Artificial intelligence (AI) technology can be instrumental in empowering people with disabilities, according to an op-ed on Forbes. As per the World Health Organization, over 2.5 billion people with disabilities are expected to need assistive technologies by 2030, out of which almost a billion have no access to the necessary products. AI-powered solutions can aid people with visual, physical, mental, or hearing disabilities in both routine and complex tasks. Businesses can modify AI technologies to make them accessible to everyone, opening possibilities for an overlooked and significant demographic.
AI voice technologies like Siri, Alexa, and Echo can enable those with speech, hearing, or visual impairments to communicate. AI transcription tools can help those who struggle to communicate participate equally with their colleagues. AI chatbots can assist customer service personnel to understand their disabled customers better, leading to higher customer satisfaction. In the same way, AI-powered apps tutor visually-impaired individuals on braille. Personalized learning paths that emphasize continuous learning and development can be tailored using AI tools.
AI virtual assistants can create better productivity levels by easing workflow and automating repetitive tasks. AI integration with cybersecurity tools can provide early threat warnings, removing time-consuming tasks and enabling uninterrupted productivity. AI-powered virtual assistants can help disabled individuals navigate devices, transcribe conversations, and attend and schedule meetings.
The article concludes by saying that, as communication is crucial in these modern times, AI-based tools empower people with disabilities with the necessary means to connect with and participate in society. It emphasizes that companies should deploy these tools liberally in the workplace, not only to empower their current workforce, but to attract a more diverse and talented team in the future.
