I Assume You're Not Blind

EvilGentleman: 27th Aug 2006 - 08:39 GMT

Wow! A set of real Flintstones low-res computer monitor screens with brick pixels.

Susannah : 28th Aug 2006 - 02:40 GMT

Not even funny - the other day I saw key pads in brail at the drive thru atm-

EvilGentleman: 28th Aug 2006 - 03:59 GMT

Um, Susannah - I think Cosmo is using the title to refer to the fact that this particular pattern of bricks is very hard on the eyes.

EvilGentleman: 28th Aug 2006 - 04:03 GMT

Oh wait, were you referring to the drive-thru ATM's braille not being funny? My bank here in Montreal has it too. Quite handy for the blind, and remember, a drive-thru ATM can also be used as a walk-thru ATM. You don't need a vehicle to reach the buttons. In fact, it is usually easier without the vehicle.

Cosmo: 28th Aug 2006 - 04:39 GMT

EG, I actually was reacting to the fact that they saw fit to put copies of the signs on the wall. Three signs on poles, three more right behind them, seemed overkill to me. But yes you are absolutely right, those bricks make my eyes hurt if I look too long. o_0

Susannah : 28th Aug 2006 - 06:46 GMT

The atm I'm referring to has a sign that says "for drive thru use only".

Susannah: 28th Aug 2006 - 07:32 GMT

I'm not even getting into the fact that all of the options/responses are touch screen - no braille there,if you can't see you can enter your pin and hit enter, but not much else. Kind of random - sort of like the overkill on the handicap parking signs;}

EvilGentleman: 28th Aug 2006 - 08:30 GMT

Hmmmm... Maybe the blind need help to operate the screen, except for the PIN, which should always remain confidential. They could still operate the ATM from the rear driver's side window. What worries me is that you Americans don't have braille on your money yet, do you? But anyways, I agree with the validity of your points, Susannah.

Of course, the simple reality is probably that since the buttons on the 95% of ATMs that are indoors have braille on them, it makes more sense to just use the same buttons on the outdoor ATMs as well, instead of having to retool the equipment at the factory to produce a different product.

And Cosmo, now that you point it out, I see what you mean. Those signs are definitely overkill. And I bet it has absolutely no effect on people parking illegally in those spaces.

anon (host135.wissllp.com): 28th Aug 2006 - 17:40 GMT

You're always thinking Mr. Evil!!

Cosmo: 28th Aug 2006 - 17:49 GMT

EG, I just realized one possible motivation for the signs on the wall: perhaps the drug store has had trouble with kids parking their bikes on the sidewalk, blocking the way for the disabled drivers. They might just be making it clear that the sidewalk there is also to be kept clear for wheelchair users.

(funny how a simple crude photograph gets us talking about disability accomodations) :-)

EvilGentleman: 28th Aug 2006 - 20:33 GMT

That is a very good and very plausible scenario, Cosmo.

anon - Not so sure I am always thinking, but I definitely type a lot.

Susannah: 5th Sep 2006 - 21:52 GMT

Didn't have my camera at the ATM this morning - but the braille keypad has been replaced by an earphone jack. Now thats progress!

observer: 29th Sep 2006 - 00:02 GMT

The reasons that Braille is on the drive-up machine are two-fold -- 1) so the blind can use it from the back seat of a car and 2) the machine itself can be placed and used anywhere. When it leaves the factory, the manufacturer doesn't know where the bank is going to put it.

I worked with someone who tried to make a joke about regulations "it's stupid - ATMs with Braille (followed by a Beavis/Butthead laugh)" until I explained that a blind person won't be driving, but will be in the back seat occasionally.

As far as the signage -- yes, it's overkill. But to be "legal" in many places, the signs must be on posts immediately in front of the spaces. Some states require that the posts be anchored, but in Ypsilanti Michigan, I'm sure it snows and the signs must be moved to accomodate the plows.

The signs on the wall might not be "compliant" but they do serve a purpose = dissuading those WITHOUT permits from using those spaces on those days when the "legal" signs must be temporarily carted aside for snow removal. And those are the days when those spaces are needed most.