The background to general user needs assessment, including its valuein service design and development, and the range of applicable methodologiesis discussed. The diverse nature of users is recognized andthe inappropriateness of a ???one size fits all??? approach is emphasized,with particular reference to visually impaired people. The place ofresearch in supporting an evidence-based approach to service designand development is noted. A contextual section identifies some ofthe drivers that underpin appropriate and adequate provision tovisually impaired people. They include legislation, international conventions,and codes of practice. Key features of the research agendaare identified. Much of the recent research relating to user needscoalesces around the theme of information technology, particularlythe Internet, and assistive technology; another component of theresearch agenda comprises investigation of the general needs of visuallyimpaired people in achieving a fulfilling lifestyle that includesaccess to information and libraries. Selected examples of completedresearch work from different countries are described in terms ofscope, methods, and outcomes. An assessment of the need for futureresearch concludes the article.
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