There is also another issue to be considered in this usability issue.  
Regardless of who develops the screen reader capability, some programs 
just won't work all that well unless the program developers make certain 
modifications. 

Two classic examples of popular packages come to mind.  Apple's iTunes, 
until the release of version 8, was only minimally usable.  The problem 
was that Apple was unresponsive to the peculiarities of screen readers; 
and screen developers failed to make much headway.  Eventually they did, 
and the result with the collaboration of FReedom Scientific, GwMicro and 
Apple has Itunes well on the way to being a very screen reader product.

Another popular package is Norton Internet Security.  The problems screen 
reader users have had is the lack of seeing eye to eye between Symantec 
and the screen reader developers.  The best version currently usable is 
the 2006 Suite.
Though I had used both 2008 and 2009, my preferred version is 2006.

Does anyone really think that MSFT can develop the skill and sensitivities 
a company whose main business is blind users has in working problems out 
with 3rd parties?

My wife is an embroider and quilter.  It's an expensive hobby not only due 
to the cost of the machines but also the software.  In fact, the prices 
for several of the packages she uses is very much in line with what is 
charged for JFW and WE.
Consider the staffing these companies must maintain, the specialized 
skills their employees must have, the limited market, the amount of 
handholding demanded by users, the continual catching up they must do -- 
and I think I can understand why JFW and WE are priced as they are.  Sure, 
I'd like a lower price; but that would be unrealistic given what these 
programs are.

And the more one uses JFW or WE, the more one discovers what can be done 
with the software to make pc use easier and smoother.





It is a glorious thing to know that your Father God makes no mistakes in directing
or permitting that which crosses the path of your life. It is our glory to trust
Him, no matter what.
Joni Erickson Tada


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