Accessibility is looking at AI as a means to deliver technology, according to Dan Sullivan, chief sales officer, Allyant – which helps businesses ensure their communications are accessible for individuals – both internally and externally – that rely on assistive technology.

But Sullivan cautions there is concern that AI could lead to discrimination against people with disabilities.

WorkingNation sat down with Sullivan at the 2023 Disability:IN Conference in Orlando.

“When it comes to the unintended consequences of AI and the fear of AI, they’re pervasive. They’re everywhere,” he says.

“There’s two sides to this equation and I think those issues, particularly relative to individuals with disabilities and how they may be perceived, understood, or seen in the marketplace really puts them in a position where they’re communicating information that, frankly speaking, they work incredibly hard not to – for fear that it would be adverse to their application process,” explains Sullivan.

He continues, “Sadly, there’s a large percentage of employees in the marketplace that really work particularly hard to shield that disability. They have 50 years of history that would lead them to conclude that that information is not necessarily to their benefit in an employment market.”

Sullivan does add, “I’m happy to say that is starting to move a little bit.

Learn more about Allyant.