As performing arts organizations strive to increase diversity among their audiences, assistive technologies provide an opportunity to create more inclusive environments. But what is assistive technology? How do arts organizations currently use it? What is preventing organizations from providing assistive technologies in their venues? Where can organizations find support? Assistive Technology in Performing Arts Organizations, the latest paper in the AMTLab publication series, addresses these and other questions, and presents findings from a national survey of arts organizations on the use and management of assistive technologies.

In an attempt to better understand the current use of assistive technology across all genres of arts organizations (theatre, music, dance, visual art museums, regional arts councils, etc.), I have created a simple 10-question survey to establish the most commonly used assistive technology services and their current audience impact. 

It doesn’t take much to define “assistive technology.” Put simply, it is technology that assists people. It makes something easier to do. It helps. 

Wait a minute—isn’t all technology “assistive”?