Meet the Steering Committee

KEITH A.

Keith A. works as a Business Transformation Analyst at IBM. He lives in Norwalk, Connecticut.

As a Business Transformation Analyst at IBM, Keith designs computer software to make the IBM selling process more efficient. But when MS impacted his own efficiency, Keith was introduced to a different type of software. IBM connected him with an Accessible Technology Consultant, who introduced him to voice recognition software.

"Because of my MS, I can only type with one hand," says Keith. "I can still do my job, but it takes me much longer to write reports." The technology consultant installed the voice recognition software on Keith's computer and provided him with several hours of training. Keith now uses the software daily to write reports, draft e-mails and stay connected.

In addition to the voice recognition software, Keith also uses technology to stay mobile. Because Keith has trouble walking and often uses an electric wheelchair to get around, it's sometimes difficult for him to commute to the office. IBM's intranet allows Keith to work from home.

"I can log-in to the company's intranet and have access to all of IBM's internal programs and data," he says. "I couldn't do my job if I weren't able to access this information from home."

For now, Keith is grateful for the assistive technologies and support he's received from IBM, but hopes that these technologies will continue to evolve: "I imagine a future where technology can help improve the communication between my brain and my limbs so I can walk more easily."

<< Back