Staying on top of accessibility updates, features, news, and resources is no easy task, even here at the AT Help Desk where we do our absolute best to cover everything we can, there’s just so much accessible content and information out there that it’s impossible to keep track of absolutely everything related to accessibility. Thankfully, most companies who deal with accessible devices do a great job of providing information and resources related to those products. That is especially true for Apple’s excellent accessibility page, which we have discussed in previous e-bulletins (new window).
Today however, we are going to look at Apple’s chief competitor Microsoft, and we are going to see how their newly redesigned accessibility page stacks up against the competition. And with Windows products and Microsoft 365 being so widely used within the New Brunswick school system, this information will be useful to just about any parent, teacher, or student with accessibility needs.
Now, let’s take a closer look at what’s currently available:
Accessibility Training Essentials – There’s a lot to look at here, but we suggest you start by taking Microsoft’s free accessibility fundamentals training. The training takes just over two hours to complete, and it serves as a fantastic primer for all things accessible. The content here is beginner-level, so if you’re already familiar with accessible technology, it may be too “base-level” for you, but for anyone who is just being introduced to these concepts, this training is a great place to start. Besides that, this section gives you access to a wide variety of lessons, videos, and training that ranges from basic to advanced in scope. There is a LOT to look at here!
Accessible Accessories – Curious about what kind of accessible accessories Microsoft has on offer? This section allows you to browse through a complete catalogue of Microsoft-manufactured devices. Keep in mind that 3rd party devices are not included here.
Explore Accessible Products and Services – Here you can browse accessible products and services by category. These categories include Vision, Hearing, Neurodiversity, Learning, Mobility, and Mental Health. It’s worth noting that compared to Apple’s accessibility website, Microsoft has actually added to and refined the categories of accessibility quite a bit, with the addition of the “mental health” and “neurodiversity” categories being most noticeable. Not only that, but the website itself is much more accessible than Apple’s beautifully designed but technically not as accessible accessibility site.
The Disability Answer Desk – This section not only includes extensive guides, but also links to forums, chats, guides, contact information, and more. If you have a question that’s specific to Microsoft accessibility, it might be worth reaching out to them, especially if you have a question outside of the AT Help Desks hours and you have an urgent question.
Accessibility Product Resources – Check this section of the site for a generalized collection of Microsoft accessibility related resources.
Latest Accessibility News – For news and blogs specifically related to Microsoft accessibility, this is the place to look!
To visit Microsoft’s re-designed Accessibility page, click here (new window).
I’m genuinely thankful to find such a special place in the vastness of the internet.