WordPower software offers a unique vocabulary design for an augmentative/alternative communication device. WordPower combines the features of core vocabulary, spelling and word prediction. The system takes advantage of the fact that while we may have a normal speaking vocabulary of between 10,000 and 30,000 words, a core of just 100 words accounts for nearly 50 percent of words spoken.

WordPower (Speaking Dynamically Pro version)

WordPower uses these 100+ core words in conjunction with spelling and word prediction. Word prediction systems have provided more and more advantages in the last few years and include features such as grammatical prediction, frequency, recency, and the ability to easily add words.

WordPower was originally designed for an individual in need of an augmentative communication device based on words. A vocabulary based on pre-stored sentences would not meet his communication needs. Although he could see the advantage of a picture-based system with symbol sequencing, he did not want to learn the complex language coding system. At the same time, he wanted more than a system based on spelling and word prediction. WordPower provided him a fast and efficient language, with minimal time and effort required for learning the system.

The core words of WordPower are categorized, color-coded and alphabetized for easy access. The design uses the Fitzgerald Key arrangement, which follows a left to right linguistic order. Question words and people are positioned on the left of the display, followed by action words, then descriptors, and finally object nouns.

Picture WordPower (Viking Software version)

Picture WordPower is included as part of the WordPower vocabulary package. Picture WordPower is a word-based vocabulary for individuals whose literacy or physical accessing skills do not allow them to use WordPower. Picture WordPower consists of single-hit words, category-based words, and spelling with word prediction. The core words of Picture WordPower are categorized, color-coded and alphabetized for easy access.

WordPower and Picture Word Power software requires either Speaking Dynamically Pro or VS Communicator Pro communication software to run.