Abstract
In this paper we describe results from our work on adapting speech support in the Opera web browser to disabled users, through using available gross categories of equipment feature (screen presentation and program control) to categorize user and usage characteristics in user profiles. Allocation of users to equipment is based on characteristics of user and equipment, rather than on diagnostic categories. We have combined a number of approaches to investigate how users with different kinds of disabilities may benefit from speech support in the Opera web browser, and how the speech support may be adapted to enhance their utility of this support. After an introduction, we present the method used, the user profiles, and how different types of voice support may be adapted to different (combinations of) profiles. The latter includes both general requirements and suggestions for presentation formats and commands (voice or keyboard) for the profiles. The main conclusions from the work are that the voice support in the version of the Opera web browser that was used in the study is most suitable for people who have reading and writing disorders and that further development of voice support should focus on better adaptation for persons with motor disabilities. Most blind and visually impaired people in Norway already have access to specialized support, and do not need the voice support in Opera.
