by Tanner Gers
Even my grandma in her 80’s knows how to use Google maps.
Google’s awesome technology has taken us to the next level with regards to travel instructions, GPS, and knowing where we all want to go. And when I say us, I really mean most of us…
Until now.
Recently, Google incorporated an opportunity for users of this free service to identify which business locations are inclusive of people of different abilities…
Specifically for people with disabilities (PWD)… So PWD know more about the businesses they want to visit.
Let’s say you happen to use a wheelchair, but the business you want to purchase goods or services from doesn’t have accessible bathrooms, ramps, or doorways…
You don’t want to go to a business like that… And you definitely won’t be spending your money there either.
So how did this come about?
What many individuals not in the community – the disability community – know, is that PWD are amongst the most loyal demographic on the planet. Like Cubs fans, Red Sox fans, or Manchester United fans…
We’re always sharing the latest updates, the latest technologies, opportunities, and the businesses that are improving the quality of our lives with one another…
Especially those businesses making a consorted effort to be inclusive of people of all abilities…
Google understands this power and decided to tap into it.
In 2017, Google began giving users the opportunity to answer specific questions about the accessibility of businesses they visited…
And the result?
Over 7 million users answered nearly 500 million questions! In a single year!!!
Like I said… PWD are a powerful, loyal customer base…
#DontDisMyAbility
While Google’s current questions are exclusive to physical accessibility – which is crucial information for people with mobility impairments – they are currently considering adding more questions for people with invisible disabilities like visual and hearing impairments.
And when it happens, you can be sure the MBS AccessAbility blog will be celebrating Google and their continued contributions to the disability community!
Please share this article so everyone knows about what Google is doing to improve the lives of people of ALL abilities!
Read more about Google Maps and accessibility on SearchEngineJournal.com