A consumer viewpoint on the use of technology by disabled persons is presented. Reasons for not solving the problem of technological underutilization are proposed. Goals for evaluating the appropriateness of a technology should not be rigidly defined; persons who do this actually set limitations in the guise of being "realistic." At present there is no one source of information about all technical aids; a better procedure is to seek clinical engineering services to meet individual client needs. Another recommendation centers on the establishment of technical assistance for projects concerning the disabled and the use of data from follow-up procedures. Consumer reports on technical aids and technical equipment demonstration units are also advocated. Comments on pricing and on the government's role in research and development conclude the presentation. (CL)