About Benetech
Benetech is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to empowering communities with software for social good. The company was founded in 1989 by Jim Fruchterman, who believed that technology could be used to solve some of the world's most pressing problems. Since then, Benetech has been at the forefront of developing innovative software solutions that have helped millions of people around the world.
One of Benetech's core values is accessibility. The company believes that everyone should have access to technology and the benefits it provides, regardless of their background or circumstances. To this end, Benetech has developed a range of software tools and platforms that are designed to be easy to use and accessible to all.
One example of Benetech's work in this area is its Bookshare platform. Bookshare is an online library that provides access to over 800,000 books and other materials for people with print disabilities such as blindness or dyslexia. The platform uses advanced technology such as optical character recognition (OCR) and text-to-speech conversion to make these materials accessible in a variety of formats.
Another area where Benetech has made significant contributions is in human rights documentation and advocacy. The company's Human Rights Program works with partners around the world to develop tools and technologies that can help document human rights abuses and hold perpetrators accountable.
For example, Benetech developed Martus, a secure information management system designed specifically for human rights organizations operating in dangerous environments. Martus allows users to securely store sensitive information such as witness statements or evidence related to human rights abuses without fear of reprisal from authorities or other actors.
In addition to its work on accessibility and human rights, Benetech also develops software solutions for education, poverty alleviation, environmental conservation, disaster response, and more. Some examples include:
- DIAGRAM Center: A research center focused on developing accessible graphics for students with disabilities.
- Miradi: A project management tool designed specifically for conservation organizations.
- FrontlineSMS: An open-source messaging platform used by NGOs around the world for communication during disasters or emergencies.
Overall, Benetech's mission is clear: using technology for social good. By developing innovative software solutions across a wide range of fields - from education to environmental conservation - they are making a real difference in people's lives around the world.
If you're interested in learning more about how you can get involved with Benetech or support their work financially through donations or partnerships please visit their website at www.benetech.org