Hi Jodie,
I'm not sure you'll find a bit of software that is the same for MAC-PC.
Many text-to-speech systems get around the 'reading from all documents' problem by reading from the clipboard. If the client specifically wants to voice powerpoint presentations, try powertalk by Steve Lee [1].
As you say, there are lots to consider, I'd think about a system that can also have some 'communication tools' available to, e.g. pre-stored utterances. For example, WinBag. If this isn't needed there are loads of options around, e.g. Penfriend. For MAC, I expect Keystrokes/P2G will be your main options: http://www.assistiveware.com/products.php
Cheers
Simon
[1] http://www.oatsoft.org/Software/PowerTalk
-----Original Message-----
From: A discussion list for Assistive Technology professionals. [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Jodie Rogers
Sent: Friday, July 30, 2010 11:41 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: text to speech software
Hi,
I have a client with communication difficulties however has no physical access issues and spends much time on his computer both at home and at local user groups giving presentations etc... he has a communication aid but is keen to have an integrated system. The solution is obviously text-speech software but there is such a huge range - can anyone recommend software that 1) has word sentence prediction when typing, 2) can read all documents including powerpoint 3) has realistic voice output 4) has an equivalent system for MAC as he has both a MS based laptop and IPad (this is not so essential). *it does not have to be free software.
Many thanks
Jodie
Jodie Rogers
Occupational Therapist
East Kent Adult CAT Service
Medical Physics Dept
Kent and Canterbury Hospital
Ethelbert Toad
Canterbury CT1 3NG
Tel: 01227 864083
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