INTERACT'99 Workshop : Making DesignersAware of Existing Guidelinesfor AccessibiliO~ Position paper for the IFIP TC.13 INTERACT'99 Workshop: Making Designers Aware of Existing Guidelines for Accessibility (31 August 1999) Nokia©: Adding the Human Touch Micaela T u c k e r - K i n n e y Nokia Mobile Phones Dallas Product Creation Center 6000 Connection Dr. Irving, TX 75039, USA e-mail: micaela.tucker-kinney@nokia.c0m The American Telecommunications Act of 1996 changed the meaning of access to technology. Suddenly, anyone could enter the telecommunications business. For those to whom even a phone call was an infrequent occasion, a new world was opened. Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act reflects the US Congress' recognition that individuals with disabilities need improved access to telecommunications technology. Additionally it has brought attention to a significant market. Passage of this law presents a tremendous opportunity to Nokia and all telecommunications equipment providers. Beyond the significant merits of broadening access to telecommunications service and equipment for people with disabilities, enhancing our accessible product line also offers this industry the opportunity to reach a developing global market of almost 750 million people with disabilities. Because of the broad scope of this legislation, each of our employees is
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