When considering technology that can support the user in the workplace with their writing and productivity, it is important to find technology that works for you. It is important that the design of the software doesn’t get in the way of the function of the software. Everyone is different and as such will experience different levels of distractibility, confusion, or overwhelm depending upon the user interface of the software. This is why choosing assistive technology for a user should be needs-based and not based simply on the specifications of the software or price.
Userability is extremely important to consider because if a user gets software that is a great fit for their unique set of needs then they will be engaged with using the software.
Lightkey
One of our more recent additions to our group of assistive technology solutions is Lightkey. Lightkey is a real-time spelling and grammar checker that also improves productivity within the workplace as well as within university.
The video below shows how Lightkey works:
Common questions asked about Lightkey.
Does it require a high spec laptop?
Lightkey is designed to use a minimum level of processing power on a PC. You will barely know that it is running apart from the useful suggestions that come up as you type.
Does it require an Internet connection?
No, Lightkey operates entirely offline which means you can take Lightkey wherever your laptop goes. This also makes it safe as your data is not stored in a cloud, but is entirely on your machine.
Does Lightkey only work in Microsoft Word?
No, Lightkey works across many applications on your computer, including the whole Microsoft package and also has a plugin for Chrome and Microsoft Edge as well. Additionally, by simply pressing alt and clicking your mouse, you can force Lightkey to work within any other application.
Is my ATW / DSA licence only valid for a year?
No, ATW licences are valid for 5 years and DSA licences are valid for the duration of a student's course.
Can I use Lightkey in other languages?
Yes, Lightkey has the functionality to work across 80+ languages. So if you need to switch languages within documents as you type, the suggestions will follow the language of your choice. Once you have set the languages that you choose to use within the setup menus, you are good to go and the rest is up to you.
We hope that these answers have been useful to you. It is important for the team at Aventido that individuals that use assistive technology get the technology that works for them and we are all here to help you in that process. Please do not hesitate to contact us.
