Also, if the evaluation might be used later in contesting an IEP or in an ADA complaint, this can be cited as a conflict of interest and might damage the credibility of your case. Realize that for success and independence, the end user is initiating and developing a long- term relationship with the adaptive technology specialist. Technology changes rapidly. New products are released daily. Existing products are upgraded regularly.
Technology opens more and more opportunities for people with disabilities.
What worked for someone in the past may not meet their needs now. Treating adaptive technology specialists like order takers or disposable agency bureaucrats will deny the end user of the tremendous benefits of a long term partnership. This can often happen when a consumer aggressively selects a local dealer solely on the basis of the lowest price for the product. However, for a product to work for most consumers, it needs to be setup, installed, and configured to meet the specific consumer's needs. Additionally, quality technical support and assistance is essential at the outset for a product to really work for the consumer in the long run.