But Section 508 is forcing a change. The recent Technology and Persons with Disabilities Conference was a case in point. In previous years, the exhibitors were mainly smaller companies, but this year saw some heavy hitters. They're concerned that if they are not accessible, they will lose government business. As the deadline nears, many companies are beefing up their efforts to finish products set for government bidding.
Compliance is likely to remain an issue.
The Department of Justice sent the first of a series of surveys asking about compliance to federal agencies earlier this year. The results will be published in August. New surveys will be taken every six months. Government officials feel that the new legislation will make bidding more competitive. The one that builds in the most features and comes closest to the standard will have an edge in procurement.