On 26 March I attended a roundtable discussion hosted by the BBC Trust unit on the accessibility and usability of Project Canvas. Other attendees included representatives from disability organisations and a colleague from Ofcom's Advisory Committee on Older and Disabled People.
The BBC Executive has asked the Trust for permission to develop a joint venture to promote a standards based open environment for internet connected television devices - Project Canvas.
If approved by the BBC Trust, Canvas would enable consumers to view a range of subscription free content on their TV sets, including on-demand television services and other internet-based content (such as the BBC iPlayer) from public service broadcasters. It would allow access to the digital channels available via Freeview or Freesat but could also allow access to internet content from Directgov, NHS Direct and other sites. It is not envisaged that Canvas would allow full internet browser capability or the ability to use email.
Viewers would need a set top box or other device which would include the Canvas standard to allow access to online content.
These devices are also expected to include local storage, eg a personal video recorder, an Ethernet port for internet connection and an electronic programme guide (EPG). Set top boxes are expected to retail at between £100-200.
Viewers would also need a suitable broadband package.
The discussion focussed on issues that need to be considered if people with a disability are going to be able to take full advantage of the Canvas proposition, including where required the ability to make use of access services like audio description and subtitling; the importance of a ‘design for all' approach to Canvas from the outset; issues for people with a learning disability; and the cost implications for consumers.
The current Canvas consultation closes on 17 April - see http://www.bbc.co.uk/bbctrust/consult/open_consultations/canvas.html
There will be a further consultation on the Trust's emerging conclusion, opening on 8 June and closing on 22 June. The Trust will publish a final decision on 24 July.
The Panel will be watching developments with interest.
Hi, thought you might like to know that the canvas project has already created a cross partner team focused on the product's accessibility (the Canvas Accessibility Group). The first meeting took place last month and there's a clear commitment to inclusive design. It is vitally important that any design takes both usability and accessibility into account; my personal view is that they are inseparable. We're already talking about how to work with stakeholders on this part of the project, so I'll make sure I drop you an update as work progresses.
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