What Would You Do?

Each month we try to address various accessibility issues that may arise within the TravelAbility community. 

July’s scenario: Welcoming a deaf traveler.

A deaf traveler enters your visitor center to ask for information, but the center has no one who can communicate in sign language. What would you do? 

Here are some suggestions from TravelAbility community members:

Brett Laiken, VP Marketing, Visit Florida

The simplest way to communicate is by using the Notes function on your phone and typing messages. There are also apps available to download that allow better communication options. 

Dr. Josh Loebner, Global Head of Inclusive Design, Wunderman Thompson

Start a notepad conversation with a first question, “Do you read lips, or would you prefer I write down (or use voice to text) what I’m saying?”

Additionally a survey could be conducted among deaf travelers that have visited previously to gain insights into what some of their frequently asked questions were at that venue and those with answers could be populated into a simple one-sheet document to supplement real time conversations. Also, the venue/destination’s website could have curated content for attractions and other locations in the area that are deaf/hard of hearing friendly to have even more info to share in addition to immediate dialogue. 

Jennifer Barbee, Co-Founder, Destination Innovate

BeAware app or a transcription app. All front line employees should be trained on tools to assist with accessibility.

Wanda Wayne, Discover Lancaster, Visitors Center Manager

We have had deaf visitors in the center more than a few times. When it becomes known that the visitors are hearing impaired, we generally speak more definitively (the person may be able to read lips); look them in the eye; write things down when needed and refer to written materials.

Muhammed Ruman, User Experience Designer

In this situation, I’d start by using a translation app to communicate with the deaf traveler immediately. I’d also provide written materials and videos in sign language. Long-term, I’d invest in staff training for basic sign language and hire diverse staff.

Disability Mom Responses through Social Media:

Utilize the Language Bank Interpreter Line.

Use Google Live to convert speech to text.

Start by writing everything down, unless there is an additional international language barrier. In that case, use Google Translate.

Check out this guide on how to communicate better with deaf people (from a deaf person)

Here’s last month’s What Would You Do? 

Scenario: An Autism Meltdown in your attraction. 

Answers: Click here