In recent years, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace has ushered in advancements and drawbacks in productivity, efficiency, and collaboration. Among the many benefits that AI technologies offer are the ability to make workplaces more accessible for disabled employees and customers. By addressing challenges related to communication, mobility, and more, AI can help the professional landscape become a more equitable and inclusive space.
When you think about AI tools, you probably think about ChatGPT. But this isn’t the only way, or even the primary way, that AI can be used to help with accessibility. There are many speech-to-text software programs that help convert spoken language into text in real-time, which helps those with hearing impairments follow meetings and conversations. Additionally, there are many text-to-speech software programs, like screen readers, which convert written text into spoken speech, making digital content more accessible to those with visual impairments.
AI has also played a pivotal role in enhancing physical accessibility for those with mobility challenges. AI-powered robotics, for example, can help employees retrieve items, deliver documents, move around the office, and so much more. AI-powered wheelchairs can navigate complex environments, giving users greater independence. Even voice-controlled devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri are forms of AI, helping with commonplace tasks like scheduling meetings, making grocery lists, and controlling lights.
While these examples of AI in the workplace have and will continue to improve accessibility, we must also consider it’s challenges and shortcomings. Not all AI tools are themselves accessible, and many have implicit biases built into their algorithms. Not only that, but often AI may claim to do more than it can realistically achieve. For example, there are AI widgets and overlays that claim to make websites accessible. Unfortunately, these do not pass WCAG or Section 508 compliance, meaning that the websites they claim to make accessible are, unfortunately, not.
AI is revolutionizing and improving accessibility in the workplace in many ways – even going so far as to empower disabled employees to contribute their skills and talents fully. But it also has its drawbacks and limitations. We should take care to avoid becoming fully reliant on these new advancements in technology. As technology continues to advance, the potential is endless for AI and new forms of it to create equitable opportunities for all employees.
To get started making your company or website more accessible, contact Splash Box Marketing at info@splashbox.com or splashbox.com.