The Legacy and Evolution of the Boardmaker CD: A Cornerstone of Accessible Education
The Boardmaker CD-ROM was a desktop software package developed by Mayer-Johnson (now Tobii Dynavox). It allowed users to create, print, and share communication boards using Picture Communication Symbols (PCS). These simple, clear drawings helped individuals with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and speech delays understand their environment and express their needs.
For decades, the Boardmaker CD (specifically Boardmaker v6) served as the gold standard for special education teachers, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and parents. While the industry has shifted toward cloud-based subscriptions, many users still rely on the physical disc for its reliability and "one-time purchase" model. What is Boardmaker? Boardmaker boardmaker cd
A graphic-based tool used to create printed and interactive visual supports , such as communication boards, schedules, and social stories.
I can provide tailored instructions for setting up a virtual machine or migrating your old files safely. Share public link The Legacy and Evolution of the Boardmaker CD:
The represents one of the most significant eras in the history of special education and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Developed by Mayer-Johnson (now part of Tobii Dynavox ), the classic Boardmaker disc software—culminating in the widely used Boardmaker Version 6 —was the gold standard for creating communication boards, visual schedules, and interactive learning activities for decades.
At the heart of every Boardmaker CD was the Picture Communication Symbols library. The classic egg-faced figures were universally recognized, culturally neutral, and easily understood by individuals with cognitive and communication challenges. Highly Customizable Templates For decades, the Boardmaker CD (specifically Boardmaker v6)
If you still have a Boardmaker CD in a school storage closet, attempting to use it in modern classrooms will present severe roadblocks.
If you cannot afford a modern Boardmaker subscription and your old CD no longer works, several free or affordable alternatives exist: