Overview
ISO/IEC TS 20071-40:2026 focuses on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) as a critical aspect of user interface component accessibility within the information and communication technology (ICT) domain. Developed by ISO/IEC Joint Technical Committee 1, Subcommittee SC 35, this document provides foundational guidance for the use and implementation of AAC in ICT, establishes key vocabularies, and outlines a framework for future, more detailed standards.
AAC systems enhance or replace verbal and written communication, enabling individuals with diverse communication needs to interact with others and with technology. This standard emphasizes the need for accessible AAC software that is consistent across devices, supports a wide range of users, and is not inherently tied to any particular natural language.
Key Topics
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): Defines AAC as computer-based assistive technology that helps individuals communicate, especially those with speech or language impairments. AAC includes both augmentative (supplementing speech) and alternative (replacing speech) communication methods.
- User Diversity: Addresses the needs of various AAC users, such as non-verbal individuals, users of languages without writing systems, those not served by translators, family members, caregivers, and friends. The importance of accommodating individuals with multiple accessibility needs is emphasized.
- Communication Modalities: Describes multiple communication methods supported by AAC, including pictograms, icons, text-to-speech, on-screen keyboards, and tactile inputs.
- Consistency and Personalization: Recognizes the value of consistent experiences across platforms while allowing for user-specific personalization and saved configurations.
- Guidance and Framework: Outlines basic and advanced considerations for AAC implementation, including the design of user interfaces, ensuring intuitiveness, reducing cognitive effort, minimizing reliance on constant internet access, and supporting different forms of communication (visual, auditory, tactile).
Applications
The guidance contained in ISO/IEC TS 20071-40:2026 applies widely across the ICT industry. Key application areas include:
- Accessible Software Development: Developers of AAC software can utilize this standard to create applications that address diverse communication needs, facilitate both face-to-face and remote communication, and ensure accessibility in line with international best practices.
- Assistive Technology Integration: Provides a framework for integrating AAC solutions into broader assistive technology ecosystems, ensuring compatibility with tools such as screen readers, Braille displays, and alternate input devices.
- Education and Training: Assists educators and trainers in supporting users who rely on AAC by outlining principles for intuitive design, user guidance, and effective personalization.
- Healthcare and Support Services: Informs caregivers, therapists, and support personnel on the selection and configuration of AAC systems that enhance autonomy and participation for individuals with communication challenges.
- Internationalization and Localization: Supports the development of AAC systems that work across different languages and cultures, including those not well-served by existing translation tools or written forms.
Related Standards
For comprehensive accessibility and effective AAC implementation, reference to related international standards is recommended:
- ISO/IEC 29138-1: Standard on user accessibility needs, referenced for identifying and organizing the accessibility goals addressed by AAC users.
- ISO/IEC 22121-3: Guidance on accessible use of virtual keyboards, relevant for AAC systems using on-screen input.
- ISO/IEC 20382-1: Guidance on face-to-face speech translation, complementing AAC solutions for language accessibility.
- ISO/IEC 30071-1: Guidance on accessible ICT products and services development.
By adopting the guidelines set out in ISO/IEC TS 20071-40:2026, organizations can contribute to a more inclusive digital environment, ensuring communication is accessible regardless of users’ speech, language, or physical abilities. This standard serves as a key resource for ensuring that AAC solutions are robust, user-centric, and globally relevant within the ICT accessibility landscape.
Open preview (PDF)Information technology — User interface component accessibility — Part 40: Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
