Rate enhancement programs can assist people with disabilities in becoming more efficient and accurate computer users!  Specialized programs which predict words, correct words and more, are not unique to assistive technology.  Programs that provided additional text utilities have developed rapidly in the computer industry for all kinds of generalized use and for specific target populations such as medical transcriptionists.

This section will take a look at some of the more broad range categories and applications of rate enhancement programs, with specific reference to the applications developed by and for the assistive technology industry.  (Please note: This site currently contains information about the Windows operating system.  We will add Mac specific information based on user demand).

Generally, all add-on or stand alone rate enhancement programs and utilities can be used on the computer with any input system such as an alternate keyboard or onscreen keyboard.  Each program performs different functions and the relevance or appropriateness of program functions to each user and their computer setup must be determined during assessment and trial.

For most people, whether they are assistive technology users or not, using one or a combination of the rate enhancement programs mentioned here can help with increasing productivity, improving speed and accuracy of computer use and making some tasks easier and 'possible' for some.

Programs range from the very simple one-word-at-a-time large print word prediction programs all the way up to the complex 'scripting and programming required' macro programs to help automate tasks.  99% of computer users with or without disabilities will find some program amongst this huge range to help with their computer input.