The report gives an account of the needs of the speech impaired for technical aids, and presents a draft of a proposed research and development program coordinated by the Swedish Institute for the Handicapped in collaboration with the International Commission on Technical Aids, Housing and Transportation. The development of communication skills is briefly discussed, and a description of speech impairment categories is presented along with a brief overview of speech rehabilitation in Sweden. The incidence of the various speech disorders in Sweden are reviewed, and the need for further research and development on communication aid is cited. The need of the speech impaired for technical aids is discussed, including training aids, communication aids, aids to natural speech, alternative means of communication, remote communication, and the special needs of mentally retarded speech impaired persons. Some factors to be taken into account in conjunction with introducing, distributing, and handling aids for the speech impaired are considered. The role of technical aids in the rehabilitation and habilitation of persons with speech, language, and voice disorders is discussed. A proposed research and development program for technical aids designed for the speech impaired is described, and the literature on the subject is reviewed along with the latest technological developments in such areas as the following: amplifiers for persons with weak voices; voice generators; aids for persons lacking the faculty of speech and language development; aids to communication using pictures, symbols, or words; writing equipment; aids to schoolwork; aids in the work environment; aids for the mentally retarded; and alternative means of expression. Resources needed to implement the programs are discussed. A list of proposed projects is presented, including needs surveys, research and development, and testing of equipment and aids. A research review is also included. (DLS)