Accessibility has always been a sensitive topic, especially in the world of retail, where every square inch is designed for maximum profitability and efficiency. But, due to recent tech innovations, things are starting to change for the better.
These innovations are opening new doors for people with accessibility challenges, both shoppers and employees. From AI-powered personal shoppers to adaptive workstations, 2024 is shaping up to be a year of groundbreaking inclusivity.
To learn more, in this article, we’ll have a look at some of the most important innovations that make waves right now.
Innovations for Workers with Accessibility Challenges
Retail didn’t used to be a friendly environment for workers who couldn’t move as fast or operate machinery at maximum efficiency. Luckily, things are improving and new technologies help step things up a few notches. Here’s how:
Adaptive Workstations
These are workstations designed to be easily customizable to help employees with physical disabilities. They include adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and specialized input devices like ergonomic keyboards and ergonomic mice.
Wearable Devices
Retail workers can now get help from wearable devices, such as smart glasses that can read text out loud, top-rated hearing aids that are easy and quick to install, exoskeletons that support workers with physical disabilities, and the list can go on.
Assistive Robotics
Many retail stores and warehouse facilities use robots equipped with AI to assist in tasks that require repetitive motions or heavy lifting. A great example is Amazon’s robotic arm system, which is used in fulfillment centers to help employees handle packages efficiently without straining themselves.
Voice-Activated Software Solutions
Voice recognition software transforms how work gets done by allowing employees to control computers using voice commands instead of manual inputs. This is beneficial, particularly for those with motor impairments, resulting in increased productivity, less fatigue, and overall enhanced job satisfaction levels.
Innovations for Accessibility-Impaired Shoppers
Sadly, we have to face the fact that many retail shops and facilities are not equipped to make accessibility-impaired shoppers’ lives easy. But again, the situation is slowly changing due to tech innovations as the ones listed below:
AI-Powered Personal Shoppers
Retailers leverage AI for personalized shopping experiences tailored to individual needs, like mobility or vision impairments. Companies use machine learning algorithms to recommend products, suggest outfit pairings, and even offer real-time assistance via chatbots.
Let’s take ASDA’s AI-based app as an example. This system helps visually impaired customers navigate stores while shopping by offering audio directions to products and areas in the store based on the shopper’s current location (which is predicted within one meter of accuracy).
Voice-Activated Shopping Platforms
Voice tech simplifies online shopping for those with physical disabilities or visual impairments, so more retail giants decided to integrate voice assistants into their platforms. This way, users can browse catalogs and place orders using simple voice commands.
Augmented Reality (AR) Fitting Rooms
Regular fitting rooms can be a nightmare even for people without any accessibility issues, but if you have a disability, they become unusable. Luckily, tech has evolved enough to offer us virtual fitting rooms where shoppers can visualize how clothes fit without needing a dressing room visit.
Following this idea, many makeup brands developed apps, like Sephora’s Virtual Artist, that let you try makeup from the comfort of your home. This saves you from a challenging trip to the store and helps you save money.
Wrap Up
These innovative solutions are transforming retail into an accessible landscape, driving more revenue for stores and brands. Plus, they ensure equal work opportunities for accessibility-impaired workers.
By embracing these advancements, retailers can boost inclusivity and profitability hand in hand, making the shopping experience better for everyone involved!
