AbstractThe augmentative / alternative communication is a therapeutic strategy in speech and hearing therapy that involves the use of various print media in developing therapeutic dynamics for replacethe oral expression in children and / or adults with communication disorders. Conscious and responsible making decisions is is necessary for the design and implementation of a communicationsystem. It aims to promote the formalization of processes that provide reliability and transparency in the implementation of therapeutic strategies in speech therapy, presenting a reflection on thedetermining factors for selecting a communication system, according to the physical, emotionaland social characteristics of the individual, their role and social participation.Keywords: augmentative and alternative communication, assessment, speech therapy.