Accessibility Update

December 2008

The Microsoft Accessibility Update provides information about accessibility including accessibility options in Microsoft products. This newsletter is sent via e-mail to subscribers in the first week of the month and is also published on the Microsoft Accessibility Web site.

Microsoft Announces European Grants Worth 5 Million Euro to Fuel Jobs and Growth in Economic Downturn

Microsoft has announced it will invest an additional 5 million euro in cash and software in non-governmental organizations (NGO) that run community skills training projects in 30 countries across Europe. This investment is part of Microsoft's long-term commitment to foster skills and drive growth through creating employability opportunities for young unemployed, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Read this feature article

Quick Tips: Switch between open programs and windows using the keyboard

In Windows Vista and Windows XP, you can quickly switch between documents and windows you have open on your desktop (or minimized to the Taskbar) by using the keyboard shortcut ALT+TAB. Press and hold ALT key, then press TAB until the program or window you want to open on top of other windows is highlighted. Then, just release both keys and the document or program you select will be opened on top of all others.

Find more keyboard shortcuts for Microsoft products

Assistive Technology Spotlight: E Z Keys—adaptive computer access

E Z Keys is designed for users who have at least a third-grade reading level and cannot speak or need adapted computer access. E Z Keys has rapid text-to-speech voice output utilizing word prediction and abbreviation expansion. Control your mouse through a single switch, Morse Code, joystick, switch scanning, direct selection and more.

Product compatible with:

Windows Vista
Windows XP
Windows 2000
Windows ME
Windows 98

Accessibility solution for: E Z Keys offers an accessibility solution for individuals who are non-verbal or in need of computer access. This includes people with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, ALS/Lou Gehrig's Disease, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, autism, learning disabilities, and other disabilities.

Manufacturer Information: Words+, Inc.

For Developers

Making Custom Controls Accessible
These articles provide an overview of Microsoft technologies that can be used to make a custom control accessible. Techniques range from creating or overriding properties with Dynamic Annotation, to using the new IAccessibleEx interface to add UI Automation support to controls that already support Microsoft Active Accessibility.

The MSDN Accessibility Developer Resource Center pulls together content and resources regarding the development of accessibility products and technologies. Bookmark the location and stay connected to code samples, community sites, technical articles and documentation, upcoming events, and much more.

Accessibility Links