Problem: Inaccessible Refreshment Options
Lighthouse for the Blind, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with visual impairments, faced significant challenges with their outdated vending machines. The machines lacked braille labels, making it difficult for visually impaired employees to independently access refreshments. This gap in accessibility was a daily hurdle for the staff, who needed a more user-friendly and inclusive solution to meet their refreshment needs.
Solution: Customized, Accessible Markets
Mcliff partnered with Lighthouse for the Blind to create a fully accessible refreshment solution tailored to the needs of their visually impaired employees. The plan involved installing two self-service markets—one in the main building and another across the street in the corporate building.
To ensure full accessibility, Mcliff developed a simple yet effective planogram, tagging each product with braille labels. This allowed visually impaired employees to easily identify their chosen items. Additionally, Mcliff sourced kiosks equipped with a “talking” function, which audibly announced the product name and price when scanned. Recognizing that the lunchroom could get noisy, Mcliff also connected an external speaker to the kiosk, amplifying the audio for clearer communication.
Result: A Thrilled and Empowered Workforce
The introduction of the new markets was met with excitement and enthusiasm by the staff at Lighthouse for the Blind. Employees were thrilled with their newfound ability to independently navigate the markets and access refreshments with ease. To celebrate the launch, Mcliff organized a grand opening event, complete with giveaways and prizes, further building the sense of excitement and satisfaction among the employees.
The success of the San Antonio markets has led to plans for expansion. Lighthouse for the Blind was so pleased with the outcome that they have begun coordinating with Mcliff to implement similar accessible markets at two Austin locations as well as their Taylor location.
Mcliff’s customized approach not only met but exceeded the expectations of Lighthouse for the Blind, creating an inclusive and empowering environment for visually impaired employees. The project highlights Mcliff’s commitment to accessibility and customer satisfaction, paving the way for future collaborations that prioritize the needs of all employees.