South Dakota Ag Connection - Innovative Strategies for Customer Service

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Innovative Strategies for Customer Service
South Dakota Ag Connection - 03/29/2017

SDSU Extension is collaborating with Western Resources for Independent Living to host the second in a four-part workshop series designed to increase business owner awareness on the experiences of customers with disabilities. Universal Design for Customer Loyalty is free and will be held April 11 at SDSU Extension Rapid City Regional Center (711 North Creek Drive) at 7 to 7:45 a.m. (MT) or 5:15-6 p.m. (MT).

"A key component of any business or organizations are the experiences of people we serve," explained Leacey Brown, SDSU Extension Gerontology Field Specialist.

Accessible design is the focus of session two.

"Our ultimate goal is for business owners to make accessibility a priority when making renovations or changes to their business," said Chad Ratigan, Executive Director, Western Resources for Independent Living.

The first session took place in January. Attendees learned about results of an evaluation conducted to inform the development of this series.

"Perhaps the most important thing we learned, is that many people who use accessible features, like door buttons and ramps, do not have a disability," said Leacey E. Brown, SDSU Extension Gerontology Field Specialist.

Brown explained that the primary reason people use these features are because their hands are full or they are pushing a cart or stroller. "These findings send a powerful message about the positive impact accessibility has for all customers," Brown said.

Making accessibility a priority was an easy choice for Kevin Beshara, Owner, Colonial House Restaurant. "All our guests benefit from it," Beshara said. "Maybe not directly, but at some point, either through a relative, loved one or friend, we all like convenience and ease of access to the places we frequent," Beshara, said.

To register visit the Western Resources for Independent Living website. For more information, contact Leacey E. Brown, Gerontology Field Specialist, at 605-394-1722.

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