SIUE Expands Accessible Navigation with NaviLens Technology

SIUE Expands Accessible Navigation with NaviLens Technology

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has expanded accessibility through the implementation of NaviLens, a smartphone-based wayfinding system designed to support blind and low vision individuals with independent navigation in indoor and outdoor spaces.

This initiative is led by the Office for Accessible Campus Community & Equitable Student Support (ACCESS), SIUE's accommodation services office. The technology uses high-density color markers that are scannable through the NaviLens app from long distances, and wide angles and without requiring precise camera focus. It provides real-time audio guidance and haptic feedback to help users navigate campus spaces more independently.

"To put it simply, NaviLens is an accessible wayfinding app for smartphones," said Dominic Dorsey, EdD, Director of ACCESS. "On a campus as large as SIUE where wayfinding can even be an issue for sighted folks, this bridges the gap by helping low vision students exercise the same freedom and independence walking to and from class, navigating spaces like dining and center court and making their way safely back to their residence halls."

The system allows users to scan surrounding environments and receive information about nearby spaces including restrooms, elevators, emergency exits, tornado shelters and dining locations. NaviLens codes can also connect users to menus, websites and additional digital resources, such as when guests are orienting themselves within the food court in the Morris University Center (MUC).

"With NaviLens, users can scan the area and receive audio feedback and haptic support regarding what options are in the space and how to navigate to them," said Dorsey. "Once they select a location, they can then click on the link for a selected NaviLens code and receive menu information previously inaccessible on monitors and screens. This levels the playing field significantly."

The University has begun implementing NaviLens in high-traffic campus locations including the MUC, Student Success Center and Evergreen Hall, where many visually impaired students reside. ACCESS plans to continue expanding the system into additional academic and administrative buildings.

According to Dorsey, this support reflects a broader commitment to universal design and creating campus environments that are accessible for all users.

"As with most things, universal design improves access for everyone," said Dorsey. "For anyone who has been frustrated trying to use their phone to scan a QR code, align the yellow hash marks and click a link, NaviLens 'snaps' to their codes with minimal effort and at a distance."

Leighann Fuller, coordinator of Visually Impaired Services at SIUE, said the technology represents more than convenience for students navigating campus.

"The need to provide independence to all populations is for sure there, and as someone who was sighted, this is the most frustrating part of being blind-the loss of autonomy and independence with navigation," said Fuller. "Many of us get very excited when we can navigate to a place, shop, or do just about anything independently. It is empowering."

ACCESS has also begun discussions with Madison County Transit about possible future NaviLens integrations involving bus stops and transit systems to support more independent travel throughout the surrounding community.

"There's a saying in the disability community, 'nothing about us without us,'" said Dorsey. "We've worked with our visually impaired student population to test areas and provide feedback along the way so we're not just arbitrarily plastering stickers for performative purposes. They're partners in the process."

To learn more about NaviLens implementation at SIUE, explore Accessible Wayfinding on the ACCESS webpage.

Visit a recap of 2026 ACCESS ceremonies and annual Ed Roberts Celebration.

Photos by Howard Ash.