We've changed our name! Formerly the SC Assistive Technology Advisory Committee (ATAC), we're now Access South Carolina Information Technology (ASCIT). We think this better reflects our main goals and mission, which are focused on the accessibility of electronic and information technology in South Carolina. While our focus is in state government, we welcome other organizations and companies. ASCIT provides a unique opportunity to network with people and learn from others' experience and expertise.
ASCIT has its origins in a 2000 Budget Proviso, PSC: Technology Access for the Functionally Impaired) as a result of a request to state legislators from the SC Federation for the Blind who needed assistance in getting the Employment Security Commission to provide accessible computers for people who are blind. It was approved in the 2000 Appropriations Bill.
Since that time, ASCIT has evolved into a network of state agencies and many others with a commitment to accessibility of information technology in South Carolina. We meet monthly (in person, via webinar and telephone conference). Our mission is to provide statewide leadership in providing education, developing accessible resources, and sustaining initiatives related to electronic and information technology accessibility for South Carolinians. We're a unique group of people with a shared passion for improving information access for all South Carolinians.
ASCIT Goals
- Provide leadership in offering education, training and networking opportunities for agencies, education institutions, consumers, and other public/private entities
- Communicate information about ASCIT and other activities/resources via the website, listerv, and social media in an accessible format
- Develop and implement a plan for sustaining ASCIT's Web Testers Program
- Ensure sustainability of ASCIT and its programs
For more information about our goals and mission, take a look at our strategic plan.
Get Involved!
ASCIT meets regularly on the second Thursday of every month, and meetings are open to the public. If you're interested in attending and/or bring a colleague, contact co-chairs Clayton Copeland and Tina Vires.
Upcoming Meetings
Each meeting is from 9:30-11:30 am at Able SC, and we often order out for lunch so we can continue committee work and networking!
Join the South Carolina Web and Information Technology Network. This listserv focuses on web and information technology accessibility resources. People can ask questions from other network members and get suggested resources and tools. Not just for Web designers, this listserv addresses ways to make all electronic documents accessible and usable (e.g., Word and PDF documents). Mail the Web/IT Accessibility Network and specify that you want to join the Web Accessibility Network.