20 February 2007

Open source technology has the potential to offer greater levels of accessibility for visually impaired web users, one expert has claimed.

The comments were made by Klaus Knopper, an accessible software developer, speaking at a recent LinuxAsia conference, Indian publication Business Standard reports.

Mr Knopper used case studies to elucidate the ways in which open source can assist users with various special requirements.

Additionally, the expert presented his wife as a case study - a visually impaired web user who conducts e-commerce purchases through accessible portals.

"The trend within the industry is moving away from proprietary software to open systems that increase the speed of developing new features," he remarked.

Mr Knopper also noted some specific web services created for blind and visually impaired users, such as an accessible library which provides from 500 to 1,000 new books each month.

The National Open Centre, a body which aims to promote the use of open source as a beneficial force in the UK, will officially launch in the houses of parliament on February 26th.

© Adfero Ltd

Keep up to date with industry and Nomensa news by signing up to Nomensa newsletters.