Guide Dogs for the Blind is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people who are blind or visually impaired to move more safely and confidently through the world. They offer three core client programs: Guide Dog Program, Orientation and Mobility Immersion Program, and K9 Buddy Program. Guide Dogs for the Blind not only improves mobility for its clients, but it also furthers inclusion and advocates for policy reforms that change how the world views blindness. Internally, the organization is equally committed to ensuring employees have equitable access to the tools and resources needed to work effectively and independently.
The challenge
Like many organizations, Guide Dogs for the Blind relies on a growing ecosystem of internal software. As these tools evolved and multiplied, ensuring accessibility for employees who are blind or are visually impaired became increasingly complex.
Some legacy applications lacked built-in accessibility, forcing employees to rely on workarounds or additional assistance to complete routine tasks. At the same time, the employees relied on a range of assistive technologies, requiring careful compatibility across systems.
Guide Dogs for the Blind recognized it needed a sustainable approach that would ensure new technologies were accessible before they were implemented, while also providing employees with the support they needed to work efficiently and independently.
The approach
Beginning in 2020, Guide Dogs for the Blind partnered with Vispero for ongoing accessibility expertise and assistive technology support. Rather than focusing on a single system or one-time accessibility review, the partnership provides continuous accessibility support as the organization’s technology evolves.
Vispero’s accessibility experts work closely with the IT team to evaluate new software during procurement and validate that it works effectively with assistive technology. Early testing identifies accessibility gaps before tools are deployed and helps the organization to select vendors willing to address accessibility issues.
Vispero also provides direct support and training for employees, incorporating JAWS-specific navigation guidance into training materials so employees who rely on screen readers can learn new tools more quickly and confidently.
The outcome
This partnership has contributed to a strategic shift in Guide Dogs for the Blind’s approach to accessibility across its internal workflows. Accessibility testing is now a structured part of the organization’s software procurement process, ensuring new tools are evaluated not only for functionality but also for compatibility with assistive technologies.
Employees also have direct access to assistive technology expertise when they need it. Whether navigating a new application, learning screen reader techniques, or troubleshooting a workflow, employees can connect with accessibility experts for personalized guidance.
Together, proactive testing and responsive support help ensure accessibility remains integrated into everyday operations.
The impact
By embedding accessibility testing into procurement and providing ongoing assistive technology support, Guide Dogs for the Blind has strengthened accessibility across its workplace technology, creating an environment where every employee can fully participate.
“Confidence, independence, navigating the workplace the way you want to work—and being enabled to get help when you need help—those are all touchstones for us.” – Laura Peabody-Park, Director of Information Technology
Through its partnership with Vispero, the organization sustains accessibility as technology evolves, ensuring employees have both the tools and the expertise needed to navigate new systems effectively and remain independent at work.
