1.1 Overview of Accessibility

All software products should incorporate accessibility features to enable people with disabilities to use the software easily and efficiently. Recent legislation such as Section 508 of the U.S. Rehabilitation Act heightens awareness of the need to provide accessible software.

The Java Desktop System is easy to use and incorporates many accessibility features. Every supported application and utility in the Java Desktop System is designed with accessibility and usability in mind. Users with physical disabilities such as low vision or impaired motor skills can use all of the functionality of the Java Desktop System thanks to the customization tools that are available. The customization tools enable you to customize the appearance and behavior of the desktop.

The ability to easily customize the Java Desktop System contributes greatly to the accessibility of the desktop. This guide describes the various customization options that you can use to tailor the desktop to suit your particular needs.