As I collect reports from around the Disney disabled community, I have encountered both the extremes on this spectrum. Individual reports can be misleading. Just because someone reports a good experience doesn't mean the next person won't experience some problems. Also, sometimes we need to admit that complainers can sometimes complain LOUDLY and thereby give the impression that ALL THINGS ARE BAD!!!
The question that needs to be asked and addressed is: "Is the DAS System Fundamentally Unfair or Discriminatory to Disabled Persons?"
When Disney changed from the old GAC card system to the new DAS system, there were bound to bumps in the road. But the new system was predicated on the idea that some people were abusing the old system so it needed to be replaced. This should not mean that some disabled people get lost in the shuffle and become marginalized as collateral damage. Regardless of the problems of supposed abuse, the new system needs to work as well for disabled persons as the old. Some of the reports I was hearing was that it wasn't. What will Disney do now?
The problem may very well be in the rollout of the new system. It was a HUGE change. One of the most common complaints I heard were related to improper responses by CMs, even CMs in Guest Relations who were supposed to be the experts and torch bearers of the new system. This problem, then, is perhaps one of appropriate education and training of employees. If the DAS system is fundamentally fair, then the problem is in the rollout, not the system itself. However, some have argued that the CM's behavior is a result of the fundamental unfairness of the system. The CMs are just carrying the water.
At this point, there are still some problems. I have written about some and will continue to write about others. They deserve attention so that those who are being left behind can again be included. After 8 months in play, the DAS system will be challenged with the weight of those it still needs to serve.
Ultimately, the answer will be found in Disney's capacity to react and make adjustments to its official policies on an ongoing basis. If the system possesses an inherent flexibility to adapt to individual needs, then the "policy" becomes more of a guideline. Here is where Disney could take a lesson from disabled people. By necessity, most have mastered the capacity to be flexible and adapt.
When most people's needs can be met by the DAS system, then it is a success for them. When it can be adjusted for some people's individual needs under specific circumstances, then it can also operate successfully for the entire disabled community.
(As always, I welcome you to comment and report on your individual experiences. Can you think of ways the new DAS system can be improved?)