Syracuse - Edward Lipson, a physics professor at Syracuse University (SU), and David Warner, M.D., who is on the staff at SU's
Northeast Parallel Architectures Center, have earned a $50,000 grant through Microsoft's "Accessibility Product Development Awards"
program for their work in helping the disabled gain access to technology in the workplace.
Microsoft awards the grants to nonprofit research and educational institutions for original research on PC accessibility. Microsoft
created the international grant program, "Exploring PC Accessibility: New Discoveries," in December 1998 to complement and extend
research on making computers easier and more useful for people with a wide range of disabilities. Thus far, the company has
awarded $250,000. The grant money was broken down into five $10,000 awards and four at $50,000.
The proposal offered by Lipson and Warner is aimed at continuing the development and documentation of "NeatTools," accessibility
software that is the core of the University's Pulsar Project.
The goal of the Pulsar Project is to develop cost-efficient, customized "human-computer interface technologies" and extend the
availability of information-based technologies to all computer users. Particular emphasis was given to those unable to manipulate
a keyboard or mouse. This phase of the project is designed to document the effectiveness of the NeatTools visual programs, and sub-
programs, so that the information will make it easier for those with disabilities to get a fast start with the system. By developing
new "external modules," or mechanical apparatus, Lipson and Warner hope to expand the scope and applicability of NeatTools.
"There is a compelling need for Microsoft and the PC industry to anticipate how evolving technology can be made accessible," says
Greg Lowney, director of accessibility for Microsoft. "We believe that the research initiatives supported by this grant will have
near-term benefits for computer users with disabilities."
"Initially, we were a little concerned about accepting the grant because we were worried about intellectual property rights," says Dr. Warner.
"We are dedicated and committed to keeping this technology free to people with disabilities so that they can join society and the
work force."
Microsoft gave Lipson and Warner the necessary assurances that the grant was for recognition and support of their work only and that no
claims or agreements were attached to the grant money. "The whole purpose of the grants was not to improve Microsoft's product base,"
says Lowney. "The technology coming out of Syracuse is cutting edge. Very impressive stuff that can benefit so many people with
disabilities. We want that technology to remain in the public domain."