Complex assistive devices, environment controls, augmentative and alternative communication systems are part of the rapidly-evolving field of high technology. It requires constant monitoring in order to remain informed of its latest developments. It is paramount to keep updating informational resources as well as products and services offered to clients.
Monitoring technology serves to bring the team’s knowledge up to date taking into account emerging technology (robotics, domotics, digital, multimedia, communication, virtual reality, etc.) and to keep abreast of new features, parameters and operating options.
Taking part in industry research and development in university research centres also allows for project partnerships that focus on new product development; quality improvement; compatibility enhancement with other augmentative and alternative communication aids; product regionalization for the French-speaking market; etc.
As a resource centre and provider of ultra-specialized services, the Centre de réadaptation Marie Enfant was also mandated to raise awareness on the needs of this clientele to different governing bodies and to encourage them to invest in product development in partnership with product developers.