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New computer software set to transform lives of deaf and hard of hearing people RNID the charity for deaf and hard of hearing people, has developed state of the art computer software called TalkByText, which allows individuals and businesses to communicate in real-time text, replacing the need for the traditional 'minicom'. Many deaf and hard of hearing people find it difficult to use a voice-phone and prefer to use a textphone to make calls. However, traditional textphones are expensive, old fashioned analog devices, which do not work well in modern corporate networks. In contrast, TalkbyText is a software only solution that can be installed on PC's, allowing businesses to communicate effectively with textphone users without the need for any additional, costly equipment. Unlike existing instant messaging systems, TalkByText enables people to make and receive real-time, character-by-character text calls using their PCs. The software can be used by any business which communicates with the public, and is ideal for customer service centres, helplines, banks, hospitals, council offices, or any customer-facing department. It is also a great way for everyone to keep in touch, especially deaf or hard of hearing people, as text calls can be made between PC's within an organisation or with external contacts. There is also an option to add extra functions via plug-ins, such as the ability to send and receive SMS messages. In recognition of the high quality of this software, TalkByText has been nominated for two top industry awards, the European ICT Prize and SustainIT 2006/07 National eWell-Being Award for ICT Innovation in the Third Sector. SustainIT 2006/07 National eWell-Being Awards are the UK's only national awards to celebrate the social, economic and environmental benefits of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The awards ceremony will take place on 29 March 2007 at London's Globe Theatre. The European Information and Communication Prize is a distinguished prize for innovative products and services in the field of Information Society Technologies, and RNID was one of only three UK companies to be nominated this year. Guido Gybels, Director of New Technologies, RNID, says: "We hope that TalkbyText will go a long way in bridging the gap between commercial organisations and textphone users. Deaf and hard of hearing people are often overlooked when organisations think about disability access and companies can be reluctant to purchase expensive, non-standard equipment such as textphones, which creates a barrier for deaf and hard of hearing people. This affordable, easy to use software will enable all customer-facing businesses to communicate with deaf and hard of hearing people." RNID seeks to be at the forefront of innovation and TalkByText is a good example of using technology and innovation to benefit deaf and hard of hearing people. It is a great demonstration of the potential of Information and Communication Technology to bring about real change and more equality. TalkByText allows people to make and receive textphone calls, save or print text conversations, create personal and corporate address books and customise the software to provide just the services needed. A mobile edition and a website based version are also available. For further information, please call RNID on 0870 789 8855 or textphone 01733 238020 or visit the website at ww.rnid.org.uk
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