Enhancing campus life: Accessibility app breaks barriers

Navigating a busy college campus can be a daunting task for any student, but for individuals with disabilities, it can be a significant challenge. Enter HandyMap, an innovative app designed to transform campus accessibility here at Central Michigan University. With its focus on inclusivity, HandyMap aims to empower students, staff, and visitors by providing detailed maps highlighting key accessibility features and potential barriers. 

A campus built for all 

HandyMap’s core functionality lies in its detailed mapping of accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, and hazard-free paths. The app adapts to individual needs, offering customizable navigation to ensure users find the safest and most accessible routes. By promoting independence and reducing the need for assistance, HandyMap fosters a culture of inclusivity across campus. 

The story behind HandyMap 

The app's creator, Jade Walleman, a junior from Chesterfield, Mich., was inspired by her personal challenges navigating public spaces. "I faced numerous challenges finding accessible routes and accommodations," she explained. "I realized there was a significant gap in tools available to help individuals like myself, and I wanted to make sure no one had to go through the same struggles." 

Through perseverance and a passion for inclusivity, HandyMap was born. It serves not only as a navigation tool, but as a means to inspire societal change in how disabilities are perceived. 

Overcoming challenges and seeking support 

Developing HandyMap wasn’t without obstacles, according to Walleman. Gathering accurate data about campus accessibility required extensive site surveys. Additionally, balancing technical development with user experience demanded consultation with design, engineering, and accessibility experts. Despite not receiving direct funding from CMU, the app's development was supported by valuable advice from professors and university staff. 

"I’m incredibly grateful for the support from the Make-A-Pitch and New Venture Competition staff, as well as faculty members like John Gustincic and Ken Williams, and Assistant Dean Misty Bennett, " she said. 

A hopeful future for HandyMap at CMU 

While there are currently no official plans for CMU to integrate HandyMap into its campus services, Walleman remains optimistic. "I believe HandyMap has the potential to significantly improve campus accessibility. I hope CMU will become its launch site." 

During a presentation to university representatives, although President Neil McKinnon could not attend, the audience showed genuine interest. "They seemed excited about how HandyMap could improve campus inclusivity," she shared. 

Lighting the way forward 

Reflecting on CMU’s slogans such as "Put your stamp on the world" and "Fire Up, Chips!" Walleman sees HandyMap as her personal stamp. She views it as a transformative project that embodies the spirit of "We do, we include." She hopes the app will ignite a broader conversation about accessibility and inspire future innovations. 

"I want to change the way society views disabilities and encourage others to do the same. Fire Up, Chips! Together, we can light the way toward a more inclusive and empowered future." 

HandyMap is more than an app; it is a beacon of change, advocating for a campus where every path is open, and every student feels empowered to explore their world with confidence. 

Advice for aspiring developers 

Walleman offers valuable advice for others looking to create accessibility-focused technology: "Consult with your target audience from the start. The only people that truly understand the needs of the handicapable community are other handicapable individuals. Also, make sure to always design with universal principles in mind. Accessibility-focused technology should offer a solution that works for a diverse range of users. It should consider factors like visual, auditory, mental, and physical disabilities."