Accessibility on the move comes one step closer with MyDocStore

MyDocStore from iansyst allows users to transfer files quickly and easily between devices whilst simultaneously converting them into the user's preferred format - whether text, audio or a combination of both

Internationally renowned assistive technology company, iansyst, was a winner in Plain Sailing, a Small Businesses Research Initiative (SBRI) launched by JISC TechDis, the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS). The competition has allowed iansyst to develop new technology solutions which will help people, particularly those with a disability, in education, at work and at home.

iansyst's proof of concept, MyDocStore, demonstrated how users can use mobile and cloud based technology to access documents anywhere using cloud-based assistive technologies. The MyDocStore service improved access to information and learning materials for those with reading disabilities such as dyslexia or a visual impairment, but also helped those who wanted to read documents and content when on the move. iansyst and its project partners have now been awarded funding to develop a prototype of the MyDocStore Service further enabling the service to be rolled out to learners and potential users.

Many users of assistive technology rely on particular combinations of text or need text to be read aloud. Up until now they have had to install preferences on each machine they use and have not been able to load their preferences onto mobile devices, which means access to these technologies is limited while on the move.

Now the MyDocStore project will use cloud, desktop and mobile based file management which will make it quick and easy to transfer files between devices and to convert them to the user's preferred format - whether text, audio or a combination of both – wherever the user is and whenever they need them.

Mark Glover, Director of Business Planning at the Technology Strategy Board said: “Through these projects we are helping entrepreneurial British businesses to develop and provide innovative assistive technology solutions. The potential impact of these new technologies is huge; improving communication and access to information will aid individuals in life, learning and work.”

Abi James, Head of Product Innovation at iansyst, said: “Often the biggest barrier for those with disabilities such as dyslexia or visual impariments is the additional time it takes to access documents and information compared to their peers. We are delighted to have been awarded second phase funding to develop MyDocStore which will help remove these barriers. iansyst is dedicated to developing new technologies to improve the lives of those with disabilities. The funding will enable us to work with our partners, Raspberry Software and Southampton University, to produce a prototype, in view of bringing MyDocStore to the market for the convenience of users of assistive technology and people wishing to access their files while on the move.”

For press information please contact Hannah Riordan, Livewire Public Relations, on 020 8339 7440 or email: hannah.riordan@livewirepr.com.

About iansyst:

iansyst has a 28-year history of representing, publishing and distributing assistive technology solutions to the education, public and private sector, to help people with dyslexia and other disabilities. ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 Quality Mark conformant, iansyst delivers contracts to the highest industry standards on every scale, from individuals, schools and academies, to entire local authorities and the Government.

iansyst Ltd has an established customer base throughout the UK and Ireland, including: individuals, teachers and needs assessors from schools, colleges and universities. It also supplies to education and disability officers from local authorities, and HR and occupational health professionals from commercial and public organisations.

iansyst is a registered supplier under the Quality Assurance Framework to provide equipment, services and support under the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) scheme which helps disabled and dyslexic students in further and higher education. www.iansyst.co.uk.

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