Here are Accessibility Standards Canada’s standards and funded grants and contributions research related to information and communication technologies. Check here often for new information related to this priority area.
CAN/ASC - EN 301 549:2024 - Accessibility requirements for ICT products and services (EN 301 549:2021, IDT)
There are common areas where people with disabilities may experience barriers to accessibility in information and communication technology products and services. These include, but are not limited to:
The technical Committee on Accessibility Requirements for Information and Communication Technology Products and Services will work towards the adoption in its entirety of the European harmonized standard “EN 301 549, Accessibility requirements for ICT products and services”. The adoption of this standard represents a fundamental step in accessible Canadian procurement advancement.
Jutta Treviranus (Chairperson), Director, Professor, Inclusive Design Research Center, OCAD University
Sambhavi Chandrashekar, (Vice Chairperson), Global Accessibility Lead, D2L Corporation
Abishek Gupta, ML Engineer, RAI Researcher, Founder, Principal Researcher, Montreal AI Ethics Institute, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), BCG Henderson Institute
Alison Paprica, Professor (adjunct) and Senior Fellow, Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto
Anne Jackson, Professor, Seneca College
Clayton Lewis, Professor, University of Colorado
Gary Birch, Executive Director, Neil Squire Society
John Weigelt, CTO Microsoft Canada, Microsoft Canada
John Willis, Senior Advisor, Centre of Excellence for Human Rights & Employee Experience, Ontario Public Service
Julia Stoyanovich, Associate Professor, Director, Tandon School of Engineering NYU
Julianna Rowsell, Senior Product Manager, Product Equity, Adobe
Kate Kalcevich, Head of Accessibility Innovation, Fable
Kave Noori, Artificial Intelligence Policy Officer, European Disability Forum
Lisa Liskovoi, Senior Inclusive Designer and Digital Accessibility Specialist, Inclusive Design Research Center, OCAD University
Lisa Snider, Access Changes Everything
Luna Bengio, Accessibility Consultant and Strategic Advisor
Merve Hickok, Founder, President and Research Director, Aiethicist.org Center for AI and Digital Policy, University of Michigan
Mia Ahlgren, International Disability Rights Policy Officer, Swedish Disability Rights Federation
Nancy McLaughlin, Senior Policy Advisor on Accessibility, Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission
Saeid Molladavoudi, Senior Data Science Advisor, Statistics Canada
CAN-ASC-6.2 Accessible and Equitable Artificial Intelligence SystemsThere are common areas where people with disabilities may experience barriers to accessibility in artificial intelligence systems. These include, but are not limited to:
Jutta Treviranus (Chairperson), Director, Professor, Inclusive Design Research Center, OCAD University
Sambhavi Chandrashekar, (Vice Chairperson), Global Accessibility Lead, D2L Corporation
Abishek Gupta, ML Engineer, RAI Researcher, Founder, Principal Researcher, Montreal AI Ethics Institute, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), BCG Henderson Institute
Alison Paprica, Professor (adjunct) and Senior Fellow, Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto
Anne Jackson, Professor, Seneca College
Clayton Lewis, Professor, University of Colorado
Gary Birch, Executive Director, Neil Squire Society
John Weigelt, CTO Microsoft Canada, Microsoft Canada
John Willis, Senior Advisor, Centre of Excellence for Human Rights & Employee Experience, Ontario Public Service
Julia Stoyanovich, Associate Professor, Director, Tandon School of Engineering NYU
Julianna Rowsell, Senior Product Manager, Product Equity, Adobe
Kate Kalcevich, Head of Accessibility Innovation, Fable
Kave Noori, Artificial Intelligence Policy Officer, European Disability Forum
Lisa Liskovoi, Senior Inclusive Designer and Digital Accessibility Specialist, Inclusive Design Research Center, OCAD University
Lisa Snider, Access Changes Everything
Luna Bengio, Accessibility Consultant and Strategic Advisor
Merve Hickok, Founder, President and Research Director, Aiethicist.org Center for AI and Digital Policy, University of Michigan
Mia Ahlgren, International Disability Rights Policy Officer, Swedish Disability Rights Federation
Nancy McLaughlin, Senior Policy Advisor on Accessibility, Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission
Saeid Molladavoudi, Senior Data Science Advisor, Statistics Canada
Technical guides support organizations on their accessibility journey. They provide informal guidance, information based on recent research, and our recommendations for best practices with accessibility.
Technical guides will help users understand the barriers faced by people with disabilities. They give practical guidance and recommendations to help remove those barriers, and provide users with quick and easy access to important information to improve accessibility features.
Accessible and Equitable Artificial Intelligence Systems
AI systems and the processes, resources, services and tools used to plan, create, implement, maintain and monitor them need to be accessible to people with disabilities. People with disabilities and users of AI systems should be able to be active participants in all stakeholder roles in the AI lifecycle.
Without the possibility of participation of people with disabilities in all AI ecosystem roles, the perspectives of people with disabilities will be absent in essential decisions. Participation of people with disabilities in these roles will result in greater systemic accessibility and equity. Integrating the diverse perspectives of people with disabilities in these roles will also increase innovation, risk detection and risk avoidance.
This research project is completed.
Inclusive Design Research Centre - Ontario College of Art and Design University
This study will look at how artificial intelligence and other technologies affect people with disabilities. The goal is to determine whether these technologies limit or improve their employment opportunities and well-being.
The use of artificial intelligence in employment processes is increasing. The impact of this on people with disabilities needs to be studied. This will ensure everyone is treated equally. It will also ensure that people with disabilities are not excluded from the process as an unintended consequence.
Artificial intelligence can support inclusion. However, it cannot overcome attitudinal barriers. These continue to be the greatest barrier to employment for people with disabilities.
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
Web accessibility of Canadian banking/financial servicesThis research project is completed.
Regroupement des aveugles et amblyopes du Québec (RAAQ)
This study will look at the online services that Quebec’s financial institutions offer through their websites. It will gather information on any barriers that people with disabilities face when accessing and using these services. The goal will be to develop best practices for providing online services that are accessible to all clients.
The banking sector continues to innovate and expand its online presence. It is important that accessibility needs are considered so that online banking services are available to everyone.
Some platforms use interactive components that are not programmed for accessibility. Having people with disabilities test these aspects could help identify barriers and improve accessibility.
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
Informing Standards for Acoustics and the Built EnvironmentThis research project is completed.
This study will look at the impact of the acoustic environment on people with disabilities. It will explore ways to reduce noise. It will also examine assistive listening technologies. The goal is to contribute to the removal and prevention of acoustics barriers.
Finding the right balance between the built environment and assistive listening devices is important. This will improve access and increase the comfort of people with disabilities.
“Sound and noise can impact the experiences of people with different types of disabilities.”
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
Developing Recommendations for the Standardization of Wayfinding TechnologiesThis research project is completed.
University Health Network
This study will review existing wayfinding technologies. It will also look at the barriers faced by people with disabilities in using these technologies. The goal of this study is to inform future wayfinding standards.
Wayfinding technologies guide people through the built environment. It is important to ensure they are accessible to people with all types of disabilities.
“It is important for people with disabilities to be able to find their way on their own in different environments.”
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
The Future of Work: Equitable Digital SystemsThis research project is completed.
Inclusive Design Research Centre - Ontario College of Art and Design University
This study will review the digital tools and software used in federally regulated workplaces that present barriers to employees with disabilities.
These tools need to be accessible to improve employment opportunities for people with all types of disabilities.
“For people with disabilities to be successful at work, it is important for them to have access to digital tools.”
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
Usability of Digital Information and Information Technology for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
This research project is completed.
People with disabilities face barriers when accessing and participating in the digital world. This study will make recommendations on accessibility standards for information and communication technologies. The goal is to remove barriers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The digital world is becoming increasingly integrated with our daily lives. Technologies are needed to ensure people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can access that world.
Guidelines must be written in plain language and provided in accessible formats.
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
Visualizing Accessibility Standards: A Demonstration with CSA B651This research project is completed.
Visual reference materials and tools can be helpful for presenting technical documentation. This study will look at different methods of visual communication and how such methods can make it easier to apply accessibility standards.
Using visual aids to present technical information can improve information sharing. It can also increase understanding for all stakeholders.
“Visual aids help the reader understand, especially since not everyone feels prepared to interpret and apply accessibility standards accurately.”
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
Research and Inform Standards for Next-Generation 911This research project is completed.
Neil Squire Society
This study will review emerging technologies that enable accessible communication. This information will be used to optimize the accessibility of the upcoming Next-generation 911. (Next-generation 911 is to integrate new services that will allow users to send and receive text, photos, and video as well as make voice calls from mobile devices.)
Next-Generation 911 needs to be accessible to people with all types of disabilities.
Researchers surveyed 493 people with disabilities. The results indicate they would prefer a 911 service that combines live video with a phone call.
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
Developing Recommendations and Guidelines for Augmentative and Alternative Communication to Enable Persons with Motor, Communication, and Speech Impairment to Participate in Employment
This research project is completed.
Augmentative and alternative communication devices make it possible to communicate in ways other than speech. The goal of this study is to determine the requirements for such devices to enable people with motor control and communication disabilities to participate in employment.
This research will help improve access to employment opportunities for people with motor control and communication disabilities.
“Each person has the right to a voice of their own and a right to be heard.”
If you would like a full copy of the report, please email us.
Ensuring access and understanding of public information for people with disabilitiesThis research project is completed.
Université du Québec à Rimouski
People with disabilities face barriers to accessing and understanding online information. This study will focus on the barriers that hinder access to legal and communication services online. It will assess best practices and recommend ways to develop the next generation of model accessibility standards as they relate to communication and technology.
Governments have a responsibility to communicate with all Canadians. They must also ensure equitable access to information.
“People who are Deaf or hard of hearing want personal control over how they choose to access information.”
If you would like a full copy of the report,
Understanding User Perspectives of the Speed, Accuracy, and Delay Trade-off for Captioning Fast-Paced Media Content
This research project is still underway.
This study will determine user preferences for live captioning of fast-paced live media. This will be based on feedback from the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
Engagement with user groups is essential. This is needed to ensure that live captioning meets the needs of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
A Study of Accessible and Inclusive Virtual and Blended Service Provision Models for the Federal Public Service and Federally Regulated Industries in Post-COVID-19 Canada
This research project is still underway.
University of Ontario Institute of Technology
This study will develop recommendations on service provision models for the federal public service. These will also be aimed at federally regulated industries. The goal is to ensure the services these bodies provide are accessible to people with sensory and cognitive disabilities.
People with sensory and cognitive disabilities need improved access to services.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Towards Better Accessibility in Communications: Identifying the Barriers Faced by People with Aphasia in Financial Institutions
This research project is still underway.
Association des personnes intéressées à l’aphasie et a l’accident vasculaire cérébral
People with aphasia and other communication disabilities experience barriers when accessing banking services. This includes services provided by staff and when using banking machines. The goal is to identify these barriers and how to remove them.
Banking services need to be accessible to people with communication disabilities.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Accessible and Explainable Artificial Intelligence in Decision-MakingThis research project is still underway.
Canadian National Institute for the Blind
This study will develop best practices. The goal is to integrate accessibility considerations when making decisions related to artificial intelligence.
Decisions are increasingly being made based on artificial intelligence. The impact of this on people with disabilities needs to be studied. This will ensure that everyone is treated equally.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Quiet waves: Seeing Communication Barriers in Inclusive DesignThis research project is still underway.
Canadian Association of the Deaf
This study will identify best practices in communication that help remove barriers faced by the Deaf community. It will also include a review of technology-based solutions. This review will look at both policy-based and cost-sharing solutions.
People who are Deaf and use sign language must have equitable access to communication. This will enable them to connect with others wherever they go.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Responsible Conduct of Research Through an Accessibility and Inclusion LensThis research project is still underway.
Canadian National Institute for the Blind
This study will identify barriers to accessible and inclusive research. It will also propose guidelines and best practices to prevent such barriers or reduce their impact. This will include recommendations for making research tools and software more accessible.
More people with disabilities need to be involved in research, both as participants and researchers. The lived experience of people with disabilities is important to understanding barriers and improving accessibility research.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Barrier-Free: A Study of Gaps and Best Practices in Information and Communication Technology Accessibility Solutions
This research project is still underway.
New Brunswick Community College
This research will support accessibility standards for information and communication technologies. The work will include assessing these technologies, identifying gaps in accessibility, and making recommendations. The study will also explore how these technologies can improve accessibility within the built environment and transportation.
Information and communication technologies are essential to our everyday lives. They need to be accessible to all Canadians.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Accessible Canada, Accessible World: Co-creating a Global Standards CommunityThis research project is still underway.
Inclusive Design Research Centre - Ontario College of Art and Design University
This project will build resources for research informed by the experience of people with disabilities. These resources will be created through in-person and online events.
Including the lived experience and expertise of people with disabilities allows for a more inclusive approach to accessibility. Increased accessibility can be achieved when the people who face barriers are included in the research and standards development process.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Developing Principles, Guidance, and Good Practices for Community-Based Emancipatory Research on Accessibility Standards
This research project is still underway.
Council of Canadians with Disabilities
This study will identify how to add the voices and lived experience of people with disabilities to community-based research. This includes the experiences of those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
The lived experience of people with disabilities is important to research. In the past, disability-related research has been “about” disability; it has not focused on the thoughts or experiences of people with disabilities. Including the perspectives of people with disabilities will inform research.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Enabling Independence: Assessing Activities of Daily Living to Inform Safety Standards for Built Environments
This research project is still underway.
This study will create a set of best practices for integrating technology into built environments, such as buildings and other structures. This will help people with disabilities be more independent.
Built environments that support independence can improve the quality of life of people with disabilities. It can also increase their participation in the community.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Accessibility of Canadian Emergency Alerts: Study of Unmet NeedsThis research project is still underway.
Neil Squire Society
This study will look at ways to make emergency alert systems in Canada accessible to people with disabilities.
All Canadians need to receive emergency alerts at the same time. In some cases, a person with a disability may need more time and resources to respond to an emergency.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Creating Inclusive Employment: Empowering Youth with Disabilities Through Inclusive, Accessible Skills Development
This research project is still underway.
March of Dimes Canada
Youth with disabilities need support to access employment. This study will focus on understanding how to better provide this support.
Youth with disabilities may experience increased barriers as they transition from school to work. By removing barriers, these youth will have a better chance to make this transition successfully.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Brain Injury and Accessibility of the Electoral Process in CanadaThis research project is still underway.
Brain Injury Canada
People with brain injuries experience barriers to participating in election-related activities. This study will identify ways to remove and prevent these barriers.
Every Canadian has the right to vote and be involved in the electoral process.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Regulating the Digital DomainThis research project is still underway.
Inclusive Design Research Centre - Ontario College of Art and Design University
This study will research the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from accessing digital technology and resources.
Technology is part of our everyday lives. Equal access to technology allows people with disabilities to experience the same benefits and supports as everyone else.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Virtual Communication ProjectThis research project is still underway.
Wavefront Centre for Communication Accessibility
This study will identify the factors that make it harder or easier for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Deaf/Blind to communicate. This includes communication that takes place in person, virtually (online), or both (hybrid environment).
Communication is essential for all Canadians, including people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Deaf/Blind. Being able to communicate enables them to participate meaningfully in society.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Advancing Accessibility Standards through Inuit QaujimajatuqangitThis research project is still underway.
Nunavummi Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Society
This study will gather information on how accessibility standards are used in Nunavut. It will identify barriers faced by people with disabilities from an Indigenous perspective.
A better understanding of Indigenous perspectives on disability and accessibility is needed. This will make future standards more relevant to Indigenous communities.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Accessibility Futurisms: Analyzing Access through a Disability Justice ModalityThis research project is still underway.
The Youth Project Society of Nova Scotia
A disability justice framework centres the experiences of excluded groups. This study will explore the intersecting experiences of young 2SLGBTQIA+ people with disabilities. It will study the increased barriers they may face in their communities. The study will include recommendations to increase accessibility. These will focus on buildings, outdoor spaces, programs and services, communication, and transportation.
Everyone deserves equal access and support within their community.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Investigating the Development of Accessibility Standards in Canada and the Inclusion/Exclusion of Episodic Disabilities
This research project is still underway.
Some disabilities come and go. These are known as episodic disabilities. This study will look at how accessibility standards can address the barriers faced by people with episodic disabilities.
Most people think of disabilities as visible, permanent, and unchanging. Episodic disabilities challenge that belief.
There is a need for more focused action to address a broader range of conditions. Increasing our understanding of the types of episodic disabilities will help spur such action.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Mapping Representation and Barriers to Participation by People with Disabilities in the Screen-Based Media and Broadcasting Sectors
This research project is still underway.
Disability Screen Office/Office de la représentation des personnes handicapées à l’écran
Some disabilities come and go. These are known as episodic disabilities. This study will look at how accessibility standards can address the barriers faced by people with episodic disabilities.
The screen industry produces content for cinemas, television, and streaming platforms. This study will identify the barriers that people with disabilities who work in this sector face in Canada. This includes those who work on or off screen. The study will also propose guidelines on how to:
These guidelines will be aimed at the entire screen-based sector in Canada.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
Accessible Communications of the Needs of Persons with DisabilitiesThis research project is still underway.
Parametric Human Project
Virtually all building standards have accessibility requirements. This study will show how these requirements can be improved to support the planning and construction of buildings.
Building standards are used by architects, engineers, and construction workers. The project team will propose solutions to help these users better understand accessibility requirements. People with disabilities will test the proposed solutions, such as best practices and guidelines, to ensure they are practical.
Accessibility standards and guidelines need to be understood by the people who apply them. However, some accessibility requirements do not clearly state how they are intended to be used. Having clearer standards will help create safer and more accessible spaces. This will help people with disabilities.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
A roadmap for upgrading existing transit accessibility standards and their implementationThis research project is still underway.
Council of Canadians with Disabilities / Conseil des Canadiens avec déficiences (CCD)
This study will identify travel barriers faced by people with disabilities. It will include travel by air, train, inter-provincial bus and ferry, and transportation within terminals. It will recommend changes to the current accessibility standards used in the federally regulated transportation industry.
People with disabilities often experience travel barriers. All modes of travel should be accessible to all Canadians.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.
All Standards With Us: Integrating Accessibility and Disability Inclusion in All StandardsThis research project is still underway.
Ontario College of Art and Design University
This study will identify barriers that prevent people with disabilities from helping to create accessibility standards. The research will be used to develop recommendations and practical steps on how to include people with disabilities when developing these standards.
Accessibility is often not considered when standards are developed. When accessibility is considered during this process, barriers can be prevented.
Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.