Darragh: A few comments. First, you're right, you're not the only voice talking to them, but I don't think there's enough. I don't honestly think that will ever change just because their aren't that many blind system admins. However, that doesn't mean there aren't things we can't do. First off, one thing I've come to realize is a lot of the assistive tech companies have way less complex environments than what we work in. So, some of this server software might be complex and intimidating for them. Make it easier, instead of saying "Hey this doesn't work" say something like "Hey, I have a VM I want to give you that's not working with your software and here are exact steps on how to turn it on, log in, and duplicate the issue." Having a VM that you can put in their laps and give them steps will go a long way, suddenly you've broken it down into a working environment. As to the assistive tech companies working with the mainstream vendors, if that's what you're thinking about, again I think it's a little much to expect that. Again, these adaptive companies are really focused and have a narrow skill set. So, instead of expecting them to take the leap, find your own contacts, introduce the two and let them talk from the programming component. That's not easy, but it's a step in the right direction and its where I've had the best results. Ryan -----Original Message----- From: Blind-sysadmins [mailto:blind-sysadmins-bounces@lists.hodgsonfamily.org] On Behalf Of Darragh OHeiligh Sent: Thursday, July 19, 2012 2:48 AM To: Blind sysadmins list Subject: [Blind-sysadmins] Raising awareness fo blind system administrators. Good morning, After visiting sight village yesterday, I'm interested in your thought's on how we could raise the profile and awareness of blind system administrators. Every company I spoke to about server software had the opinion that I was the only one to ever speak to them about such things. I know this isn't true but it rasies the point that assistive technologists are not paying attention to what we need. I have a few ideas but until I have my first coffee of the day, I'm going to let others have their say first. Darragh _______________________________________________ Blind-sysadmins mailing list Blind-sysadmins@lists.hodgsonfamily.org http://lists.hodgsonfamily.org/listinfo/blind-sysadmins