Tactile maps are a breakthrough that grants blind or visually impaired people an easy means to comprehend their surroundings. Designed with raised features and braille, these maps can skillfully bridge the gap between the navigation of sighted and non-sighted people, fostering accessibility and inclusivity. This article explores the benefits, applications, and impact of tactile maps..
Tactile Maps and Braille: Balancing Accessibility and Practicality
Creating accessible maps for individuals with visual impairments is a complex process. When designing tactile maps, we need to carefully consider how to best integrate braille to convey information effectively without sacrificing practicality and efficiency. This post explores the challenges and solutions involved in using braille on tactile maps, drawing from our design experience. (more…)
Book review, Crooked Paths Made Straight: A Journey Across the World with a Blind Teacher
I recently finished reading Crooked Paths Made Straight by Isabelle L.D. Grant, and it’s a book that has really stayed with me. It’s not just a travelogue; it’s a deeply personal account of a blind teacher’s journey around the world in 1959 and 1960, and it offers a unique window into a time that feels..
Why do drive-through ATMs have braille?
Drive-through ATMs with Braille buttons have long perplexed many, giving rise to questions, jokes, and urban legends. After all, blind individuals don't drive, so why would there be Braille on machines explicitly designed for drivers? As it turns out, the presence of Braille is based on a combination of practical, legal, and manufacturing reasons. This..
Should I Add Braille to My Business Card?
In an increasingly inclusive business landscape, the question of whether to add braille to business cards has become relevant for many professionals. While a significant portion of the global population won't directly benefit from braille business cards, their importance extends beyond the visually impaired community. As businesses strive to stand out, resonate more deeply with..