Case Study: Vortex Optics + Deaf Services Unlimited  

At Deaf Services Unlimited, we believe accessibility should never be complicated. That’s why we love spotlighting the organizations we partner with who share that same belief. Recently, we connected with Vortex Optics, a Wisconsin-based company known for manufacturing and selling high-quality sports optics—binoculars, riflescopes, spotting scopes, rangefinders, and more. (Learn more at vortexoptics.com.) 

Maura Starkey of Vortex Optics generously shared her perspective on accessibility, the challenges her team faced, and the impact of working with DSU. Read below for Maura’s insight and experience. 

A Commitment to Customer Service for Everyone 

When asked how Vortex Optics approaches accessibility and inclusivity, Maura’s answer was simple: 

“We try to give exceptional customer service to anyone and everyone.” 

That philosophy mirrors what Vortex is known for in the optics industry—their VIP Warranty is a no-questions-asked promise to repair or replace any product that isn’t performing as expected. Just as their products are designed to meet customers where they are, their commitment to communication access ensures that every customer interaction is equally supported. Additionally, this approach embodies DSU’s philosophy that communication access isn’t just for the individual who is Deaf or hard-of-hearing, but it is equally for their hearing counterpart, creating mutual, meaningful connection.  

The Road to Access Services 

Many organizations encounter roadblocks when trying to provide communication access for the first time—navigating providers, figuring out workflows, and managing logistics. For Vortex Optics, however, the path was much smoother. 

“I found you early on and felt that you were the easiest and most helpful company to deal with. I’m really glad I made the choice to go with you.” 

Instead of struggling through trial and error, Vortex was able to connect with DSU right away and establish an effortless process. 

From First Time to First Choice 

Before working with DSU, Vortex Optics hadn’t yet used interpreting or captioning services. Maura put it simply: 

“You were the first.” 

That first experience mattered—and it set the tone for a lasting partnership. Today, if Vortex Optics needs communication access, their process is simple: 

“No workflow, I would just call you up for services if needed.” 

For their team, accessibility doesn’t require a complex system—it requires a trusted partner who makes it easy. 

Why DSU? The Best Customer Experience 

When asked why she chose Deaf Services Unlimited, Maura didn’t hesitate: 

“Found you online and you had the best customer experience.” 

For Maura and her team, that first impression mattered. In a world where many organizations struggle to even get a response from access providers, DSU stood out for its responsiveness, clarity, and willingness to guide them through the process from the very beginning. 

At Deaf Services Unlimited, we know that providing interpreters and captioners is only one part of the equation. The other, equally important part, is the behind-the-scenes support that ensures everything runs smoothly. From quick scheduling turnaround to clear communication about logistics, our coordinators are there every step of the way to remove the stress and uncertainty that can often come with arranging communication access. 

For Vortex Optics, that ease of use has been the biggest impact. What could have been a complicated process instead became straightforward and worry-free. As Maura put it: 

“You made it very easy to get the services needed.” 

That simple statement reflects what we strive for with every client interaction—making accessibility not just possible, but effortless. It’s a difference that allows organizations like Vortex to focus on what they do best, knowing that DSU is handling the rest. 

Advice for Other Organizations 

We asked Maura what she would say to other organizations who are considering access services for the first time. Her advice was direct: 

“To give your company a call. You made it really simple to get this done.” 

For companies like Vortex Optics—known for their clarity, precision, and service—simplicity and effectiveness matter. Their experience shows that getting started with communication access doesn’t have to be overwhelming.    

At Deaf Services Unlimited, we’re honored to partner with organizations like Vortex Optics that prioritize inclusivity alongside excellence. Vortex has built a reputation on precision, clarity, and trust—values that align seamlessly with our own mission. Just as their optics bring the world into sharper focus for hunters, birders, and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere, our role is to ensure conversations, events, and customer interactions are equally clear and accessible to all. 

Accessibility isn’t just a service—it’s a reflection of a company’s commitment to every individual they serve. By removing barriers to communication, organizations create stronger connections, reinforce their values, and set a standard of inclusivity that resonates far beyond a single interaction. 

That’s why we make it our mission to simplify the process, provide highly qualified interpreters and captioners, and deliver the same reliability and customer-first experience that companies like Vortex Optics provide in their own industries. 

If your organization is ready to bring that same level of clarity and inclusivity to your customers, employees, or community, we’d love to help. Contact Deaf Services Unlimited today, and see just how simple—and impactful—making communication accessible can be. 

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