MyChoicePad Lite

In MyChoicePad Lite v1.1 the screen is set to 1 of 3 pre-defined cell sizes with selectable Lucy or Graham voices. With a single press on a cell it will speak the text and place the symbol into the speech bar. 

With a press and hold, a pop-up displays an outline drawing of someone making the sign. Within this box you can select to see a video (only of core vocabulary) of the signing.

On each page it is quite easy to add your own cells. You are able to choose from your installed Makaton symbols or include your own picture and voice. You are also able to move the cells to your preferred position. 

The control buttons for access to purchasing additional signs, setting and editing can be locked hidden, requiring a pass number to gain access. 

So far, so good. However, I found that it offered restriction rather than freedom of expression and choice. It made me think that perhaps it was designed more for the classroom and learning than for general communication.

Although there is a selection of grids to be used, and this selection can be expanded, the choice has to be made using a small box and a textual drop-down menu (which requires scrolling after 7 entries) . Great for me, but not so for the intended user.
The ability to change the subject matter seems to have been omitted, causing the page to grow increasingly longer in order to achieve suitable choice. I know that a single page will be just fine for some, but others need the option and encouragement to expand their abilities. This has been addressed in other apps like ProLoQuo2Go, Predictable and Grid Player.

When I looked at “value for money” it struck me that on the website (http://www.mychoicepad.com/pricing/) it was referencing costs between £1750 - £5000, and that the cost of the full ChoicePad app was only £74.99. I found this to be a disappointing marketing strategy – designed to create a false sense of value. I would also suggest that it will cost far more than £74.99 when all the necessary symbol sets have been purchased.

If the user is only able to communicate using Makaton symbols, then this represents good value for money as it is the only dedicated Makaton option. If the user is able to communicate using PECS, or has purchased a set of Makaton symbols, then there is far more choice and versatility where once it is purchased, the cost ends.