Keytools Blog

Help for visually impaired

2009-01-20T13:34:00.005Z

We're pleased to discover that an internet cafe designed for the blind and visually impaired will be open to the public later this year.

The aim of the project is to:
*Reduce the 75% unemployment rate of people with sight loss
*Help 35 people a year into work
*Assist 45 visually impaired people a year retain their job

The RNIB have said, "It will also ultimately show the vast majority of employers that people with visual impairment can also be valuable members of the workforce."

Keytools hopes this sets a precedent and more employers around the country become involved assistive technology for their workforce.

The only New Year resolution you should stick to...

2009-01-15T14:54:00.012Z

Detox? Diet? Fitness? We're only 2 weeks into January and most of us have already given up on our good intentions for 2009! But here's a promise we can all make ourselves this year which will keep us healthy, and it's easy to do...

Here's 3 suggestions to help you protect yourself from Repetitive Strain Injury:

1 Use keyboard shortcuts

Using keyboard shortcuts means less repetitive mouse clicking.

CTRL + C: Copy

CTRL + X: Cut

CTRL + V: Paste

CTRL + Z: Undo

CTRL + B: Bold

CTRL + U: Underline

CTRL + I: Italic

Find more Keyboard shortcuts for Windows

2 Take regular breaks

RSIGuard - It's a really clever piece of software which monitors how much you use your mouse and keyboard and helps you use your computer in a healthier and more efficient way.

There are lots of big organisations that use RSIGuard - BBC, IBM and Reuters to name a few. All listening to their workforce and taking a proactive stance on healthier computing.

Call us for information on a trial on 023 8029 4500

3 Use Ergonomic equipment

Goldtouch Ergonomic Keyboard - We're all different shapes and sizes (especially after the Christmas binge!) and we all work slightly differently at our desks. So, it makes sense that our keyboard should be adjusted to fit us as individuals.

The Goldtouch Ergonomic Keyboard is the only fully adjustable keyboard on the market, and can be moved horizontally and vertically to suit you. This means you're more comfortable and your boss is happier (because you're more efficient!)

" ... the Goldtouch keyboard is a dream to use. My shoulder pain has stopped. I would not swap back now. Congratulations to Goldtouch."

Kirsty Hornsey, Health & Safety Officer, Chichester College

Buy a Goldtouch Keyboard

Keytools also offer a wide range of other assistive technology to help with your new ergonomic workstation

Finally, a resolution you can stick to. And all from the comfort of your new ergonomic workstation.

Go on, have a cream cake to celebrate!

MP attacks dyslexia sufferers

2009-01-14T12:39:00.004Z

Dyslexia sufferers have enough challenges to deal with, so they won't welcome the latest ignorant outburst from a politician.

Labour MP, Graham Stringer, has publicly claimed that dyslexia is a 'cruel fiction.' The MP's argument is that dyslexics have simply experienced confusion over teaching methods.

Emma Strong, Education Manager at Keytools disagrees strongly with Mr Stringer, "Keytools helps support thousands of students who suffer from dyslexia. We're sure that Mr Stringer's remarks won't be welcomed by the Student Support Officers throughout UK education establishments, whose tremendous efforts enable a great number of people to enjoy equal access to education."

"Next time Mr Stringer wants to share his views, we think that he should do some extra homework!"

Keytools in the news

2009-01-12T12:55:00.005Z

Our Assistive Technology is featured in a number of newspaper articles about Repetitive Strain Injury today, including The Daily Mail and Metro.

They highlight our range of ergonomic solutions including our FOOTIME foot mouse and ergonomic keyboards.

Start the year with on-site training

2009-01-09T14:49:00.005Z

Keytools is able to provide training on a number of software solutions.

Professional on-site training from Keytools offers a number of benefits that improves the quality of a learning experience.

* Focus exclusively on your requirements and staff with customised delivery
* Mixture of instruction-led and practical workshop based methods - depending on your needs
* Technical support following all training
* Plus significant savings by avoiding travel and hotel accommodation fees

Products include:
JAWS
TextHelp
Dragon Naturally Speaking

"Throughout the whole process the trainer, Peter, demonstrated the processes until we both felt that I had an understanding of them - which has given me more confidence. Peter's kind manner and clear understanding of the subject made the whole training day valid and I am happy to recommend him to teach and train others."
Shura Simons, Cornwall Partnership Trust

Call us on 023 8029 4500 to discuss the many ways on-site training can help you.

Going to the Fringe? You BETT!

2009-01-06T11:39:00.004Z

The Special Needs Fringe
14-16 January 2009
Olympia Hilton, London

First of all, Happy New Year to all of you! We hope you enjoyed the break and feel rested and refreshed.

We're starting 2009 gearing up to exhibit at The Special Needs Fringe 2009, next door to the BETT Show.

The Fringe focuses on assistive technology, which as you know, Keytools are experts in!

Come and visit us on stand S28. You can find a map helping you find Keytools here.

Merry Christmas from Keytools

2008-12-19T11:01:00.010Z

Keytools would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

We will be closed from 1pm on Christmas Eve and back in the office

on 5th January.

We look forward to blogging you in 2009!

Evoluent Wireless Mouse Foils Bank Robbery.

2008-12-18T11:47:00.005Z

Apparently a strange incident happened yesterday, as witnessed by Andy, our hot shot hack. He reports:

A daring heist was stopped in its tracks earlier by the quick thinking of an employee and a wireless Evoluent Ergonomic Mouse. According to bystanders, the mouse was thrown across the room, resulting in a knockout blow to the back of the head.

Police responded to the silent alarm to find an unconscious burglar draped across the counter with relieved customers and employees surrounding him.

The Evoluent Mouse has been heralded as a local hero in the aftermath of the shocking turn of events and has even been recommended for a medal of bravery.

Keytools, in fitting fashion, has decided to discount the wireless version of the popular mouse in reaction to the events which means that now everyone can have the anti-thievery device in their office for 20% off.

The bank manager stated "If we knew the wireless mouse could be such a life saver, we would have got one for everyone in the bank," continuing "Had it been the wired version I fear this siege would have ended quite differently!"

Now this may all sound a bit far fetched, but it's true ... the Evoluent Mouse really has been reduced by 20%!

New Keytools Workshop dates for 2009

2008-12-17T09:33:00.010Z

Would you like to gain a better understanding of the many ergonomic and assistive technology available?

We've responded to feedback from our customers who have requested the opportunity to get hands-on experience and expert advice on the expanding range of products now available.

Dates:

28th January
25th February
18th March

The Keytools Workshop is based at our training Centre in Southampton. Places cost £40 per person and a light lunch is provided. Book onto an Assistive Technology workshop online or call us on 023 8029 4500 for more information.

Office worker gets compensation for Repetitive Strain Injury

2008-12-12T11:22:00.010Z

An office worker from Portsmouth has been awarded compensation for a repetitive strain injury caused by typing letters to customers.

The insurance advisor who worked for Bennetts UK, was only awarded three thousand pounds for damages. The lawyers bill however came to a massive one hundred and twenty thousand pounds.

Repetitive strain injury is on the increase. Discover how RSIGuard can protect you and your workforce.

Steps to success

2008-12-10T10:42:00.002Z

We were delighted to show our support and sponsor Computacenter, on their charity walk of the Great Wall of China. They've managed to raise thousands of pounds for children's charity NSPCC (full amount to be announced soon).

Sales Manager at Keytools, Phil Guest, said: "We were thrilled to sponsor the team on their charity trip. We've been supplying Computacenter with specialist IT equipment for 7 years and we have built a great relationship with them."

Well done everyone!

Mouse life begins at 40?

2008-12-09T09:21:00.005Z

Today the humble computer mouse celebrates its 40th birthday. The first mouse was launched back in 1968, with Dr Engelbart's wooden block with wheels and a chord. The working term "mouse" was never bettered, and now 40 years on these 'mice' have swamped the planet - with Logitech recently announcing the production of their one billionth mouse.

Although no one is arguing that the mouse has been used with great effect, it could be questioned whether it will be around for the next 40 years.

Computer operating systems are strongly oriented to mouse interaction. However, using a mouse places a lot of strain on your hand and arm and increases the risk of RSI.

An ordinary mouse forces your arm to twist, moving it from its natural position. The Evoluent mouse is ergonomically designed to keep your hand in a comfortable and healthy position - just like a handshake!

And with forecasts of the next generation of computers being controlled by touch screens (like the iPod) and gesture control (such as Wii), the mouse might just take an early retirement.

But until then, Happy Birthday mouse!

Low vision support solutions

2008-12-08T14:49:00.004Z

To ensure you get the best results from your computer, Keytools can offer an extensive range of products specifically designed to help computer users with low vision.

There is a range of screen and keyboard solutions available to assist with a wide range of conditions.

Software, such as Dolphin, can provide you with effective magnification and speech feedback. For effective reading of printed material Keytools is also able to supply a range of digital and video magnifiers.

For easier typing, large print and large format keyboards are available in a variety of high visibility colours.

Software solutions allow visually impaired users to enjoy the same level of independence as their peers when using computers.

Long term absence "a big problem"

2008-12-04T09:10:00.012Z

A new report from the CBI (Confederation of Business Industry) this week has revealed that sickness absence cost the UK £13.2 billion last year.

The latest CBI / AXA Absence Survey also revealed that average absence levels in public sector was nine days. This is a shocking 55% higher than the 5.8 day average in private sector, which improved its absence levels over 2007.

A staggering £1.4bn of taxpayers’ money would be saved if public sector matched the private sector average.

Susan Anderson, CBI Director of HR Policy, said: "Long-term absence - such as stress, back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders - is still a big problem, accounting for forty per cent of lost working time."

The NHS, which continues to struggle to deal with people suffering from these conditions, is partly to blame, but arguably the bigger culprit is ineffectual management that lets people drift rather than helping them to get better.

"It’s ludicrous to pay people not to work when the tools to deal effectively with these debilitating conditions, through early intervention and treatment, are so well established and readily to hand, it’s no accident that employers who provide access to this have lower absence rates than those who don’t."

Keytools Christmas Sale

2008-12-03T09:22:00.017Z

Many of our best-selling items have been reduced in price for the Christmas season.

Evoluent Ergonomic Mouse - now only £50

Goldtouch Adjustable Keyboard - reduced to £109

Emporia Life Mobile Phone - down to only £50

Save money on many more of our assistive and ergonomic items by following this link.

Hurry! Offer only available until 19th December or while stock lasts.

New Information Website

2008-11-27T08:44:00.002Z

Keytools has launched a new website dedicated to helping people of all abilities use computers safely.

It's packed with lots of useful information for individuals and organisations, from information on preventing and treating repetitive strain injury to advice on complying with the Disability Discrimination Act.

Take a look at the brand new site for yourself and let us know what you think.

The National Ergonomics Conference and Exposition (NECE)

2008-11-26T10:44:00.005Z

Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, USA
2nd - 5th December 2008

For those of us in the Health and Safety and Ergonomics business, the ErgoExpo conference season is beginning. Hosted at Caesar's Palace, this state of the art conference brings together the world's leading professionals from a wide range of organisations and learning, to contemplate a safer office, workplace or college. Meeting and sharing their expertise, working towards making the world safer, more productive and more comfortable. And planning a future in which musculo-skeletal pain and RSI is not only banished, but prevented from happening again, where mankind and machine are in perfect harmony, and productivity and efficiency optimised for health and wealth.

Going to the Fringe?

2008-11-25T10:58:00.005Z

Keytools will be exhibiting at the Special Needs Fringe 2009, running next door to the BETT show.

Visit Keytools on stand S28 for everything you need for assistive technology.

Whether it's specialist keyboards and mice, software to help with literacy or video magnifiers for the library, Keytools can help you.

We look forward to welcoming you to stand S28.

Follow this link for a map to the Keytools stand.

See you on the 14th - 16th January 2009 at the Olympia Hilton Hotel.

Top 5 types of mice

2008-11-21T10:09:00.016Z

Keytools have over 100 mice to choose from, so we've put together this guide to help you decide which type of mouse is best for you.

Vertical Mice: The Evoluent Mouse
Unique "hand shake" position keeping your wrist in a safe and comfortable position.
Find out more about the Evoluent Mouse

Different sizes: Switch Mouse
Ergonomic Mouse with expanding panel - designed to fit everybody.
Read full details of the Switch Mouse

Trackball Mice: BigTrack Mouse
Perfect for those with arthritis, RSI, lack of fine motor skills and poor hand-eyeco-ordination.
View full details of the BigTrack Mouse

Alternative Mice: Pen Mouse

Hold this mouse like a pen for precise movement and a relaxed hold.

Order the Pen Mouse now

Special Needs Mice: IntegraMouse

Suitable for people with a high level of paralysis, Muscular Dystrophy or Multiple Sclerosis.
View the full benefits of the IntegraMouse

Mouse Packs: Assessor Mouse Pack
It's a toolkit which gives you access to a range of ergonomic mice solutions.
Deluxe version also available.
View the Assessor Mouse Pack

Go to www.keytools.co.uk to see our full range of ergonomic mice.

Hospitals battle against infection

2008-11-20T09:42:00.007Z

The NHS seem to be under constant media attention. Reports yesterday warned of the increase in Clostridium difficile infection in Scottish hospitals. With new figures on hospital diseases being reported every week, the battle against bugs and germs is becoming harder.

Keytools can offer support to hospitals, and anyone else, who would like to prevent the spread of infection through computer equipment.

Microban keyboards and accessories contain antibacterial technology to ensure continuous protection from potentially harmful germs. Another solution is the use of washable computer accesories . These can be held under running water and can even withstand hospital strength disinfectant.

If you'd like to learn more about infection control please visit the Keytools website or call us on 023 8029 4500.

MoLeNET funding for Further Education announced

2008-11-14T15:43:00.008Z

The Mobile Learning Network (MoLeNET) encourages, supports and promotes mobile learning in the English Further Education sector. 4 million pounds of capital funding has been made available for the use of handheld technologies that can make a valuable contribution to improving teaching and learning.

We hope, if you applied, that your bid was successful.

Mobile learning can open up a wealth of new opportunities for students, and it's important that disabled students are not ignored when implementing these new methods. Keytools has experience of supplying equipment to MoLeNET projects and can help contribute to your mobile learning technology.

Keytools supply a huge range of assistive technology, such as:

EasyConverter - creates alternative versions of text
Voice recorders - record + playback via PC
Mobile software - popular software on the move with USB pens

With close to 1,000 products, Keytools has a vast range of products that can assist with mobile learning.

"Our college received funding through MoLeNET last year and Keytools were able to supply suitable assistive technologies making the mobile devices available to all of our students."
M Staines,
Assistive IT Manager, Accrington & Rossendale College

If you'd like to discuss Mobile Learning any further, please call on 023 8029 4512 or email makingITeasier@keytools.co.uk, and let us offer our assistance.

New BigTrack website

2008-11-13T14:40:00.006Z

We've just launched a website dedicated to the BigTrack Ergonomic Mouse.

www.bigtrack.co.uk will tell you everything you need to know about this best-selling mouse - exclusive to Keytools.

Its also available in French, German, Spanish, Greek, Polish and Italian.

Go on, take a look ...

Special offer on Goldtouch Ergonomic Keyboards

2008-11-11T16:39:00.008Z

If you buy a Goldtouch Keyboard, you can get a Goldtouch Number Pad for half price.

Designed to fit you
The Goldtouch Split Keyboard can be adjusted to suit every user - keeping them in a safe and comfortable typing position. The Goldtouch Number Pad can be placed anywhere on the desk for added comfort. It's also great for left-handed users.

Perfect partners
The Goldtouch Keyboard and Number Pad work together to help create the perfect ergonomic workspace. With this special offer, there's never been a better time to invest in the safety and comfort of your workforce.

Or why buy a Goldtouch Ergonomic Keyboard and Number Pad for someone you care about this Christmas?

See the Goldtouch Keyboard in action here!

The BigTrack Ergonomic Mouse

2008-11-06T14:58:00.004Z

"It's a mouse that looks like a fried egg." That's how some customers describe it. And it does! But it's much more than that.

The BigTrack is really popular in schools as it's tough enough to withstand everything a class of children can throw at it! Also the huge trackball makes it easy for new computer users to move the cursor round the screen. Children seem to love the bright colours too.

The BigTrack Ergonomic Mouse only requires the slightest touch, so is especially beneficial for computer users who find it difficult to use a standard mouse due to:

Arthritis
Repetitive Strain Injury
Lack of fine motor skills
Poor hand-eye coordination

The two oversized mouse buttons are equally easy to use, and due to their location behind the trackball, will avoid accidental mouse clicks.

If you struggle to use a standard mouse, then the BigTrack Ergonomic Mouse may be the solution.

Call us on 023 8029 4500 for more information or click here to be taken to the Keytools website.

New study reveals injury from computers a concern for employees

2008-10-29T07:06:00.009Z

A study by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has revealed that injuries and illness caused by computers are the biggest safety concern for the UK workforce today.

MSD a major hazard

2,500 Safety Representatives cited Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) as a major hazard and one which continues to get worse. 40% of those surveyed identified Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) as a growing concern and the third most identified problem. Back strain came in fifth as another cause for concern for UK employees.

Managing Health and Safety

The TUC recommends that the government and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) should invest in developing a strategy to make places of work a safer place to be, as well as supporting those suffering from work-related injury.

Damaging cost to businesses

The TUC General Secretary, warned, "Unions and employers must work together to combat this as it can have a huge personal cost to workers and a damaging cost to businesses."

To find out how more about preventing work-related injury call Keytools on 023 8029 4500 or view our helpful Repetitive Strain Injury information.