DEWA has announced that it has received top marks for accessibility across its app and website. Its smart app scored 10/10 for the fourth consecutive year, while its website scored 100 per cent for the third consecutive year for compliance with government standards related to accessibility for People of Determination (POD).
This was highlighted by the 2023 POD Accessibility Evaluation Report by Digital Dubai Authority.
DEWA’s website includes a digital sign language interpreter powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), available 24/7, to enhance the accessibility of information and translate the webpage content into sign language for people with hearing impairment.
The colour of the website can also be changed to suit customers with colour blindness, while the font size can be enlarged to make it easier for those who are visually impaired to read.
Likewise, it includes an accessibility feature and image description to help customers of determination get information about an image by clicking on it, while the shortcut feature reduces text and facilitates navigation between web pages.
Meanwhile, DEWA’s smart app is compatible with various smartphones and devices and includes a screen reader; the screen colour can also be changed to suit the needs of customers with visual impairment.
It also provides easy ways to enter data through lists, radio buttons, check boxes, or by automatically entering known information such as date, time, and location.
Further, DEWA’s Hayak service, an online text and video-chat service on DEWA’s smart app and website, allows customers to communicate directly with its call centre staff.
Rammas, DEWA’s virtual employee, uses AI to answer written queries and audio chat in Arabic and English.
The Smart Response service for technical reports for electricity and water services, it was shared, also prioritises people of determination, senior citizens, and people on life-support equipment.
Speaking about the different features DEWA offers across its app and website, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, said: “We are committed to developing DEWA’s digital services in accordance with the government standards and best international practices to facilitate the access of employees and customers of determination. This is in line with the National Strategy for Innovation, which aims to make the UAE one of the most innovative nations in the world and utilise digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to elevate performance and improve the lives of all segments of society.”