Computer icons block access for the blind
Article Abstract:
Blind computer users are finding the change from command-oriented interfaces to graphics-based interfaces is making it more difficult to access the Internet or to make a living. A variety of technological aids, such as Braille printers and screen readers, have made it possible for many people to earn a living with DOS-based computers. The move to Windows and its graphics-based commands has rendered the screen readers, which convert on-screen text into synthesized speech, useless and has resulted in a loss of jobs for many blind people. There are about 1.1 million legally blind people in the US and around 4 million workers who cannot see well enough to read a computer screen even with glasses. The use of graphics in other areas, such as consumer electronics devices, cellular telephones and cash machines, is also complicating life for blind people.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1996
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Microsoft plans to significantly boost sales, marketing spending this year
Article Abstract:
Microsoft is expecting its sales and marketing expenses to grow considerably faster than its revenue for the first time in the company's history. The announcement was made by Microsoft's executive VP for sales and support, Steve Ballmer. Ballmer also stated that the company is also planning to announce additional spending increases. Microsoft reported that it spent $2.86 billion on sales and marketing during its fiscal year ended Jun 30, 1997, which was an increase of 7% over the $2.66 billion it spent in its 1996 fiscal year. Revenue was also up, totaling $11.36, an increase of 31% over the $8.67 billion in 1996. Ballmer predicted the company will continue to spend large sums of money in an effort to penetrate homes with personal computers.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
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SoftKey reprograms itself to boost premium products; partial change in strategy was encouraged by acquisition of Learning Co
Article Abstract:
SoftKey International is refocusing its marketing and development strategies in the hopes of positioning itself as a high-end software vendor in several different markets. Using its $606 million acquisition of Learning Co for marketing leverage, SoftKey is actively attempting to introduce as many of its 550 software titles as possible into various channels. SoftKey's anticipated $350 million in software sales for 1996 will make the company the fourth-largest consumer software sales company in terms of sales. However, SoftKey's advantageous position is partially undermined by the company's $500 million in convertible debt and $27.5 million in annual interest payments.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1996
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