P11-A: VIP Communicator 2
Leon W Gilbert, Co-founder: Accessible Friends Network, UK; 
Paul Weston, Online Events Co-ordinator, The Accessible Friends Network, UK
Abstract
VIP communicator 2 is a screen reader accessible VoIP server which allows blind people to interact over the internet from their 
home computers.   The sound quality of the server is superb and in addition to voice conferencing for multiple parties, the 
programme can manage high quality stereo sound that can be used for music and audio entertainment.
The program is very easy to install & use for novices, and has built in text-to-speech, making navigation within The Accessible 
Friends Network’s unique multi-channel VoIp server easy.
The Accessible Friends Network is a national UK charity and the only organisation deploying VIP Communicator in Europe.   On a 
practical level our server is currently used for the following purposes on a regular basis:
  * Blind & VI volunteers providing computer technical support to other blind & VI people from home.
  * Multiple party Member and Committee meetings which are attended from home.
  * Accredited computer skills training provided to blind & VI people at home via the internet. 
  * Accessible games including a free multi-player Golf game, and Real-time games such as quizzes and word games.
  * Social networking on a regular basis. 
  * Accessible home volunteering for blind & VI people.
Objectives of presentation and benefits for the audience
  * To emphasise the ease of use and benefits of VIP Communicator & internet based communication.
  * To explain the technical features of VIP Communicator in detail.
  * To demonstrate the programme through sound recordings and/or connect live during the conference to some blind/VI 
    members of TAFN from home.
Prior knowledge of topic assumed:  Contains advanced technical content: Yes
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