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As society becomes more digitally connected than ever, ensuring equal access to technology for all individuals, regardless of their abilities, is paramount. Verifone, a global leader in payment solutions, has taken a proactive approach to address this challenge by partnering with the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to develop accessible payment solutions for the visually impaired.

A proactive approach to accessible design

Verifone has established itself as a frontrunner in the Accessibility Act, working closely with the RNIB to create inclusive payment solutions. This partnership demonstrates Verifone's proactive approach to accessibility and a commitment to ensuring that their products cater to the needs of all users, including those with visual impairments.

"Accessibility's not always considered when a big change happens,” said Sabine Croxford, manager, inclusive design, at RNIB. “I think Verifone was one of the first ones that approached RNIB to help with developing an accessible solution." By actively seeking out the expertise of the RNIB, Verifone has been able to incorporate accessibility features into their products from the early stages of development.

Enhancing usability through hardware features

Andres Castillo, VP, hardware engineering at Verifone, emphasizes the company's focus on enhancing the usability of their payment solutions through hardware features. "Since then, the design has really focused on enhancing the usability of the application. By bringing hardware features to make the usability easier for the end user to use." These hardware features, such as tactile buttons and audio jacks, enable visually impaired individuals to navigate and use the payment devices with greater ease and independence.

Collaborating with end users for optimal results

A critical aspect of developing accessible payment solutions is involving the end users in the testing process. Croxford stresses the importance of this collaboration, stating, "I think it's important for companies to work together with charities to make sure that they incorporate the different needs, and they can do that by making sure that the end user is involved in the testing." By working directly with visually impaired individuals, Verifone can gather valuable feedback and continuously improve their products to meet the specific needs of this user group.

Rigorous testing and evaluation

To ensure that their payment solutions meet the highest standards of accessibility, the RNIB has developed a comprehensive checklist that covers various aspects of the device's design. Croxford explains, "We have developed, over the years, a 100 points checklist that we go through when we assess a product. And that checklist incorporates anything from physical design of the device, whether it's got a headphone socket, for example. The font is large enough, the contrast of the font used, and anything else in between." This rigorous testing process guarantees that Verifone's products are truly accessible and user-friendly for visually impaired individuals.

Setting the standard for accessible payment solutions

Verifone's commitment to accessibility has not only benefited their own products but has also set a new standard for the industry. As Daniel Schwick, sales director, UKI at Verifone, proudly states, "Verifone has done the development for you. Because we've worked with RNIB, you can say it's best in class already." The solutions developed through this partnership have been incorporated into the guidelines used by UK Finance, influencing the design of other products in the market.

By prioritizing accessibility and collaborating with the RNIB, Verifone has positioned itself as a leader in creating inclusive payment solutions. A proactive approach, focus on usability, and rigorous testing processes have resulted in products that empower visually impaired individuals to participate fully in the digital economy.