Conference 7.286::dcu

286.0. "Why remove speach from ATMs?" by TOOK::MATTIOLI (my dog is (STILL) *not* cute!) Mon Sep 16 1991 17:57

Hi,

	With all the talk these days regarding the checking fees and other
changes at DCU, this might seem like a small thing to mention.  Nevertheless, I
have noticed the change and am somewhat less happy then I was.

	When They first installed a "talking ATM" in LKG, I was really happy.  I
happen to be blind, and find most ATMs can be rather difficult to use.  Often
important confirmations are unavailable to the user who can not see the display.

	When I first used the machine I was a bit disapointed because it didn't
say much.  Nevertheless, there WAS sufficient confirmation that the machine had
accepted your card, accepted your security code and was performing the fast cash
transaction of your choice.  If I limited my transactions via ATM to fast cash
(and I did) the machine was accessible.

	Suddenly, not long ago, I put my card into the ATM and heard nothing.
It's happened a few times since.  I put in my card, push four digits and a fast
cash button and wait.  If something happens, I know it worked.  If not, I'm
stuck.  If the machine chooses to be out of order and do something completely
unpredictable then what do I do?

	With Digital pushing to make it's products and services more accessible
to the disabled, I find the removal of this function rather upsetting!  I admit
it wasn't as good as it could have been, but it was a whole lot better then
nothing, and did not hamper a sighted user of the machine in any way.

	Does anybody know WHY this was removed?

                                     John

    I noticed that the Albuquerque Branch ATM had a cheery british female
    voice initially, and then one day the volume appeared to be turned
    down. Then another day it disappeared altogether!  
    
    Perhaps sighted people were annoyed at the voice in addition to the
    instructions that are displayed on the screen.  Maybe later, a DCU
    employee turned the volume down, then off.
    
    Rather inconsiderate for blind folks I would say...
    
    Have you asked DCU about it?
    
    

    	If that's the only reason, it seem pretty simple to install
    	an audio on/off switch.
    
    	Joe Oppelt