Dalbar and T-Base Communications have signed a partnership agreement under which they will work together in launching new accessibility criteria that measures the effectiveness of standard account statement design for the visually impaired, the companies said Monday.

Research firm Dalbar offers a service rates the effectiveness of financial services client statements. “This new strategic partnership will allow us to offer another dynamic solution to our clients, as well as leverage T-Base’s extensive knowledge of accessible communications,” stated Jody Bullen, director of strategy,

T-Base helps its corporate and government clients ensure that their service delivery is inclusive, accessible, and usable by everyone, including persons with disabilities.

Specializing in website accessibility, braille, large print, e-Text and audio, T-Base converts conventionally printed statements and documents into alternative formats privately and securely.

The partnership ensures that the firms’ mutual financial clients are mitigating risk, allowing clients to make meaningful use of products and services while meeting industry and accessibility compliance, the companies say.

With the first deadline quickly approaching for the proposed Information and Communications Standard, currently awaiting Ministerial approval under the AODA, (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005), the partnership could not be more timely.

The proposed standard outlines how businesses and organizations may be required to create, provide and receive information and communications in ways that are accessible for people with disabilities.

“This partnership makes it easy for Dalbar clients, who do business in Ontario, to ensure their alternate format statement presentment meets the needs of blind and partially sighted customers in advance of the deadline,” said Sharlyn Ayotte, president and CEO of T-Base Communications, who, as a contributing member of the Information and Communications Standards Development Committee, is privy to the proposed standard that will affect Ontario businesses.

“Not only will Dalbar clients be industry leading, addressing this important and impending piece of legislation, but their customers will be able to make informed choices with accessible content design,” added Ayotte.

IE