Neurodiversity is the concept that human brains do not conform to a single, universally-defined 'normal' standard. It encompasses differences in learning, attention, mood, and various other cognitive functions.

The emergence of the neurodiversity movement and workspaces for neurodiversity can be traced back to the 1990s, with the primary goal of fostering greater acceptance and inclusivity for all individuals, while also celebrating and embracing the diverse neurological traits people possess.

In recent times, there has been an increasing recognition of the significance of workspaces for neurodiversity and the distinct strengths and viewpoints that neurodivergent individuals can contribute to the workplace.
What do you mean by Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a concept that recognizes and celebrates the natural variation in human neurological characteristics and functioning. It emphasises that there is no one “normal” or typical way for the human brain to function and that differences in neurological development and functioning are part of the natural diversity of the human population.

Neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to autism, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia, and other neurological differences. Rather than viewing these conditions as disorders or deficits that need to be fixed or cured, the neurodiversity perspective suggests that these differences should be accepted, respected, and accommodated in society.

The neurodiversity movement emerged as a social and advocacy movement in the 1990s and has since gained momentum. It aims to promote greater awareness, acceptance, and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and social interactions. It also recognizes that neurodivergent individuals often possess unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that can be valuable to society.
Components of an Inclusive and Neurodiverse Workspace
Many organisations struggle to cater to individual needs, but by integrating a variety of preferences and creating diverse workspaces for neurodiversity, we can still achieve the desired result: ensuring that every person can work effectively. Most importantly, this approach reduces the visibility of differences and emphasises the importance of choice.

When designing workspaces for neurodiversity, it's essential to consider the following aspects:

Provide low-stimulation environments to support hyper-focus
Include social spaces for breaks that offer stimulation
Design quiet rooms to facilitate intense concentration
Allocate low-traffic areas to reduce social anxiety
Create collaborative hubs to accommodate extraversion
Incorporate active zones to encourage movement
Use materiality and lighting to cue specific behaviours
Arrange the layout and furniture to signify their intended purposes

Visually, workspaces for neurodiversity may resemble a typical office. However, breaking down the plan into four distinct personas helps us understand how these design elements come together to meet various needs.
What are Various Neurodiverse Groups and What Type of Workspace is Best for them?
Neurodivergent
Workspaces tailored for neurodivergent employees blend serene, distraction-free environments with vibrant communal areas. These spaces prioritise intimacy and are crafted for smaller groups and one-on-one discussions.

Unique Attributes:
Proficient in concentrated tasks
Displays creativity and unconventional thinking
Responsive to changes and sensory stimuli
Meticulous attention to detail and systems
Finds fulfilment in purposeful team breaks
Acquires knowledge through experimentation and exploration

Introverted
In a similar vein, individuals with introverted tendencies may require more focus and access to communal workspaces. Communication tends to occur within a social context where employees have the option to participate, as opposed to in extensive group meetings.

Unique Attributes:
Highly observant and thoughtful
Usually listens before speaking, engaging in reflective thinking
Favours well-defined and organised changes
Takes time for contemplation before making decisions
Enjoys socialising in smaller, more intimate gatherings
Learns effectively through careful observation

Neurotypical
Neurotypical individuals excel in versatile, open work environments. The workspace is designed to encourage collaboration, fostering teamwork opportunities, with less emphasis on privacy and physical barriers.

Unique Traits:
Proficiency in social skills
Friendly and well-connected
Readily adaptable to change
Minimal or no specific sensory needs
Enjoys spontaneous interaction
Learns effectively through interpersonal experiences

Extroverted
Individuals with extroverted personalities thrive in lively, welcoming environments that facilitate networking and the exchange of ideas. These settings support a range of communication methods, including one-on-one conversations and group discussions.

Unique Traits:
Excellent at building connections and communicating effectively
Demonstrates openness and expressiveness
Enjoys spontaneity and is adaptable to change
Quick decision-maker
Finds energy through group interactions
Learns best through hands-on experience and verbal discussion
How to Make Your Office Neurodiverse?
Imagine a scenario where you find it challenging to decipher signage, where the noise level becomes overwhelming, or where the lighting appears adequate for everyone but yourself. Now, contemplate the fact that this is the daily experience of numerous neurodiverse employees working in an office.

Fortunately, there is a positive shift happening. Hybrid workplaces are evolving to become more accommodating and welcoming for neurodiverse workers. You can also plan to have your neurodiverse workspace in Delhi at our office space for rent in Delhi.

To create workspaces for neurodiversity, follow the given steps:
Provide a range of workplace options
In a traditional corporate office, sensory stimuli like noise, bright lighting, and strong odours can overwhelm employees with cognitive differences. Therefore, it's essential to offer these individuals various workspace choices tailored to their sensory preferences and tasks at hand.

To achieve this, as suggested by Claire Shepherd, COO of Unispace, create a "menu of intentional choices." This menu should include quiet areas for focused work, spaces designed for group collaboration and social interaction with higher stimulation, as well as designated spots for relaxation and rejuvenation. A relaxation space might feature subdued lighting, privacy, comfortable seating, calming music, and even provisions for meditation or restorative exercises.

To enhance the effectiveness of these spaces, ensure that they provide "clear design clues about the space's intent" regarding acoustics, privacy, lighting, and other sensory factors. Additionally, consider including remote work options for neurodiverse employees who may thrive better in such environments.
Enhance technology accessibility
Neurodivergent individuals often find video meetings challenging, as they can be difficult to follow and overwhelming, especially in large group settings.

To make meetings more manageable, consider offering materials to review in advance, recording sessions for later reference, and permitting employees to turn off their cameras. Individuals with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may benefit from closed captioning or access to meeting transcripts, while those with dyslexia may find recorded meetings helpful.

Moreover, providing technology breaks can be beneficial. For instance, Webex has partnered with Thrive Global to introduce short guided breathing exercises within meetings, promoting brief moments of relaxation. In Microsoft's Viva platform, designed for hybrid work, meditation and mindfulness exercises are incorporated.
Prioritise clean, fresh air
Neurodivergent individuals often exhibit heightened sensitivity to odours, so fostering inclusivity involves limiting strong scents and ensuring a workplace with excellent air quality.

Consider investing in advanced HVAC systems and collaborating with maintenance staff to ensure optimal air circulation. Certain plants, like palm plants, rubber plants, and English ivy, naturally purify the air and provide a visually soothing atmosphere.

In areas prone to unpleasant odours, such as kitchens or near the office microwave, placing a bowl of vinegar overnight can help absorb unwanted smells.
Consider neurodiversity in your office layout
Navigating through cubicles and repetitive office layouts can be challenging for anyone, but it can be particularly overwhelming for employees with cognitive differences who rely on environmental cues.

Creating unique, visually distinct spaces on each floor with clear lines of sight and prominent visual landmarks such as plants, artwork, or varying furniture arrangements can significantly ease navigation.
Keep employees with physical disabilities in mind
The shift toward remote work has been advantageous for individuals with physical disabilities, enabling them to find meaningful roles in environments that better accommodate their needs compared to traditional offices.

To retain these employees, companies can continue offering remote work as a reasonable accommodation. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential "proximity bias" where managers may unintentionally favour in-office employees, and take steps to mitigate this bias.
Conclusion
The journey towards creating inclusive workspaces for neurodiversity is a vital step in fostering a truly diverse and equitable modern office environment.

As we continue to learn and adapt, embracing the unique strengths and perspectives of neurodiverse individuals, we not only enhance workplace productivity but also promote a culture of empathy and understanding.

By prioritizing thoughtful design and accommodating the diverse needs of all employees, we can unlock the full potential of every individual, fostering innovation and progress in the contemporary workplace.

Inclusivity is not just a goal; it's a commitment to building a brighter, more harmonious future for all.