Access Issues in the Development of Technologies and Inclusive Strategies

ARCHES aimed to create more inclusive cultural environments particularly for those with differences and difficulties associated with perception, memory, cognition and communication. It attempted to achieve this through in-depth research analysis and the development of innovative applications, functionalities and experiences based on the reuse and redevelopment of these digital resources. During analysis of the fieldwork for ARCHES, usability was amongst the most significant issue for participants involved in ARCHES. It was also the issue that caused most frustration, particularly when technologies were either not usable, took too long to work or were not compatible with the platforms they were loaded onto. At their best, however, the most usable technologies appeared to give the participants confidence during visits to galleries and provoked discussions and a community feel amongst the group.