AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION: CAN IT BE A STRATEGIC RESOURCE IN BUSINESS?

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) encompasses all those methods and systems that support or replace spoken language, facilitating the expression and understanding of ideas. It may include gestures, pictogramssymbol boards or electronic devices that convert images into speech. 

Although their use is traditionally associated with educational or therapeutic settings, more and more companies are recognising their importance in workplace integration and inclusive customer service.

The importance of AAC in the business environment

In organisations, augmentative and alternative communication has a dual role:

• Inclusion in the labour marketAAC: enables people with speech difficulties to actively participate in meetings, contribute ideas and integrate equally into their work teams. Implementing AAC demonstrates a commitment to diversity and equal opportunities.
• Inclusive customer serviceCompanies that are prepared to interact with customers using AAC reinforce their reputation as socially responsible, accessible and approachable brands. This translates into a better experience for all users and a differential value compared to the competition.

But what is the role of communication agencies?

Our work is not just about getting messages across, we also want them to be accessible and universal for any audience. Some ways in which we can support companies are:

• Consultancies to implement visual, symbolic and digital resources adapted to AAC.
• Training for internal teams to improve interaction with colleagues and clients using augmentative and alternative communication systems.
• Development of inclusive communication strategies to improve corporate image.                                                                                    

In this way, companies comply with accessibility criteria and, in addition, promote innovation and strengthen their links with society.  

Therefore, augmentative and alternative communication is no longer limited to being a support resource in clinical contexts, it can also become a transformative tool for companies seeking to be inclusive and competitive in the market. Integrating it into corporate strategy means committing to a more open business culture that is committed to diversity.

At InfluenceSuite we don't communicate to inform. We do it to alter the state of things. Because standing out is not enough: we help brands stop looking like everyone else in Spanish or any other language.