Web Accessibility Rambles

In 2003, Microsoft Corporation commissioned Forrester Research, Inc., to conduct a comprehensive study to measure the current and potential market of accessible technology in the United States and understand how accessible technology is being used today. The study determined that 57% of computer users are likely or very likely to benefit from the use of accessible technology. And the future demand for accessibility is only projected to grow ("Accessible Technology in Computing: Examining Awareness, Use, and Future Potential," Microsoft Corporation).

Figure 1. Predicted Growth in Number of Accessible Technology Users from 2003 to 2010
The study also determined that the use of accessibility features was not restricted to people with disabilities. Among computer users who use built-in accessibility options and utilities:
32% have no disability or impairment.
68% have a mild or severe disability or impairment.

[http://msdn2.microsoft.com/En-US/library/bb172230.aspx]