Handshake Between Content and Readers: Testing Mainstream Reading Systems

Handshake between content

& readers

Testing mainstream reading systems DAISY Consortium

Librarians in 1994: Tech savvy not mandatory

Librarians in 2014: Big changesNeed to know e-readers, apps, devices,

platforms

Why should we test?

• New applications are released every day• Challenging to follow all new developments• Specialized reading systems are created with a specific user

group in mind (http://www.daisy.org/tools-services)• Mainstream reading systems do not guarantee accessibility• Legal reasons • Social responsibility

Reviews and research

• RNIB: eBook Reader reviewshttp://www.rnib.org.uk/information-everyday-living-reading/ebook-reader-reviews• DIAGRAM Center grid (software and hardware)http://diagramcenter.org/research/ebook-software.html

We provide

• An extensive set of tests • A documented process for executing the tests and

compiling results• An opportunity to participate in creating helpful guidance

for students, accessibility specialists, librarians, developers, content creators

Collaborative effort: DAISY Consortium / TFA Consulting

All users should be able to consume the content of a

document by:• adjusting the display such as adjusting font size and color

combination

• reading the text with screen readers or self-voicing text-to-speech (TTS) applications

• reading the text with a refreshable Braille display

• reading with assistive technologies designed for persons with dyslexia or other disabilities.

Crowdsourcing? • By crowdsourcing accessibility evaluations of

mainstream reading systems in a systematic way and making these evaluations publicly accessible, developers and device manufacturers can be advised to make specific improvements to allow access to information for all. • Digital content, reading systems and distribution

platforms all need to be designed to be accessible for everyone. All users will win.

Support digital inclusion = improve literacy

• By improving mainstream reading systems we support digital inclusion and strengthen ties to the communities we serve.• We also contribute to the development of new

markets for accessible products and services leading to the improvement of literacy around the globe.

How can I get started?

• Go to epubtest.org• Select / click on EPUB 3 support grid to review test results• Instructions for evaluators: http://epubtest.org/testsuite/• Check out current tests• Contact info@bisg.org with questions• Accessibility testing: Prospective moderators, evaluators and

testers send an email to Kerscher@montana.com• Still work in progress! Send your comments and suggestions.