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Case Study: Assistive Technology Design for AAC
Reading time 8 mins
Overview:
Assistive technology design consists of systems, devices, and software developed to enhance or maintain an individual’s ability to perform tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Globally, more than 2.5 billion people need one or more assistive products, making integrated services important. In this field, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technologies are designed to support individuals with speech and language impairments, enabling them to communicate effectively—whether through speech-generating devices, symbol-based software, or text-to-speech applications. People with disabilities are the unseen innovators who shape the world we live in – much of what we consider “mainstream convenience tech” (e.g. voice-to-text) began as an AT: Solutions developed out of necessity to help individuals overcome barriers often end up transforming daily life for everyone.
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Ben Mazur
Managing Director
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Introduction
Assistive Technology design is the origin story of the majority of ‘mainstream convenience tech’ that most of us use every day. Voice-to-text and speech-to-text applications were designed for people with limited mobility or speech. Virtual assistants like Alexa or Siri were based on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) solutions for people with language or speech impediments. The list goes on: Smart home automation, predictive text and autocorrect, touchscreens and gestures were created for mobility-impaired users, people with dyslexia or dysgraphia, or as alternatives for people unable to use a mouse/keyboard.
This highlights that assistive technology design is far from a solution aimed at a pre-defined demographic, but rather, scalable and adaptable innovations with a universal appeal. At the same time, they are essential tools that empower individuals with disabilities to live healthier, more productive, and independent lives while participating fully in education, employment, leisure, fitness or sports, and civic activities – an actual embodiment of inclusive design. These technologies span multiple categories, including:
- Communication: AAC devices and software
- Mobility: Wheelchairs, exoskeletons, smart prosthetics
- Vision and Hearing: Screen readers, hearing aids, braille displays
- Cognitive: Memory aids, learning tools, scheduling apps
- Environmental control: Smart home integrations and IoT-enabled systems
At Ignitec®, we specialise in designing assistive devices and systems that combine technical feasibility with human-centred and inclusive design. Our experience spans embedded hardware, software development, custom enclosures, UX/UI, and scalable manufacturing, making us a reliable partner for startups and global organisations tackling complex accessibility and inclusivity challenges. To discuss how we can help you design your next product for enhanced inclusivity, accessibility, and scalability, schedule a free and confidential consultation with an expert on our team.
The Problem
Assistive technology design, especially for AAC solutions, must consider many factors to be deployed successfully. The World Health Organisation says over 2.5 billion people need one or more assistive products globally. With an ageing global population and a rise in noncommunicable diseases (e.g. cancer, cardiovascular or chronic respiratory diseases), an estimated 3.5 billion people will need AT by 2025. Yet only 1 in 10 have access to the assistance they need – especially in low-income countries. Many face barriers due to high costs, lack of awareness, limited availability, lack of customisation options, or inadequate product ranges.
The need for assistive technology design and development isn’t limited to a select group. Over a lifetime, all of us—or someone we know—will likely face temporary or permanent challenges that restrict our ability to perform essential functions such as seeing, hearing, moving, or speaking. These challenges may arise from ageing, illness, accident, or lifelong disability. The assistive technology design needs to consider scalability, customisation and adaptability, and inclusivity for both current and future users.
The Solution
AAC solutions are used in a variety of industries beyond personal healthcare:
- Education: Classroom AAC tools help students with speech or language delays participate in lessons.
- Workplace: Speech-to-text and alternative input methods make workplaces more inclusive.
- Telehealth: Remote AAC tools connect clinicians and patients with communication difficulties.
- Smart Homes: Voice-controlled lights, door openers, and thermostats were initially designed for users with mobility or dexterity impairments but are now mainstream thanks to IoT and smart assistants.
These cross-sector innovations demonstrate how AAC tools don’t just assist—they enhance human potential.
Case Study: Ignitec’s Assistive Technology Design for Smartbox
A UK-based leader in AAC, Smartbox develops hardware and software that enable people with complex communication needs to express themselves and live more independently.
The Customisation Challenge: Smartbox had been creating innovative solutions for AAC for over 15 years but was encountering challenges in meeting the demand for customised products, particularly their Grid Pad 12 tablet. In addition, they needed to create a second screen for their flagship Grid Pad 12—a speech-generating device—amid pandemic-driven constraints. This screen would visually display the user’s output speech, increasing accessibility for communication partners. However, with supply chain disruptions and health safety concerns, they needed a development partner who could co-design, prototype, and source a safe and feasible solution.
What we did at Ignitec:
- Retrofit design of a second screen compatible with existing Smartbox hardware
- Rapid prototyping and iterative user testing during lockdown conditions
- Component sourcing within disrupted global supply chains
- Manufacturing support, including the use of antimicrobial plastic additives to reduce virus transmission risk
Results
The second screen developed through our partnership enhanced communication clarity and visibility from multiple angles, improving interactions in both quiet and noisy settings. Though we lack quantitative metrics, qualitative feedback confirmed its value as a communication aid that positively impacted users’ daily lives.
Impact & Lessons Learned
Our partnership with Smartbox taught us that great assistive technology design is about more than functionality. It’s about adaptability, inclusive and enhanced user experience, and empathy. Design decisions—from antimicrobial surfaces to screen visibility—can significantly impact a user’s safety, dignity, and ability to communicate and connect.
At Ignitec, we learned the importance of:
- Designing with—not just for—users
- Planning for sourcing constraints early
- Keeping scalability and compatibility in mind
- Thinking beyond functionality to emotional usability
Conclusion: Inclusivity is at the heart of scalability
Assistive technology design isn’t niche—it’s universal. When inclusivity is considered, it addresses needs we all face at different points in life and frequently sparks innovations that transform industries and the day-to-day lives of people across the spectrum of abilities.
Designing for accessibility is not a constraint—it’s a catalyst.
By co-developing the Smartbox retrofit screen, we contributed to a world where more people can be seen, heard, and understood. By recognising that people with disabilities are often the hidden trailblazers of technological progress, we can shift from designing for the few to designing for everyone.
Let’s make the world more accessible—together. Whether you’re building the next AAC breakthrough or creating inclusive, innovative environments, we’ll help you design and deliver devices that empower. Book a discovery call to talk to our team about your assistive tech innovation and what we can do to help.
Beyond accessibility: How assistive technologies enhance daily life for all
How to make accessible technology for elderly users
Inclusive Design: Creating Products for People with Disabilities
FAQ’s
What is assistive technology design?
Assistive technology design involves creating tools, devices, or software that help people with disabilities perform everyday tasks more independently. It involves understanding users’ physical, cognitive, or sensory needs and designing tailored solutions. The goal is to reduce barriers and improve quality of life.
Why is assistive technology design important?
Assistive technology design ensures that people with disabilities or impairments can access tools that enable communication, mobility, and participation in daily life. Without inclusive design, many individuals are excluded from education, employment, and social interaction. Good design supports dignity, autonomy, and inclusion.
How does assistive technology support communication?
Assistive technologies such as speech-generating devices and symbol-based software allow people with speech impairments to express themselves clearly. These tools are particularly important for those using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Effective design can ensure usability across environments, from classrooms to public spaces.
Which disabilities benefit from assistive technology design?
People with physical, cognitive, sensory and speech impairments can all benefit from assistive technologies. These tools support individuals with conditions such as cerebral palsy, ALS, autism, stroke, or age-related decline. Assistive tech also helps people recovering from injury or surgery.
What are some examples of assistive technology in daily life?
Examples include screen readers, hearing aids, communication apps, powered wheelchairs and adapted computer interfaces. Voice-activated smart home devices and visual display aids are also standard. Many mainstream technologies today originated from assistive tech innovations.
Who uses Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?
AAC is used by individuals who have difficulty speaking due to conditions like cerebral palsy, autism, motor neurone disease or stroke. It includes unaided methods like sign language and aided systems like voice-output communication devices. AAC supports people of all ages and needs.
Why do assistive technologies matter for ageing populations?
As people age, they often face declining vision, hearing, mobility or memory. Assistive technologies help maintain independence, safety and quality of life for older adults. These tools reduce reliance on caregivers and extend the ability to live at home.
How is an assistive technology designed for accessibility?
Designers start with user research to understand specific needs and then create prototypes that can be tested and adapted. Accessibility features such as alternative input methods, adjustable settings, and visual cues are built in. Inclusive design ensures usability for a wide range of users.
What challenges are there in designing assistive technologies?
Challenges include sourcing suitable materials, adapting to diverse user needs, and ensuring affordability. Compatibility with existing systems or devices can also be limited. Balancing functionality, aesthetics, and accessibility is key.
Which industries use assistive technology design?
Healthcare, education, social care, rehabilitation, and consumer electronics all benefit from assistive tech design. Smart home and mobility sectors also rely heavily on it. The influence of assistive tech is growing in mainstream industries through inclusive innovation.
What is the difference between assistive and adaptive technology?
Assistive technology is designed to help individuals with disabilities perform tasks they might otherwise struggle with. Adaptive technology refers to modifications made to existing tools or environments to make them more accessible. Both aim to remove barriers and enhance participation.
Why are smart homes featured in assistive technology design?
Smart homes include features like voice control, motion sensors, and automated lighting that support independent living. These technologies enhance safety, comfort, and accessibility for people with limited mobility or cognitive challenges. Many smart features were originally developed to support disability.
How has assistive technology influenced mainstream products?
Features like voice assistants, predictive text and hands-free controls were initially developed for people with disabilities. These technologies were later adopted for convenience and are now part of everyday devices. This influence highlights how inclusive design benefits everyone.
What role does user feedback play in assistive technology design?
User feedback ensures that the technology meets real needs and works in varied contexts. It helps designers identify usability issues, refine features and improve comfort. Co-design with users is vital for success and adoption.
When is assistive technology most needed in someone's life?
It may be needed from birth, after an injury or illness, or as part of the ageing process. The need often arises when someone’s ability to perform essential tasks becomes limited. For many, assistive tech is crucial throughout life.
Why aren't more assistive technologies widely available?
Barriers include high development costs, limited funding, lack of awareness, and complex procurement processes. In some regions, regulatory or distribution hurdles also slow access. Increasing awareness and collaboration can help improve availability.
What impact does assistive technology have on education?
It enables learners with disabilities to access curriculum content, communicate with peers, and engage more fully. Tools like speech-to-text, magnification software, and AAC apps support inclusive classrooms, creating more equitable learning environments.
Which design principles are key in assistive technology?
Usability, adaptability, durability, and user-centred design are critical. Technologies must be simple to operate, safe, and meet specific functional needs. Flexibility is essential to accommodate a wide range of abilities.
How does assistive technology reduce caregiver burden?
By enabling users to carry out tasks independently, assistive technologies reduce the need for constant assistance. This gives caregivers more time and eases emotional and physical stress. It also supports a more balanced dynamic between the carer and the user.
What is the future of assistive technology design?
Emerging trends include AI-powered communication aids, brain-computer interfaces, and more integrated smart home ecosystems. The focus is shifting toward seamless, inclusive design that fits naturally into users’ lives. With growing demand, innovation will continue to expand rapidly.
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