Update regarding the continued use of Ally within Brightspace

Following a comprehensive evaluation, the recommendation stands for the continued use of Ally, integrated into Brightspace since 2021. This tool facilitates document accessibility enhancements and offers various formats to accommodate diverse learning needs.

The assessment reflects increased student engagement with alternative formats, impacting over 5,000 modules annually. While faculty feedback highlights Ally's role in promoting accessible content creation, certain subject areas face challenges in utilising the tool effectively.

Both staff and students acknowledge Ally's potential benefits, with over 75% expressing support for its retention. However, concerns persist regarding Ally's applicability in specific fields due to limitations in addressing certain document formats.

The University has secured a five-year contract for Ally, aiming to maintain stability and ongoing support across the institution. This decision aligns with our commitment to digital accessibility and fostering inclusive learning environments.

Ally Recommendation Report