Did you know around three million Americans use a wheelchair? So sometimes, the IT support and IT service industry does well tending to their needs. Then, in other times, they fall way short. Google Maps is trying to change this.
Google Maps introduce a ‘wheelchair accessible entrance’ option. Also, it will be in the ‘Amenities’ section. So let’s say someone in a wheelchair goes to a restaurant. There’s wheelchair accessibility the user knows nothing about. Then, Google Maps will let them know.? Sounds great, right? Well, it’s a huge step in the right direction. But this feat is far from complete.
Consequently, this new feature isn’t available everywhere. In fact, it doesn’t even cover some major US cities. So you know it’s not available worldwide…yet. But pack the patience. Google Maps is getting there. As I write this, Google Maps is reaching out to locals everywhere to help them with locations. Let’s remember how Google Maps got started in the first place. We can thank Google employee Rio Asaka for this feat. You see, they insist their employees spend time on side projects. This was Asaka’s side project. But there is another complication.
Not all buildings are wheelchair friendly. I know that’s in contrast with the American Disabilities Act. But there are two things to note here. Many of these buildings existed way before this act came out. And another thing: since 1993, the rules are loose when it comes to wheelchair accessibility. And you can’t blame Google Maps for that. But I applaud them for taking a step in the right direction. I know the timing and waiting will be tedious. But let’s pack the patience. This project will take lots of work, time and research. Just about everybody in computer repair knows what’s that’s like. So yes, this is a tremendous feat. I hope Asaka gets a raise and a promotion for this. But my question is: What took so long?