In December 2008 through January 2009, WebAIM conducted a survey of preferences of screen reader users. They received 1121 valid responses to the screen reader survey.
Perhaps the most significant conclusion they could make from the survey results was that there is no typical screen reader user. As developers, we sometimes view screen reader accessibility as JAWS or Window Eyes or VoiceOver (or whatever) compatibility. This survey emphasizes that screen reader accessibility is about real people – and people that have diverse abilities and preferences. As developers, we must do our best to accommodate the needs of this diverse group.
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