Assistive Software and Accessibility Features available
The University makes a range of assistive software and productivity tools available to all staff. Find out what's available and what might work for you.
Read&Write Gold (available for both Windows and Mac devices)
This assistive software was originally designed to support those with dyslexia and other neurodivergent conditions, but it has a range of features and functionality that can benefit a much wideer range of people.
Main features include but not limited to:
- Text to Speech
- Screen masking (to help focus when reading and remove overstimulation)
- Colour tints (which can help make text clearer, reduce visual fatigue and potentially help those who experience migraines)
- It also has a TalkType (speech to text) facility, but this only works through a Chrome ‘extension’ and with web-based documents so may work with Online versions of Word.
Find out how to access Read&Write
If using the Glasgow Anywhere Desktop option, once signed in, either use the Search facility or click the Windows item and scroll down to find it.
Mind Mapping Software - MindGenius
For those who find it easier to manage their thoughts and projects visually, MindGenius is a mind-mapping and project management software designed to help individuals capture, organize, and manage ideas, information, and workflows. It bridges the gap between creative brainstorming and structured execution. Available for Windows operating systems only.
Find out how to access MindGenius
Training is available for colleagues on Read&Write and MindGenius. You must download the software first. Contact Staff Disability Support to request training.
Training is available for colleagues on Read&Write and MindGenius. Download the software first then contact Staff Disability Support to request training.
Microsoft 365 built-in accessibility features
MS365 has great built-in features which support a wide range of needs.
Immersive Reader allows you to customise how text appears on screen; options to support focus and read text aloud with accompanying highligts, making it to make it easier to follow.
Dictate (speech-to-text) in Word, Outlook and PowerPoint reducing the need to type. Look for the microphone symbol on the ribbon/toolbar.
Speak (text to speech) with the ability to hear most text that appears on your screen in Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and OneNote. As well as hearing text read out in English you can confirgure it to have read aloud in other languages.
Learn more about Microsoft365 Assistive Tools
Browser Features
Learn about the accessibity features in Chrome, Edge and Firefox.
Apple products accessiblity features
Apple builds powerful accessibility tools directly into iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
Check out which features are avaiable for your University supplied Apple device.