IndiKo
The project „Inklusion durch digital unterstütze Kommunikation“ (“Inclusion through digitally supported communication”) (InDiKo, MA23, project no. 38-09) researches and develops new technical possibilities in the field of AAC and implements innovative ideas in the practice of regional organizations in Vienna.
Being able to communicate one’s own wishes and thoughts is a prerequisite for equal participation in life and society. However, many people are confronted with communication barriers, for example due to physical or cognitive limitations or language barriers. Especially in contact with public organizations in the health and social sector, it is extremely important to remove these communication barriers in order to provide optimal and safe care. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods can help with this – for example through symbol-based communication, the use of computer-generated voices or automatic translation.
The key objectives of the InDiKo project are:
- Promoting the inclusion of people with communication impairments through the integration of digitally supported communication in regional organizations,
- Demand-oriented development and improvement of contemporary and free technical and content-related solutions in the context of digital AC, and
- Contribution to establishing the city of Vienna as an innovative health metropolis in the field of digital eS.
In several stages of cooperation, contacts are established with institutions and stakeholders, awareness of the opportunities of digital AC is created and implemented in pilot projects in a practical manner. New collaborations will be developed and existing and successful collaborations with organizations will be continued.
Planned activities include making digital HMI available in Viennese hospitals (cooperation with the Vienna Health Association), implementing emergency call systems suitable for HMI (cooperation with the Federal Ministry of the Interior) and specific HMI services for Viennese social organizations (cooperation with the umbrella organization of Viennese social institutions).
A central task of the InDiKo project is the development and improvement of basic technologies (software and hardware) for digital communication aids with the participation of experts and users. By applying methods of inter- and transdisciplinary research, tools are adapted to practical needs and enhanced with modern, AI-supported functions. Furthermore, the possibilities of special input systems for people with severe motor impairments and adaptable computer voices are being researched and integrated.
The InDiKo project is therefore making a significant contribution to positioning Vienna as an innovative health metropolis and turning it into an inclusive city with opportunities for participation for everyone.


Head of Competence Center IoT and Electronics (ITE)
Senior Lecturer/Researcher
Team
Manager of the Project:
- Stefan Paschek
Project Staff:
- Benjamin Klaus
- Iris Sabine Nemec
- Christoph Veigl