Sensory Software was recently approached by AbilityNet to develop some software for a community college.   The college runs a small shop, and some of their adult students with learning disabilities were finding it difficult and confusing to use the cash register.  Our piece of software allows you to add or remove sale items, print a receipt and control the cash drawer – it works just the same as the average cash till.  However, we have integrated it with The Grid 2, our communication software, to provide an easy-to-use interface, for those with learning or physical difficulties.  Just as with all other grids sets in The Grid 2, there are a variety of access options, including a mouse, touch screen, switches and eyegaze.  The grids can be also be customised for individuals.  Options include using symbols, changing the screen layout and style, magnifying cells to make it easier to see, and adding spoken instructions to help those who need a reminder. 

Currently, there are two levels of difficulty.  One level displays step-by-step screens, with spoken instructions, to make it as easy as possible.  There is also a more advanced level, which is more representative of a commercial till, and this is a useful tool when preparing people to enter the world of retail and employment.  However, the cash till can be made as easy or as difficult as you like.  The software also comes with a pre-defined list of items for sale, but this can easily be edited. 

This paper will discuss the advantages of this software for those with either physical or learning difficulties, and will include a brief demonstration of the cash till to demonstrate ease of use.  This could be an excellent learning tool, and open up the working world for those previously excluded.