurzweil 3000, Freedom Scientific WYNN, or the Live Scribe Pulse Pen
- Speech output software such as: Freedom Scientific OpenBook
- Screen magnification such as: ZoomText
Client Training on All Adaptive Software and Hardware: Appropriate, effective, and adequate training are critical to the success of any individual endeavoring to use adaptive hardware or software with a computer. This is especially the case if the individual is not fully versed in the use of a computer in general. But in any case, if adequate training is not provided to the individual to help them get to the point where they can independently and successfully utilize the adaptive hardware or software to be functional in accessing and using all of the aspects of the computer required for their needs, then it is highly likely the money will have been ill spent. There have been numerous instances when training has been insufficient or not done properly in customizing it to the learning style, retention ability, and cognition of the individual, where the technology has simply ended up on a shelf unused. Ficocelli Design places a strong emphasis on thorough training of an individual and setting up a unique training plan which allows the necessary time to become proficient and independent, meets the needs of their distinctive learning style, their ability to assimilate information, and the difficulties of the particular technology being utilized.
Computer Specifications and Bids: In some situations, a need arises for a new computer system in order to facilitate the ability to use the adaptive computer hardware or software that is best suited to create a functional access means for a given individual. In the event that a new computer is required, Ficocelli Design can put together the full specifications for the entire computer system necessary to operate all of the recommended hardware and software. In addition, bids can be solicited for the system from reputable vendors with whom Ficocelli Design has had excellent service experiences. It should be noted however, that Ficocelli Design has no business association with any vendor of equipment or contractors whatsoever, so as to avoid any possibility of a conflict of interest. In this way we maintain the objectivity that our clients have relied on from us. Our business is a consulting business and not a sales business. In the event that it is necessary for a product to be purchased by Ficocelli Design for a client, it would simply be done in a pass-through billing scenario, where the end user or the funding source would simply be invoiced the exact cost to us for the item. This would be done for convenience only and as requested by the individual being served or the funding source.
Hardware and Software Set-up, Configuration, and Testing: In order to ensure that the adaptive equipment and computer systems that are recommended for an individual function properly prior to delivery, Ficocelli Design will do a complete system check at our office. A system check includes the set-up of all hardware and peripherals, installation, and testing of all recommended hardware and software, activation of Windows & other software requiring activation, testing hardware components, clean-up of the Windows Desktop, downloading, updating and installation of files for software applications and burning those updated files to a CD for future use, and running the initial anti-virus scans and adware scans to ensure that the system is as fully functional for the end user prior to delivery. In addition, we create a set of recovery DVDs that will facilitate a restoration of the system in the event of a catastrophic failure, so that it can be returned to the condition it was in when the system was initially delivered to the end user.
On-Site Delivery and Set-Up: Once the system has been tested, it is delivered to the client, set up at their location, all components are positioned correctly and any workstation elements that were also recommended can be implemented at this time. Typically, an initial training of the new hardware or software is provided on this date.
Ergonomic Computer Workstation Design and Specifications: As is often the case, when an evaluation is completed for access to a computer, there are ergonomic workstation issues that are discerned as well, that need to be addressed or rectified. This could include recommendations for something as simple as a wrist rest, or as elaborate as an entire new workstation and ergonomic seating. Having had many years of experience as a designer in the commercial furniture industry, Mr. Ficocelli is well versed in the manufacturers, available equipment, and the fundamentals of an office workstation environment to assist with the evaluation, recommendations, and implementation of any recommended workstation modifications.
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