§ 6.7   Product design, development, and evaluation.

   (a) Manufacturers and service providers shall evaluate the accessibility,
   usability, and compatibility of equipment and services covered by this part
   and  shall  incorporate  such  evaluation  throughout  product design,
   development,  and  fabrication, as early and consistently as possible.
   Manufacturers and service providers shall identify barriers to accessibility
   and usability as part of such a product design and development process.

   (b) In developing such a process, manufacturers and service providers shall
   consider the following factors, as the manufacturer deems appropriate:

   (1)  Where  market  research is undertaken, including individuals with
   disabilities in target populations of such research;

   (2) Where product design, testing, pilot demonstrations, and product trials
   are conducted, including individuals with disabilities in such activities;

   (3) Working cooperatively with appropriate disability-related organizations;
   and

   (4) Making reasonable efforts to validate any unproven access solutions
   through testing with individuals with disabilities or with appropriate
   disability-related  organizations that have established expertise with
   individuals with disabilities.

   return arrow Back to Top