Accessology

Kristi J. (Thomas) Avalos founded Accessology in November 1990 as a direct result of her involvement in national disability related issues. Through various experiences in working with disability regulations, and the panic associated with full compliance to such regulations, the need for dependable compliance assistance was clear. Kristi participated in the development of a program for people to assess an "expert's" knowledge of compliance matters. Through this effort the need for a strategically linked national organization devoted solely to assisting businesses, state and local governments and agencies in the practical applications of regulatory compliance became apparent. Kristi began her efforts in the transportation arena helping airlines and airports comply with the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) after 12 years in the airline industry. She expanded to include ground transportation issues and facilities because of her close association with the Department of Transportation. In 1993, she expanded to include consulting on all disability regulations (state and federal) and provide clear and accurate training to help people understand their responsibilities under each regulation. In early 1995, Accessology again expanded services to include architectural plan reviews and final inspections in Texas on behalf of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Through this program construction documents are reviewed for compliance with the related sections of the Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) and a comprehensive report is developed for the architect designing the project. Within one year of occupancy, we then complete the final on-site inspection, again ensuring compliance with the Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS). Our alliance with TDLR allows us to assist architects, designers and building owners in many phases of a project, from conceptualization to final design. Most of the confusion associated with compliance with disability regulations stems from the application of the standards to a specific project, not the standards themselves. Our services ensure accurate and timely answers to very complex problems regarding full access. This allows our clients to concentrate on other important matters, with full confidence that all accessibility related issues are being addressed. Today, much of our work stems from the rise in ADA related lawsuits, and the need to address compliance for existing facilities. From a risk management perspective we draw on our extensive experience to create access solutions that not only comply with minimum standards, but exceed them when possible. We believe in a creative, holistic approach to accessibility that showcases the benefits of compliance, resulting in local and national recognition in several projects to date. In short, our goal is to continue partnering with clients in the shared endeavor of creating access for all.