Understanding Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity refers to natural variation in the human brain and how it functions. This includes differences in how people think, learn and process information. In recent years, the concept of neurodiversity has gained increased attention in workplace consulting, as more companies are recognising the value of utilising an inclusive environment that accommodates the unique needs of employees with neurodiverse conditions. For example, look at the images below. Which image do you prefer and why? Some people prefer clean office desks, while others prefer them filled with office supplies. These preferences, which are not immediately apparent, are wired into our brains and are referred to as neurodiversity.
In this article, we will introduce you to the concept of neurodiversity, based on published guidelines: PAS 6463:2022.
Implications of Neurodiversity for Workspace Consulting
Workspace consulting companies like Origameo play an important role in creating inclusive environments that accommodate the unique needs of employees with neurodiverse conditions. This includes working with companies to assess their current spaces and identify areas where improvements can be made to better accommodate employees with conditions such as autism, ADHD and/or dyslexia.
The impact of neurodiversity on the workplace is wide-ranging and complex. For example, employees with autism may benefit from a quieter work environment, while those with ADHD may need more stimulation to stay focused. Similarly, employees with dyslexia may benefit from larger font sizes and high-contrast text, while those with ADHD may benefit from flexible seating arrangements.
The goal of our workspace consultants is to ensure that the built environment is inclusive and meets the needs of all employees, including those with neurodiverse conditions.
Why Workspace Consulting Companies Should Be Taking Neurodiversity into Consideration
There are several reasons why workspace consulting companies like Origameo should be taking neurodiversity into consideration. First, by creating inclusive environments that accommodate the unique needs of employees with neurodiverse conditions, consulting companies can improve customers’ employee satisfaction and retention, leading to increased productivity and profitability. Second, by considering neurodiversity in workspaces, companies are also making a positive impact on society as a whole by promoting inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. Third, if your workspace is inclusive and accommodating to the needs of all employees, including those with neurodiverse conditions, you are likely to attract top talent, as more and more employees are seeking out companies that value diversity and inclusivity.
Areas of Neurodiversity and the Value of Workspace Consulting
There are several areas of neurodiversity that are particularly relevant to workspace consulting.
- Lighting: People with autism and other conditions may be sensitive to certain types of lighting, such as fluorescent lights. A workspace consultant can help companies choose lighting that is more comfortable for employees with these conditions.
- Wayfinding: People with autism and other conditions may have difficulty navigating unfamiliar spaces. A workspace consultant can help companies create clear and consistent signage, making it easier for employees with these conditions to find their way around.
- Flexible Seating: People with ADHD and other conditions may benefit from flexible seating arrangements that allow them to move around during the day. A workspace consultant can help companies choose furniture and design elements that will accommodate these needs.
- Colour Schemes: People with dyslexia and other conditions may benefit from high-contrast colour schemes. A workspace consultant can help companies choose colours and materials that will make text and other visual information easier to read.
- Acoustics: People with autism and other conditions may be sensitive to certain types of sounds, such as background noise. A workspace consultant can help companies choose materials and design elements that will help reduce noise levels.
Conclusion: It should be embraced rather than ignored
In conclusion, it’s important to remember that neurodiversity is a natural variation of the human brain and its functions, and it should be celebrated and embraced rather than ignored or stigmatised. It has implications on the workplace, and it’s important for workspace consulting companies to take it into consideration when providing workspace services. By having a direct impact on creating inclusive environments that accommodate the unique needs of employees with neurodiverse conditions, Origameo and its workspace consultants can improve employee satisfaction and retention in your company, leading to increased productivity and profitability.
In order to create truly inclusive environments, it’s important for workspace consultants to take a holistic approach and analyse the needs of employees with neurodiverse conditions across all areas of the workplace. By working closely with our workspace consultants, you can ensure that your workspaces are inclusive, welcoming and accommodating to the needs of all your employees, including those with neurodiverse conditions.
