The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how CILs and SILCs are supporting consumers and meeting the needs of their communities. As most centers aim to provide all services remotely during this time, the initial transition of appropriately utilizing technology can be a challenge.<\/p>\n
However, the use of technology often results in employees being more productive and focused by working from home[1]<\/a>, and consumers who have difficulties accessing in-person services because of mobility, communication, accessibility, transportation, or other barriers also benefit from virtual services[2]<\/a>.<\/p>\n Despite the advantages of technology, the greatest obstacle can be knowing which technology platform or application best meets the needs of your organization. To do this, you will need to identify the factors that are important to your organization to determine the requirements the technology needs to meet. Why is this important to do? Because selecting the wrong technology can lead to additional expenditures, loss of time, decreased productivity, and the inability to effectively provide services.<\/p>\n However, before determining the factors used to assess technology, consider involving all individuals who will be using the technology to provide feedback and to create buy-in.<\/em> This is vital especially when selecting a technology that consumers will utilize since their preferred technology use and limitations must be considered. Many CILs and other CBOs have conducted technology assessments with consumers. An example from The Ability Center of Greater Toledo can be found here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Factors Commonly Considered When Selecting Technology<\/em><\/p>\n Please note that your organization may select different factors of importance such as reliability, technical support, integration and interoperability, etc. However, regardless of the factors selected, these broad categories should be used to help map out the specific features needed for each factor considered.<\/p>\n What is the intended use of the technology? What is the purpose of having the platform or application? Some of the different uses of platforms and applications can be:<\/p>\n Some platforms may be used for multiple purposes such as meetings with your staff and meetings with consumers. However, the purpose of the platform may change your organization\u2019s specific requirements for the technology. For example, when considering security, a telehealth platform used to provide care coordination services will need to be HIPAA-compliance; whereas, a video conferencing platform used for staff meetings will not.<\/p>\n An important consideration is to select programs or platforms that are accessible for all users. Understanding your staff and consumer\u2019s specific needs to access technology is vital, which can be achieved by asking consumers and staff for their feedback. When working with and\/or providing services to individuals in need of accommodations, never assume the accommodations they will need. Ask them.<\/p>\n Many platforms have accessibility features, but they may not work for everyone or may not be sufficient. The Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT) developed a website to guide organizations in selecting accessible platforms<\/a>.<\/p>\n IL organizations often rely on closed captioning for meetings and trainings. Automatic captioning is often available, but it is recommended that organizations check the quality before use. Questions to consider when assessing platforms are:<\/p>\n Below is a comparison of captioning capabilities for platforms created by ACS Captions:<\/p>\n\n
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Purpose\/Intended Use<\/h2>\n
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Accessibility<\/h2>\n
Captioning<\/h3>\n
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