AVANTI

The AVANTI project aims to encourage people who cannot or think they do not want to use new technology. In particular, it targets elderly people and people with disabilities or from ethnic minority groups. Research has shown that these groups are more likely to be "digitally excluded" and face barriers to using new technology. The information society is a great benefit for those who can take part, but runs the risk of leaving behind those groups who cannot - this problem is commonly known as the "Digital Divide". Whilst eGovernment provides many opportunities for local authorities to serve citizens more effectively, Councils must also be aware that implementation of electronic services can run the risk of widening the digital divide. eGovernment cannot work unless it reaches everyone. Typically, excluded groups might include people with disabilities, elderly people, people with learning difficulties, minority ethnic groups and people who are afraid of or dislike technology. Government departments have a particular obligation to deliver services to ALL citizens. The AVANTI project partners are developing a user friendly on-screen assistant to serve their needs and help turn the vision of universal Internet access for all into a reality.

The project's aim was to try to improve access to web based services particularly in the public sector. The innovative idea was the application of conversational dialogues in natural language using animated characters (Avatars), to simplify the interface between the user and the system; in other words, to act as a personal assistant for the user. The project has paid special attention to groups of people who have not been able to participate because they lack confidence, experience or are physically restricted (eyesight, manual dexterity) or fall into the category of economically disadvantaged, who may have been deprived of the opportunity to learn how to use information technology.

• Web application

• Community building / Collaborative Environments
• Information Provision