News

The Pensions Ombudsman in Ireland is keen to ensure his website is accessible to all website visitors, which is why he has invested in an innovative text-to-speech solution called BrowseAloud.

BrowseAloud reads all accessible website content aloud in a high quality, human-sounding voice which can be altered to suit the individual's specific needs. As text is read aloud, words are highlighted; a useful tool to aid literacy and comprehension.

Paul Kenny, Pensions Ombudsman commented about the new addition of BrowseAloud,
"Once we had a demonstration, it took no time to decide to incorporate the BrowseAloud website reading facility on our website, www.pensionsombudsman.ie, as it immediately enhanced access to our online information.

"Given that this office is the independent statutory body established to adjudicate on complaints about occupational pensions, it is imperative that people who feel they might have a grievance in this area should be made aware, as easily as possible, of the remedies available to them.

"It is reasonable to assume that the majority of our customers are older adults. Accordingly, those with reading difficulties, for whatever reason, or indeed those with English as a second language, will now find our website more user-friendly.

"Our website is very functional and not gimmicky; no flashing lights, pop-ups or swirling banners, and we intend keeping it that way. The BrowseAloud addition is a significant enhancement of this functionality. We look forward to working with BrowseAloud to make our website visitors experience easier and more enjoyable."

To avail of this free service, simply visit the website of the Pensions Ombudsman, www.pensionsombudsman.ie, and click on the BrowseAloud logo.

BrowseAloud has undergone some exciting new changes since the last release; users can now access all the BrowseAloud features with a floating toolbar which includes a talking dictionary, the ability to convert online text to MP3 and a screen masking facility which benefits those with certain visual impairments and learning difficulties.

Other new features include a Translation tool; allowing for single word translations in English, French, Spanish, German or Italian.

For further information on BrowseAloud email d.thomson@browsealoud.com or visit www.browsealoud.com. Alternatively, for a quotation email quote@browsealoud.com or telephone our friendly sales team on 028 9442 8105.