PiCom

PiCom is an Augmentative Alternative Communication system (AAC), which can be used within healthcare systems such as the UK's Nhs, the schools systems, at home or when out and about. PiCom is a picture symbol communicator with text to speech or recorded voice output, that runs on a wide range of tablets, phones and computers. PiCom is designed to assist people who have difficulty speaking and for whom symbol communication is deemed appropriate.

This could be in a school/educational setting or in a medical situation (short or long term). PiCom has the great advantage in being able to open and create communication boards or grids with the Open Board Format (.obf or obz). This means that boards can be freely exchanged between users, creators and the AAC Apps that can support Open Board format. When you download PiCom, it includes a range of well established communicator grids from experts in the field.

You can then edit these, changing images and names to help the communication aid user. PiCom also has is own set of communication symbols, as well as linking to other symbols and the ability to use your own photos (and sounds). The advantages continue, because you can edit or create boards in PiCom, and share to your user's device or computer - the PiCom app and boards will be the same on all devices, including within a web browser. PiCom is also highly accessible for people who might have physical difficulties using a device. PiCom can be operated with bluetooth switches, Microsoft X Box Controller and Microsoft Adaptive Control, special external mice, some novel light touch control methods as well as face control. Face control requires more.

Recent devices with high quality cameras and sufficient computing power. PiCom has some helpful visual features, allowing background and button colours to be modified extensively. It has a high contrast display and a zoom capability. The zoom capability provides the option for a user to work on one single very large communicator board, and move to distinct areas of the board which are displayed on the screen in detail. Picom Feature List 1. PiCom includes a range of proven communicator templates, that can be used immediately and expanded or edited. Connects to the text to speech voices on your computer, giving a wide range of voice choices in many languages 3.

You can import (and export) existing created communication boards that are in the Open Board Format (file format.obf or.obz) 4. Edit buttons on exi. The interface is organized for quick access to the most frequently used functions, reducing the time needed to complete common tasks. Advanced options are available for users who want to customize their experience and optimize the application for their workflow. Data sync and backup features help users keep their information safe and accessible across multiple devices when needed. The application supports a wide range of file formats and integrates with popular services to extend its usefulness.

Performance optimization ensures smooth operation even on older hardware, making it accessible to a broad user base. Comprehensive documentation and in-app guidance help new users get started quickly while power users can explore advanced capabilities. Users can organize content, apply filters, and access key functions through an intuitive layout that minimizes learning curve. Cross-platform support and cloud integration extend the application's reach across different devices and ecosystems. Built-in tutorials and contextual help ensure that users can discover and master features at their own pace.