Advancements in Accessibility Through Collaboration by TIG and KMA with U.S. Access Board

Enhancing Accessibility in Technology: A Collaborative Effort by TIG and KMA

In a significant move to improve accessibility in self-service technologies, The Industry Group (TIG) and the Kiosk Manufacturer Association (KMA) have recently convened with the U.S. Access Board. Their discussions, held on September 15, 2026, centered around evolving standards to ensure that accessibility keeps pace with advancing technology and increasingly complex customer interactions.

Moving Beyond Devices

Traditionally, the focus of accessibility discussions revolved largely around specific devices, such as kiosks or payment terminals. Craig Allen Keefner, executive director of KMA and CEO of TIG, emphasized that accessibility now needs to be viewed in a broader context. He stated, "The question is no longer about the individual kiosk but whether a customer can independently and privately complete a transaction. This includes arriving at the equipment, identifying the service, operating the interface, processing payment, receiving assistance, and concluding the interaction."

This shift in perspective highlights the necessity of making all aspects of a transaction accessible rather than isolating it to singular points. As customers increasingly engage with technologies encompassing kiosks, mobile phones, voice interfaces, and AI systems, the push for a more integrated and flexible approach becomes vital.

Incorporating Advanced Technologies

During the meeting, the committee explored various avenues to enhance accessibility, including electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, self-service retail options, smart vending machines, and efficient government-service workflows. A crucial takeaway was the recognition that while advanced technologies like conversational AI, voice commands, gesture recognition, mobile applications, QR codes, and biometrics can broaden access, they should not serve as the only methods available for customers to complete their transactions. It's essential to maintain alternative options to ensure inclusivity for all users.

TIG's Expansion Plans

In its constant evolution, TIG has noted considerable market activity in the realm of self-service technology and the restaurant sector. For instance, Canopee Tech, a Miami-based quick-service restaurant technology firm, has recently announced the appointment of Bruno LO-RE as its chairman and president. This strategic move, alongside the company's founder Thibaud Denolle, aims to accelerate the deployment of restaurant technology across numerous locations in North America, with plans for international growth on the horizon.

Additionally, TIG and KMA are preparing for the upcoming Fall 2026 events where they will launch enhanced programs targeting supporter engagement, trade shows, and market intelligence. Notably, they are set to unveil TIGER 2027 during the retail industry's NRF New York event in January. This expansion represents a shift from a one-time report into a year-round intelligence service complete with implementation analysis, quarterly updates, and direct access to analysts.

Upcoming Opportunities

To further their initiatives, TIG and KMA will be participating in the Automated Retail Kiosk Innovation Show (ARKI), scheduled for December 14-16, 2026, at Loews Miami Beach. This event will delve into kiosks, self-checkouts, smart vending solutions, payment systems, digital signage, AI, and unattended retail technologies. Attendees can find TIG and KMA at booth 39, and qualified users are invited to use the registration code INDUSTRY20 for a 20% discount on the fee.

Conclusion

As we see a convergence between technology advancement and accessibility, the collaborative efforts between TIG and KMA signify a commitment to inclusivity in technology. It's a crucial step that reflects a broader understanding of the diverse needs of customers in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape. Their proactive initiatives promise to pave the way for more inclusive and accessible solutions in the future, ensuring that everyone can engage with technology effectively, regardless of their individual circumstances.