36 CFR Part 1193 Telecommunications Act (Section 255) Accessibility Guidelines - Preamble

Efforts to maximize benefits

Both large and small manufacturers will be among the beneficiaries of the Telecommunications Act and these guidelines by virtue of the expanding market for accessible telecommunication products. The Electronic Industries Foundation, in its "Resource Guide for Accessible Design of Consumer Electronics", 1996, notes "Today, one factor contributing to market share is the increasing number of potential customers who experience functional limitations as a result of aging or disabling conditions.... While no product can be readily used by everyone, accessible design can impact market size and market share through consideration of the functional needs of all consumers, including those who experience functional limitations as a result of aging or disabling conditions." A National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) survey also indicates that people with disabilities are potentially an untapped market for the telecommunications industry. As accessibility is incorporated into new products they will be easier to use by the broadest audience possible.