Updated February 2026

Speech-Generating Device (SGD) overlays are static displays with manually inserted pages that may include symbols, photographs, and/or written words to support communication. Selecting the overlay that best fits the individual’s communication needs, abilities, and environments is essential for effective use.

Contact Vizually Speaking today to learn how customized Visual Aids and Strategies can decrease undesired behaviour(s), improve communication, promote independence, and increase self-confidence. Through our dynamic presentation, you will:

✓  Uncover the importance of using customized Visual Aids and Strategies.

✓  Explore the wide range of benefits of customized Visual Aids and Strategies.

✓  Learn practical ways to overcome communication barriers.

✓  Support independence and decrease undesired behaviours.

✓  Access  NEW and valuable resources.

Key Consideration

The most effective SGD is not the most advanced, but rather the one that best matches the individual’s communication abilities, motor skills, sensory needs, environments, and goals.

Visual Hierarchy of SGDs

     (Most concrete → Most abstract)

→ Real objects with voice output

→ Photos with recorded messages

→ Symbols or line drawings

→ Words with voice output

→ Typed text

→ spoken speech

Vizually Speaking understands that finding time in today’s highly demanding world to create customized visual aids and strategies can be a great challenge. Vizually Speaking is committed to working collaboratively, providing step-by-step support and assisting in the development and implementation of customized visual aids and strategies.

Contact us today for your FREE consultation.

Types of Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs)

Low-Tech SGDs

Best for beginning communicators, concrete thinkers, or individuals who benefit from simplicity.

Single-message devices

Example: Pressing a button to say “help,” “more,” or “I need a break.”
Helpful for: young children, individuals with autism, early ABI recovery, or dementia.

Multi-message button devices

Example: Several buttons for basic needs like “eat,” “drink,” “bathroom,” or “finished.”
Helpful for: home routines, school participation, and daily care.

Static display communication boards/books

Example: A laminated board or book with pictures, symbols, or words that match recorded messages.
Helpful for: individuals who benefit from consistency and predictable layouts.

Mid-Tech SGDs

Support growing vocabulary and participation while maintaining structure.

Sequential-message devices

Example: Pressing a button to play a short sentence or step-by-step message (e.g., morning routine).
Helpful for: routines, storytelling, or therapy sessions.

Grid-based voice-output devices

Example: Each picture location always says the same word or phrase when pressed.
Helpful for: individuals who rely on motor memory and consistency.

Switch-accessible SGDs

Example: A switch activated by hand, head, or foot to make choices or speak messages.
Helpful for: individuals with physical or motor challenges.

High-Tech SGDs

Allow for expanded language, flexibility, and independence when appropriate.

Dynamic display devices

Example: Touchscreen devices where selecting a symbol opens new pages with more choices.
Helpful for: individuals ready for symbolic communication and language growth.

Tablet-based SGDs (AAC apps)

Example: iPad apps using symbols, photos, or text that speak aloud when selected.
Helpful for: school, work, and community communication.

Text-to-speech devices

Example: Typing messages that are spoken aloud.
Helpful for: individuals with strong literacy skills.

Vizually Speaking understands that finding time in today’s highly demanding world to create customized visual aids and strategies can be a great challenge. Vizually Speaking is committed to working collaboratively, providing step-by-step support and assisting in the development and implementation of customized visual aids and strategies.

Contact us today for your FREE consultation.