Development of a Global Access Information Navigation (GAIN) for Persons Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision

The Sendero Group, pioneers in accessible way finding for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, proposes to develop a Global Access Information Navigator (GAIN) system. This system will be designed to collect, enhance and share location-based information to empower an individual who is blind or visually impaired with relevant information for use in determining the optimal sequence to utilize efficiently available public transportation options. After years of work and billions spent on the physical accessibility of public transportation, increased numbers of people with disabilities should feel confident using public transportation. The lack of accessible information essential to pre-trip planning likely remains a significant barrier. A successful Phase I project will produce a dynamic and accessible public transportation information device that extends beyond the crucial step of software development for existing devices and adds new personalization capabilities. For example, rather than having to ask a passerby when bus 12 leaves and where to buy the ticket, the user’s accessible GPS device will present everything that is associated with that bus terminal. With the press of a couple of buttons, the bus schedule will be displayed and the terminal layout described to the user. The Sendero Group considers these possibilities as only representing a glimpse into the potential of this technology.