The neurodiverse workplace

Brain differences in the workplace

Diversity in the workplace used to revolve mainly around visible differences such as gender, age or ethnicity. Now there is also room for a less visible diversity: that of the brain. 'Neurodiversity' stands for all the ways in which an individual brain is different from average. Think of brain variations such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia, high sensitivity, giftedness and more. Neurodiversity assumes that these are natural, valuable variations. The way people think, feel and perceive differs, as do physical characteristics such as eye color or height.

According to neurodiversity expert Saskia Schepers, about 20% of the population consists of neurodivergent people. So about 1 in 5 colleagues works with a unique brain. Organizations that exploit the potential of this increase their innovative power, agility and inclusiveness. Because neurodivergent employees can have challenges around stimulus processing, social interaction or structure; At the same time, they often bring unique talents with them. From hyperfocus, strong detail and analytical talent to great creativity.

Conditions

There are also preconditions. Neurodiversity in the workplace requires attention to:

• Awareness and an open culture 
  It is good if managers and HR have knowledge of neurodiversity. It is even more important that they are open to discussions about this. Provide neurodivergent employees with psychological safety so they can indicate what they need.  
  
  
• Structure and clear communication
  Neurodivergent colleagues thrive on predictability, clear instructions and visual support. Helpful are: checklists, visual schedules, clear expectations and a buddy or mentor system.
  
  
• Flexible working methods and activity-based working
  Work processes and workplaces must be flexible enough to meet individual needs. Activity-based working responds to this: employees are given freedom of choice. There is room for concentration, calling, meeting, meeting. In short, for peace and quiet and for excitement.

Zones

Bright lights, loud noises or colleagues walking by can distract everyone. If you are neurodivergent, this is extra sensitive. A good design can help to prevent overstimulation, for example with acoustically damped cabins, adjustable light and calm colours. At the same time, the needs can differ within one working day. Therefore, offer employees the space to choose a workplace that suits them at any time of the day. By making smart use of different zones – from concentration areas to break-out zones or social hubs.

Acoustics

Pleasant acoustics ensure that employees, especially neurodivergent colleagues, can work more effectively and feel more vital. Good acoustic comfort starts with the layout and furnishing of a room. In any room, sound can be absorbed, shielded, attenuated or masked. For example, we apply acoustic barriers in an open space, such as sound-absorbing wall panels or furniture in different heights. We also limit cognitive fatigue with our space-in-space collections: freestanding workstations in the form of acoustic boxes, for extra focus and privacy within an open space.

Ergonomics and flexibility

Movement and flexibility is good for everyone – including neurodivergent employees. Many people sit too often and for too long. An important ergonomic advice is therefore: make sure that employees can alternate between sitting and standing during their working day. Think of adjustable desks, mobile walls or sit/stand options. Ergonomic office chairs support this. You stimulate movement throughout the day with various zones (see also point 1), which employees can use flexibly. Depending on what they want to do and achieve at that moment.

Nudging

With subtle additions to the work environment, you can unconsciously stimulate certain behavior. Think of signs at the elevator that encourage people to take the stairs, or walking lines to concentration zones. We call this 'nudges'. For neurodivergent employees, opt for explicit and concrete formulations, avoid auditory or visual overstimulation and ensure a clear structure and predictability in how you offer the nudges.

Biophilic design

Biophilic design stands for integrating natural elements into (work) environments, improving people's health and productivity. Green, daylight, and natural materials can help neurodivergent individuals avoid sensory overstimulation. Think, for example, of carpets with leaves on them, or soft earth tones on the wall and in the furniture. It has been scientifically proven that this calms the heart rate and blood circulation.