The intent of the ADA is to promote access which will not interfere with the operation of a given business or its mission. For the business community, promoting access and hiring persons with disabilities bolsters sales and marketing efforts. People with disabilities constitute an enormous untapped market, and like all consumers they desire basic things such as computers, Internet applications, transportation equipment, telecommunications devices, news and information, clothing and many other goods and services. Tapping the disability market makes sound economic sense. For the persons with disabilities around the nation, increased participation in the marketplace will eliminate the devastating social isolation which they commonly face every day.
Isolation is a significant byproduct of exclusion from the workplace and the economy.
The benefits of greater market participation for the disability community exceed the ADA's stated goals such as greater employment, social participation and access. By playing a larger role in the economy as consumers they are bound to have more opportunities to get involved in their communities, network with others and start businesses of their own. Indeed, the more businesses focus on the disability market, the more they will depend on the creative imput and professional advice of persons with disabilities to ensure they are successful. Ultimately, access and equal employment opportunity are basic civil rights. People with disabilities shouldn't have to struggle to get them.