What is it?
AAC assessment and feature matching is a collaborative process for identifying communication supports that fit an individual's strengths, needs, preferences, environments, and communication goals. Rather than selecting a system based on a diagnosis or choosing a particular product first, feature matching considers characteristics such as vocabulary and language organization, symbols, access method, voice output, portability, customization, literacy supports, and communication needs across settings.
How to use it?
Begin by learning how the individual currently communicates and identifying where communication opportunities or barriers occur throughout the day. Consider the features needed for language, physical and sensory access, literacy, social interaction, and participation across environments. Provide opportunities to explore and trial multiple AAC options during authentic activities, gathering input from the AAC user, family, educators, therapists, and other communication partners. Assessment should be ongoing; systems and supports may need to change as the communicator develops new skills, experiences new environments, or identifies new preferences and goals.
Why use it?
There is no single AAC system that is best for every communicator. Thoughtful feature matching helps teams move beyond selecting a device based on appearance, familiarity, or diagnosis and instead identify supports that meet the individual's unique communication needs. An ongoing assessment process can improve access, reduce abandonment, and help ensure that AAC continues to support meaningful, autonomous communication as the person grows and changes.
