Technologies note:
blueIRIS is a standards based project that is accessible on any modern computer system that can access the Internet over a broadband connection. Clients require (at this stage) Windows XP or MacOSX 10.4 to access the full range of features. Further details on compatibility will be issued at launch of the service on October 18th 2005.
blueIRIS runs on Mac OSX servers and provides a semi-automated workflow that makes it easy to create a smooth running service. Running within modern browsers, it utilizes the users favourite (preferred) media player.
Work is progressing in the development of a bespoke client application, which overcomes some of the limitations of using browsers. A unique user interface with simplified control will be a feature of blueIRIS in a future release.
During the trials Apple computers have been used among the test group.
Why?
- The Macintosh OS is acknowledged as being stable and easy to use. The project runs without dedicated technical support.
- The Macintosh OS is acknowledged as secure and virtually free from virus issues. This ensures the project can concentrate on what matters.
- Apple has recently made ‘VoiceOver’ available. VoiceOver, an accessibility facility for visually impaired is designed to maximize independence and make Macs operable without the need to see the screen. VoiceOver is free with every Macintosh, resulting in a saving estimated at over £500 over equivalent Windows solutions.
- MacOSX 10.4 provided the inspiration, through its ‘widget technologies’ to the development of a stand alone client for blueIRIS
- Apple Computers and iPods were used on the iBrowse project very successfully.
Appendix:Further Information:
Contact details for blueIRIS:
Email: contact@blueiris.info
WWW: http://www.blueiris.info
Address:
Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre Society for the Blind, Princess Alexandra Home,
Bosworth Place,
Blackpool FY4 1SH Telephone:
01253 405102
Links:
Apple Voiceover: http://www.apple.com/macosx/features/voiceover/
http://www.apple.com/accessibility/voiceover/
Audio support: http://www.apple.com/accessibility/voiceover/manual.html
Supernova screen reader for Windows: http://www.dolphinuk.co.uk/
Jaws screen reader for Windows: http://www.freedomscientific.com/
iBrowse (NLN/NIACE/TrEACL project):
http://www.bfwsb.co.uk/index.htm
http://www.aclearn.net/content_files/acl/pages/content/focus/treacl/
round1/summaries/
band-c/blackpool/final-report-ms-word-231kb.doc.
http://www.apple.com/education/accessibility/disabilities/vision/profiles/interface.html