Appendix 2: Software that can be used to make a communication book

Software

The easiest way to make pages for a symbol-based communication book is to use specially designed resource making software. There are a number of different software products available in the UK. One thing to look out for is what symbol set they use, as different software supports different symbol sets.

Examples of resource making software includes:

• Boardmaker 7

• InPrint 3

• Matrix Maker Plus

You will find Look2Talk templates for use within Boardmaker 7 and InPrint 3 (coming soon) software on Ace Centre's website here.

Alternatively, if you already have software for voice output communication, you may be able to use this to develop and print pages for a communication book. However, developing encoded pages within such software is quite complicated.

Sometimes you can access resource making software through your local Speech and Language Therapy service or through a child or young adult's educational environment. Some charities / non-profit organisations offer access to resource making software. You could also take advantage of a free software trial to get started.