I don't expect we'll ever get to the point where prejudice against people with disabilities disappears completely. While an inclusive corporate culture such as Sears' helps speed the ADA evolution, completing the process will require more intensive education and communication between management and the work force. Often the best solutions for providing access are those that have universal application, especially with regard to facility design and information technology. Sears' success in providing employees who are blind with access to the graphical computing world is an example of universal access solutions that allow all employees to share equally in the benefits of computer and communications technology. Telecommuting, the ability to work at home while using modems, fax machines, and telephones to stay connected with the office, is one of the accommodations that has emerged through information technology.
Telecommuting is another universally applicable solution, and one that involves minimal costs.
Many companies are using the telecommuting option to save costs associated with traditional office overhead. To enable the modified bed rest Grossman required, Sears provided a lap-top computer with supplies, a second phone line, and special mail delivery and pickup. Sears also paid service charges for Grossman's fax machine and e-mail. Although she missed daily contact with coworkers, Grossman liked the flexibility of her work hours and noted a reduction in stress and distractions. Designing universal access into new or remodeled facilities is not necessarily a costly proposition.