Enhancing Productivity Applications for People who are Blind using AI Assistants

Productivity applications, such as word processors, spreadsheets and presentations, have become indispensable tools in the workplace, higher education, and personal settings. These applications are primarily accessed by blind users through the use of screen readers, which face numerous accessibility and usability challenges that hinder productivity and independence. My research aims to understand the severity of these challenges, explore the design space for potential AI-based Assistants, and propose design guidelines for more accessible and usable applications. The research employs a Design Thinking and Co-design approach, with the active involvement of blind users throughout the project. I have conducted a survey and a user study to gain insights into blind users' experiences with productivity applications. The next phase of the project will delve into AI assistant capabilities and interaction techniques aimed at enhancing blind users' productivity and independence.