Customize AAC App Without Losing Usability

Customizing an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app can make it more personal and efficient, but it’s easy to overdo it and create a confusing interface. This guide shows you how to adjust vocabulary, layout, and settings so the app remains easy to navigate and use every day. You’ll learn what to change, what to leave alone, and how to avoid common pitfalls that make communication harder.

What You’ll Need

• Access to the AAC app’s settings or editing mode (usually via a gear icon or a dedicated edit button)
• The user’s input on what words and phrases they use most often
• Time to test changes incrementally
• If the app supports backups, ensure you have a recent backup saved before making major changes

Step-by-Step

1. Start with a backup. Before touching any settings, create a backup of the current configuration. Most AAC apps have a backup/restore option in the settings menu. This gives you a safe point to return to if something goes wrong.
2. Observe current usage. Spend a few days watching how the user communicates with the app. Note which buttons they tap most often, which words they search for, and any frustration points. This data tells you what to prioritize.
3. Simplify the home page. The home page should have the most frequently used words and phrases. Remove any buttons that are rarely used or not needed. Aim for a grid that is easy to scan—usually 4 to 8 large buttons per screen. Keep the most important items (like greetings, yes/no, and core verbs) in the same spot every time.
4. Add new vocabulary in categories. When adding new words, place them in logical categories. For example, add “bathroom” under a “Places” folder, not on the main screen. Grouping keeps the main screen uncluttered and helps the user find words faster.
5. Use consistent colors and symbols. If the app allows color-coding (e.g., verbs in green, nouns in yellow), keep it consistent throughout. Don’t change colors randomly—this helps the user recognize word types at a glance. Use the same symbol style for similar words (e.g., real photos for people, icons for actions).
6. Adjust button size and spacing. Increase button size if the user has motor difficulties. Ensure there is enough space between buttons to prevent accidental taps. Most apps let you adjust grid size—start with a smaller grid (e.g., 4×4) rather than a denser one.
7. Customize voice output. Choose a voice that is clear and pleasant to the user. Adjust speaking rate to a comfortable speed—not too fast, not too slow. If the app supports it, save a preferred voice for different contexts (e.g., a louder voice for outdoors).
8. Add personalized phrases. Include phrases that are unique to the user’s life, such as names of family members, favorite foods, or specific requests. Place these in a “Favorites” or “My Phrases” folder for quick access.
9. Set up quick navigation. If the app has a “back” button or a home button, make sure it’s always visible and easy to reach. Avoid deep navigation paths that require multiple taps to get to a common word.
10. Test with the user. After making changes, have the user try the app in a low-pressure situation. Watch for any confusion or hesitation. Ask for feedback: Is anything hard to find? Is the voice okay? Make adjustments based on their responses.
11. Iterate gradually. Don’t change everything at once. Make one or two changes, let the user get used to them, then make more. This prevents overwhelming the user and makes it easier to identify what works.

Common Mistakes

• Overloading the main screen. Adding too many buttons makes it hard to scan and increases cognitive load. Keep it minimal.
• Moving buttons frequently. Consistency is key. If you move the “yes” button to a different spot, the user may accidentally tap “no.” Keep core buttons in the same location.
• Using too many categories. Deep folder hierarchies can be frustrating. Limit to two or three levels of navigation.
• Ignoring the user’s preferences. Customization should reflect the user’s needs, not the caregiver’s or therapist’s preferences. Always involve the user.
• Skipping backup. A failed update can erase hours of work. Always backup before editing.

Tips

• Start with core vocabulary. Words like “more,” “stop,” “help,” and “go” are used across many situations. Ensure these are always accessible from the home page.
• Use visual scene displays (VSD) if appropriate. Some users respond better to photos of real environments (like a kitchen) with hotspots that speak when tapped. This can be more intuitive than a grid.
• Leverage word prediction. If the app has word prediction, enable it to reduce keystrokes. But make sure the predicted words are relevant to the user’s vocabulary.
• Create multiple profiles. If the app is used in different settings (home, school, therapy), create separate profiles with tailored vocabulary. This keeps each environment simple.
• Use the app’s analytics if available. Some apps show which buttons are used most. Use this data to refine the layout.

Troubleshooting

• User is tapping the wrong button. Check button size and spacing. Increase the size or reduce the grid density. Also ensure that the most-used buttons are in the center of the screen where they are easier to reach.
• App is slow to respond. Too many high-resolution images or complex backgrounds can slow down the app. Simplify the visual design by using standard icons and reducing animations.
• User is getting lost in folders. If the user frequently ends up in the wrong folder, consider flattening the structure. Move frequently used items to the main screen or create a “Most Used” folder.
• Changes are not saving. Some apps require you to exit edit mode or press a “Done” button. Make sure you save your changes before closing the app. If the problem persists, check the app’s help section or reinstall (after backup).
• Voice is not working. Check that the device’s volume is up and that the app’s sound settings are enabled. Also ensure that the selected voice is downloaded (some voices require a download).

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I update the vocabulary?

Update as the user’s needs change—maybe every few weeks or when you notice they are searching for new words. Avoid constant changes; give the user time to adapt.

Can I make the app work offline?

Most AAC apps work offline once installed. However, some features like cloud backup or downloading new voices require an internet connection. Check the app’s settings for offline mode.

What if the user accidentally deletes a button?

Most apps have an undo function or a trash folder. If not, restore from your backup. To prevent this, lock the layout in settings if available.

Should I use real photos or symbols?

It depends on the user. Real photos can be more meaningful for some, especially for people and objects. Symbols are often more consistent and easier to recognize for abstract concepts. Try both and see what the user prefers.

How do I add a new word quickly?

Most apps have a “quick add” feature that lets you type a word and assign it to a button. Look for a plus icon or an “add” option in the editing mode.

Is it okay to have different layouts for different activities?

Yes, many apps allow you to create multiple pages or boards. For example, a “Mealtime” board with food-related words and a “Play” board with action words. This can be very effective as long as the user can easily switch between them.

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