Improving Access to Online Community Services for People With Disabilities Post-COVID-19

Strategic Insights -

Community organizations supporting individuals with disabilities (PWD) took initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic by expanding their online services. Researchers from the Interdisciplinary Research Center conducted a study to explore the collaborative development of solutions enhancing access to online community services for PWD. The study applied a four-step methodology for co-creation, resulting in co-created solutions implemented by three out of four participating organizations, expected to improve satisfaction among PWD.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study aimed to improve access to online community services for people with disabilities (PWD) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Four community organizations participated in co-creation workshops, involving 18 members and employees, to develop solutions enhancing accessibility of online services.
  • The co-created solutions were implemented by three out of four participating organizations.
  • The co-creation approach is expected to benefit the development of other online community services for PWD.
  • The study received financial support from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
  • The research concluded that a similar approach to co-creation could be beneficial for the development of other online community services for PWD.
  • The study applied a multiple-case design, analyzing cases separately and then performing cross-case analyses using field notes.

Statistics:

  • 18 members and employees of community organizations participated in co-creation workshops.
  • 4 community organizations participated in the study.
  • 3 out of 4 organizations implemented the co-created solutions.
  • The study received financial support from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).

Sources:

  • Research article: Improving Access To Online Community Services for People With Disabilities Following the Covid-19 Pandemic Through Co-creation Workshops. Health & Social Care in the Community, 2025;2025(1).
  • Financial support: Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
  • Quote: Interdisciplinary Research Center, "This study followed a multiple-case design to report on the co-creation process engaged by four community organizations."