Opening Lines of Communication
Video cams, video conferencing, and video interpreting services are opening doors for deaf people. Unfortunately, as of two years ago, the Community Service Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CSCDHH) was unable to take advantage of these advances in video technology with their existing equipment. CSCDHH had a mix of old and new computers that were connected through peer-to-peer networks with different software installed on each one. "We had a rat's nest of wiring," said Jackie VanAnda, CSCDHH Finance and Development Manager. In addition, CSCDHH handles about 400 interpreting jobs per month, and each job was being tracked on a small sheet of paper. "Imagine 400 little pieces of paper!" Jackie exclaimed.
In March of 2001, getting their technology systems in order became a high priority for the organization. CSCDHH contracted NPower Seattle to create an Access database that would allow them to track their clients' information and replace their cumbersome paper tracking system. A consultant from NPower also showed them how to import this data into QuickBooks for billing and record-keeping purposes. No more little pieces of paper!
One year later, with their database, billing, and record-keeping systems in place, CSCDHH was ready to have John Smith, NPower Seattle's Director of Consulting, help them put together a comprehensive technology plan. He worked closely with CSCDHH to put together a three-year technology plan that would help them take advantage of the new video technology available.
In the first year of the plan, CSCDHH needed to get their infrastructure in place to support their future objectives. Once the necessary hardware and wiring were in place and the staff had received the appropriate training, CSCDHH would be able to expand their services to include communication through video technology and improved quality of their Web site.
When the installation was complete in 2003, the staff was ready to make the most of the new technology. CSCDHH turned to NPower again for more training assistance. "It doesn't do us any good to have the technology if no one uses it," said Jackie. The staff attended basic Windows XP, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Outlook courses at NPower Seattle's on-site computer lab.
"NPower is a resource that has allowed us to dream," Jackie said. "Video technology over the internet is extremely powerful for deaf people," she explained. Video conferencing will allow CSCDHH to make video interpreting services available on demand. Video cams will allow people who are deaf or hard of hearing to have a natural conversation rather than relying on relay services or interpreters.
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