Introduction

Next Dimension is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for all individuals, including persons with disabilities. As a Class 3 Entity under the CRTC Accessibility Reporting Regulations and in compliance with the Accessible Canada Act, we recognize the importance of ensuring equal access to our goods, services, facilities, and employment opportunities.

Purpose

The purpose of this Accessibility Plan is to outline our strategies and actions to identify, prevent, and remove barriers to accessibility, enhance accessibility awareness, and promote a culture of inclusion within Next Dimension.

Goals & Objectives

Identification of Barriers

Conduct an accessibility assessment to identify existing and potential barriers to accessibility in our facilities, services, and communication channels

Barrier Prevention and Removal

Develop and implement measures to prevent and remove barriers to accessibility, prioritizing areas of high impact and addressing feedback from persons with disabilities.

Accessibility Training and Awareness

Provide training and awareness programs for employees to promote understanding and compliance with accessibility standards and practices.

Communication and Feedback Mechanisms

Establish accessible communication channels and feedback mechanisms to receive input from persons with disabilities regarding accessibility issues and concerns.

Continuous Improvement

Regularly review and update the Accessibility Plan to reflect changes in legislation, technology, and best practices, ensuring ongoing compliance and effectiveness.

Actions & Strategies

Facilities Accessibility

Conduct accessibility audits of our physical premises to identify and address architectural barriers.
Implement modifications and improvements to enhance accessibility, such as installing ramps, automatic doors, and accessible washrooms.
Provide signage and wayfinding aids that are clear, visible, and accessible to persons with disabilities.

Digital Accessibility

Ensure that our website, online platforms, and digital content comply with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards.
Provide alternative formats and accessible features, such as text descriptions for images, captioning for videos, and keyboard navigation options.
Train web developers and content creators on accessibility best practices and techniques for creating accessible digital content.

Communication Accessibility

Offer communication supports and alternative formats, such as sign language interpretation, braille, large print, and accessible electronic documents, upon request.
Ensure that telephone systems, customer service desks, and communication devices are accessible and equipped with features such as TTY/TDD support.

Training and Awareness

Provide mandatory accessibility training for all employees, including frontline staff, managers, and executives, to raise awareness of accessibility rights, responsibilities, and best practices.
Offer specialized training for employees involved in the design, development, and delivery of goods and services to ensure accessibility considerations are integrated into their work processes.

Feedback Mechanisms

Establish accessible feedback mechanisms, such as dedicated email addresses, online forms, and toll-free telephone numbers, for persons with disabilities to report accessibility barriers, provide feedback, and request accommodations.
Ensure that feedback received is promptly acknowledged, documented, and addressed in a timely manner, with appropriate follow-up actions taken to resolve identified issues.

Monitoring and Reporting

Next Dimension will monitor the implementation of this Accessibility Plan and regularly report on its progress and outcomes to senior management, employees, regulatory authorities, and other stakeholders. Annual accessibility reports will be prepared and submitted in accordance with the requirements of the CRTC Accessibility Reporting Regulations and the Accessible Canada Act.

Accessibility Coordinator

An Accessibility Coordinator will be appointed to oversee the implementation of this Accessibility Plan, coordinate accessibility initiatives, and serve as a point of contact for inquiries, feedback, and accommodation requests from persons with disabilities.

Review and Revision

This Accessibility Plan will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis, or as needed, to reflect changes in legislation, technology, organizational priorities, and stakeholder feedback. Revisions will be made in consultation with employees, persons with disabilities, and relevant stakeholders to ensure ongoing relevance and effectiveness.

Conclusion

Next Dimension is committed to promoting accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do. By implementing this Accessibility Plan and working collaboratively with stakeholders, we will continue to create an accessible and barrier-free environment that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals.

This Accessibility Plan outlines the commitments, strategies, and actions necessary to ensure compliance with the CRTC Accessibility Reporting Regulations and the Accessible Canada Act, while also fostering a culture of accessibility and inclusion within the organization.

Accessibility Progress Report 2025

Organization: Next Dimension Inc.
Industry: IT Managed Service Provider
Number of Employees: 52
Reporting Period: June 1, 2024 – May 31, 2025

1. Introduction

This Accessibility Progress Report is prepared by Next Dimension Inc. in accordance with the Accessible Canada Act. Our aim is to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessibility for all individuals, including employees, clients, and stakeholders. This report outlines the progress we have made on our Accessibility Plan and how we continue to improve our workplace and service delivery environments.

2. Overview of Accessibility Plan Implementation

Since the adoption of our Accessibility Plan in 2023, Next Dimension Inc. has taken the following actions:
– Delegated responsibility for Accessibility matters to the Joint Health & Safety Committee, comprised of cross-functional staff.
– Delivered accessibility awareness training to 100% of new employees, and the entire staff has received this training.
– In 2025 we will conduct an accessibility audit of our digital platforms and office space, via the Joint Health & Safety Committee members.
– Implemented a feedback process accessible to individuals with diverse needs.
– Updated to our client-facing website to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards.

3. Progress by Priority Area

3.1 Employment

We reviewed and updated hiring, onboarding, and performance management processes to ensure they are inclusive. We provide accommodations during the interview process and ensure employees are aware of their rights and the support available.

3.2 Built Environment

An audit of our physical space identified minor obstacles. We have since:
– Repaired automatic door openers.
– Ensured accessible restrooms are clearly marked and unobstructed.

3.3 Communication (Other than ICT)

We standardized all documentation to plain language and provide alternate formats on request. Staff are trained on inclusive communication practices, including verbal and written forms.

3.4 Design and Delivery of Programs and Services

We reviewed service delivery processes and implemented inclusive client onboarding workflows. Our client support team received disability awareness training.

4. Feedback

Next Dimension Inc. welcomes feedback on accessibility through the following means:
– Email: accessibility@nextdimensioninc.com
– Phone: 1-800-461-0585
– Mail: Joint Health & Safety Committee, 3020 Devon Drive, Windsor, ON N8X 4L2

All feedback is reviewed by the Joint Health & Safety Committee, and appropriate action is taken within 10 business days.

5. Conclusion

We are proud of the progress made to create an inclusive and accessible workplace. Our commitment continues, and we welcome input from all stakeholders as we strive to lead with accessibility at the forefront.