Evaluating Accessibility Criteria and Alternatives of Computer Applications for the Blind Using Analytical Hierarchy Process

A recent research shows that blind users finding it difficult to cope up with the existing computer applications. This is due to the reason that current computer applications are developed mainly based on designer’s view to accommodate the sighted users. The entire designing process becomes even more complex when it deals with the blind users, as visual cues plays no role for them in any situation. Designers depend heavily on the existing design elements such as text, color, audio, animation, graphics, interface layout and touch sensation to design a user friendly application. However, these elements are just briefly described in HCI without the detail of the contribution in designing process. In this paper, a thorough research has been done to evaluate the criteria and the design elements using analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and to identify the role of design elements in overcoming the problems of a blind user when using computer applications. The result shows blind users needs more than just audio in learning computer applications. Touch sensation should be applied together with audio as a mandatory element instead of considering as a complementary element. The empirical finding of this article serves as a guide for computer designers especially the beginners.