1. Text-to-Speech software can make reading less stressful   

Reading is by far one of the most common areas where people with dyslexia can find that they struggle. And from emails to messages, white papers and social media sites, some jobs can necessitate a lot of it.

Text-to-speech assistive technology devices can help maximise productivity by converting written text into spoken words so they can be experienced aurally, taking the page out of the equation, helping improve comprehension and beat stress. Users can also use it to proofread their own work, which can help them catch errors they might otherwise have missed. Check out our range of supports to see what tech can help.

2. …And Speech-to-Text software can do the same for writing  

Writing can also be a challenge for some people with dyslexia, particularly when it comes to spelling and letter order. Voice recognition software allows users to dictate as opposed to type, and it can speed up and streamline the creation process when lots of text must be produced quickly. Some systems also incorporate a readback option so users can experience it aurally, to make it easier to proof when reading and spelling are stressful.  

3. Dyslexia-Friendly font choices are an important switch to make 

Dyslexia-friendly fonts aren’t strictly an assistive technology per se, but they’re an adaptive methodology for working with tech that can transform the reading experience. Some fonts are specifically designed for use by dyslexic readers, incorporating features such as increased spacing between letters and a larger bottom curve on the letters some readers find helpful. Other dyslexic readers simply prefer to use a sans-serif font like Arial or Calibri to eliminate unnecessary flicks and ligatures that can make the letters harder to read. It’s a personal choice on the part of the reader, but many agree that font can make a massive difference to the stress and difficulty level. 

4. Time management software can support dyslexic employees who struggle with sequencing  

Organisation might not be easy for people with dyslexia: some find they have a weaker working memory than their peers, some struggle with executive dysfunction, and some simply find organising workloads an issue because they struggle with sequencing tasks. Digital organisers like calendars, project management software and task lists can help employees keep track of their responsibilities and deadlines, and some organisers even include reminder features that can help employees stay on top of their tasks and to-dos.  

5. Some specialist Text-to-Speech devices can keep company data even safer, too.   

Data has to be kept secure. That’s one of the cornerstones of working with data of any kind: making sure that only the right people have access to it, and that the bond of trust between customers and clients and the businesses they use isn’t broken by an external hand. That’s why reading technologies such as Secure Reader 2 that put data security and GDPR protection first are such a hot topic – employees with dyslexia might need Text-to-Speech support, but it’s also an employer’s duty to make sure the support they choose can’t compromise data security.