BPO firm adopts work aids for PWDs

CEBU CITY, Philippines — A business process outsourcing firm in Cebu started to implement an “inclusive policy” that will allow persons with disabilities (PWDs) to join their workforce — the first one to do so among the hundreds of call centers at the Cebu IT Park.

Accenture Philippines launched at its Cebu center last week a “suite of accessibility solutions” that will enable PWDs to work alongside other employees through workstations that cater to special needs.

The accessibility suites even include special computers, gadgets and even furniture that would aid PWDs in their daily work.

Special tool, software

For example, a special computer tool and software, Dhavani, will allow the hearing impaired read auto subtitles in videos and translate voice responses into typed text and vice versa during video conference calls.

For those with hearing impairments, a variety of special headphones that connect sound directly into the ear bone so the person can hear the conversation.

A special Braille keyboard will also be available at the workstations.