#Canada #Victoria #Accessibility Tool #Upanup #Municipal Services

Upanup Launches Accessibility Disruption Tool for Municipalities

Upanup, a leading name in digital solutions tailored for enhanced user experiences, recently announced the launch of its groundbreaking Accessibility Disruption Tool (ADT). This innovative tool, which was first developed for the City of Winnipeg, aims to ensure that municipal services and facilities are accessible to all members of the community. The ADT integrates seamlessly with internal municipal data services, allowing residents to receive timely updates and information on various services and facilities, particularly concerning accessibility disruptions.

Enhancing Accessibility for All

The Accessibility Disruption Tool is designed specifically to provide notifications related to disruptions in accessibility due to various reasons, including repairs on sidewalks or issues affecting bus routes. These notifications allow residents to plan effectively around potential disruptions or closures. A standout feature of the ADT is its capability for residents to filter disruption notices based on specific categories such as building accessibility, facility closures, transportation, pools, and recreation. Additionally, a user-friendly searchable map with zoom and drag functionalities ensures easy navigation for users.

Peter Knapp, CEO of Upanup, expressed, “Our Accessibility Disruption Tool allows residents and city officials to easily collaborate to improve accessibility in their communities. Not only do residents receive alerts about disruptions, but they can also proactively notify officials about issues they encounter, such as damaged steps, ramps, or potholes.”

Technical Excellence

What sets Upanup's solution apart is its integration with a city’s Drupal-based website, linked to the city’s centralized data service. This integration enables website administrators to post customized accessibility disruption notices directly into the same searchable system for various municipal locations, including facilities, parks, and pools. Furthermore, a built-in notification system alerts administrative staff to quickly respond when residents manually post disruption notices requiring updates or archiving.

Unique Features of the Tool

• - Integration with internal city data services: This ensures that the tool is not only connected but fully integrated into existing municipal structures.
• - Advanced search and filtering options: Residents can conduct specific address and facility lookups, making the information more accessible.
• - Cross-entity relationships: The tool effectively links disruption notices and facility nodes, enhancing the context of the information provided.
• - Searchable map: A detailed and interactive map allows for refined searches, offering a clear spatial representation of disruption notices.
• - Content administrative tools: Designed for precise mapping of locations, these tools enable efficient content management.
• - Bilingual support: The platform comprehensively supports both English and French, catering to the linguistic needs of its users.

Positive Impact Observed

Since its initial launch in Winnipeg in February 2025, the Accessibility Disruption Tool has consistently garnered considerable attention, averaging over 1,500 views per month. It has quickly developed into a trusted resource for residents seeking information regarding city accessibility. Following this successful implementation in Winnipeg, Upanup plans to roll out the Accessibility Disruption Tool across other municipalities throughout North America, aiming to extend its benefits far and wide.

About Upanup

Founded in 2012 by Peter Knapp and Richard Hammond, Upanup has grown into a prominent company with a team of 30 dedicated professionals across multiple Canadian cities, including Waterloo, Calgary, and Victoria. With over 100 municipal clients throughout the US and Canada, the firm is recognized for its commitment to enhancing user experience through innovative digital solutions focused on accessibility and community engagement.

For further information on Upanup and their initiatives, visiting their website at upanup.com is recommended.