Access to Communication

Abstract

This master thesis shows the process of the design and implementation of new products and services for blind and deaf people. In the analysis phase interviews are done with blind and deaf to gain insight into the targetgroup regarding their needs and problems. Focus is on problems with mobile communication or that can be solved with mobile communication. In the development phase business model drawing is done with many internal and external stakeholders to develop a feasible business model. Finally the new product and service are implemented and continue their development throughout the implentation phase. The final product is a spoken manual that helps blind people to unpack, install and use their iPhone 4S and the standard VoiceOver functionality. The service is a complete sign language communication package for deaf, with a unique subscription, a smart phone and dedicated software that allows deaf users to have a mobile sign language conversation or have an interpreter with them via the mobile phone.