I think there are just a few simple classes of inputs and outputs.

Inputs to an aio from the network

• Ascii text packets. They have commands in them, and/or they have textual data.
• Commands: commands for simple immediate changes in output. Light, sound, movement
• Scripting commands: series of commands and a time base, or commands which represent fixed complex behaviors.
• Text: for output on some sort of text display mechanism.

Inputs to an aio from the environment

• Light
• Button press
• Sound
• Movement (potentiometer, etc).
• The result is usually communication to the network, but could also be only local responses.

Output from an aio to the environment

• Text: on a display of some kind.
• A binary action: motor, light, buzzer etc. on or off.
• A ratiometric action: change a value to effect some change in the system, color or position or size or sound level etc.
• A sequence of events over time: playing a tune, other sequential events (scripted or canned).