Gravitywell Meets: Ian Brooks

In this series, Hugo chats with some of the tech world’s most exciting startups and services. 

This special extended interview focuses on accessibility in tech, as Hugo meets Ian Brooks, a Senior Software Developer who is visually impaired. Ian has advised the likes of Microsoft and the UK Government and uses his voice to campaign on behalf of people with disabilities.

Watch the full interview:

On what more can be done to improve accessibility in tech:

"It’s all well and good having a really fancy website, but if some people can’t use it because you’ve not built it to be accessible, then one, you’re potentially losing business, and two, you’re potentially breaking the law."

 

iPhone vs Android:

"The accessibility on an iPhone is superb. You’ll find that a lot of visually impaired people gravitate straight to iPhone rather than Android."

 

Read the BBC article: Man 'denied job interview due to guide dog' lands new role

 

On the challenges visibly impaired people face using tech:

"The problems using tech can be very personal. Organisations like Apple and Microsoft can give you accessibility options but it's not a case of one size fits all. The trick is to figure out what works best for you within the options provided."

 

How Covid has levelled the employment playing field for people with disabilities:

"Up until a couple of years ago, a lot of employers said working from home is never going to happen. Working remotely helps disabled people because the most accessible office is the one you create for yourself."

A huge thank you to Ian for being interviewed.

Learn more about the RNIB and Somerset Sight.