As of 2007, it was estimated that nearly 70% of Americans used the Internet. One of the most common reasons for going on line was, and continues to be, email. Email allows us to communicate quickly, easily, and conveniently. But what's the best way to access this widely-used communications tool, if you're visually impaired? That question is a bit more complex. Since every person's computer is different (depending on the type of computer you're using, and the different hardware and software programs you are running), so to are the ways that people access their email while using screen readers or magnifiers.
But there are some standards for each of the major email programs. Lighthouse International has compiled a list of some useful articles to help you navigate your way around the various programs such as Yahoo! Mail, Microsoft Outlook, and Gmail. Do you have your own tips for email users? Add them in the comments section below!
Microsoft Outlook
If you've ever worked in an office environment, chances are you've had experience with Outlook. A part of the Microsoft Office software package, it is one of the most common email programs in the business world. Each version of Outlook has it's own accessibility features, but here are two articles to help get you started:
- Keyboard Shortcuts for Outlook 2007
- Accessibility Features in Outlook 2003
- Outlook 2002 Accessibility Tutorials
AOL Mail
One of the oldest of the email providers. Originally a fee-based service, AOL's web-based email services are now free-of-charge.
Accessibility and Keyboard Shortcuts on AOL Mail
Yahoo! Mail
Yahoo! Mail is one of the most popular free web-based email providers out there. This article provides detailed step-by-step instructions on how to send an email through the Yahoo! system, while using a screen reader.
Gmail
Google - the company that created Gmail - has long advertised it's commitment to accessibility. In this article, Gmail walks the user through it's accessibility features.
Accessibility Information for Gmail's Basic HTML View
These are just 4 of the many different email providers and programs out there. If you have a particular program you're looking for help with, or would like us to add to this article, leave us a comment!
