Vocational Product Support

VPS is the provision of a support service that can be provided for either existing users of Assistive Technologies (AT) or potential users of AT. AT can be in the form of client based third party software applications such as Windows (Sticky/Filter Keys etc), JAWS, Dolphin, Dragon Naturally Speaking or Zoomtext to name a few or be in the form of hardware solutions such as hardware magnifications, refreshable Braille displays or as basic a keyboard and pointing device adaptations.

Whilst we believe that specific product training is essential to the successful integration of AT users in the workplace we also believe that vocational support is often overlooked. Why have Vocational Product Support?

• VPS will identify inefficiencies in daily routines;
• VPS can help highlight tensions in the working environment;
• VPS can contribute to internal performance management and development programmes;
• VPS can be done at any point for any one even non AT users;
• VPS demonstrates a proactive approach to Accessibility awareness;

At the end of each VPS day a report will be produced that outlines the findings of the days observations. Additionally any documented shortcuts will be provided to the user in the appropriate format.

When would Vocational Product Support be used?

• Where bespoke applications are in use i.e Oracle, Web based and custom Visual Basic (VB) systems;
• When existing software solutions appear to be failing;
• At the same time or shortly after the implementation of any Reasonable Adjustment or adaptation has taken place;
• When efficiency coaching is required.

Who does the Vocational Product Support?

All VPS days are attended by specialists in assistive technologies that are experienced in using a wide range of products in a variety of environments from local/central government and corporate blue chip organisations with complex and established delivery mechanisms to Small to Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEâ??s) with simpler locally managed IT systems.