Inclusion matters in 2025
Tech leaders need to understand that the world is diverse and that everybody should have equal access to technology. This will not only be beneficial for them, but for the whole world. More people means more customers, points of view, and valuable insights.
Neurodiverse users, those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences are a significant portion of your audience for sure.
Yet, only a few tech leaders realize this and create products or services accordingly.
Building truly inclusive tech isn’t just about following a guide, it’s about creating holistic experiences that work for everyone. Plus, when you design for neurodiverse users, you improve accessibility for all users. Let’s dive into how you can make this happen.
Let’s begin at square one: What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the different ways people’s brains process information. It includes conditions like:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Autism may affect social interaction, sensory processing, and communication.
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): People who have ADHD can see their focus, impulse control, and organization affected.
- Dyslexia: A learning difference that affects reading and writing skills.
- Dyspraxia: This affects motor coordination and planning.
- Other cognitive differences might include sensory processing disorders and executive function challenges.
This is just an enumeration list of the many neuro diversities you should keep in mind to start thinking about how you will want to design your product.
Did you know that about 30 to 40 percent of the U.S. population is considered neurodivergent?
You will need to contact professionals or investigate a little more about each one of them to implement improvements to your products. Considering these differences ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Let’s begin at square one: What is neurodiversity?
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You need to know this when designing for neurodiverse users:
1. Keep it as simple as possible
Most of your users won’t have time for complicated interfaces. Neurodiverse users, in particular, love clarity and consistency. Here are some simple tips for you:
- Reduce messy interfaces: You should definitely avoid overwhelming visuals and excessive text.
- Use clear and concise language: Get to the point, be straightforward and kind.
- Easy navigation: Make it effortless to move through your product without surprises.
2. Customization should be a priority
One size never fits everyone, and that applies to almost every product. Neurodiverse users often need flexible settings to tailor their experience. Here are some examples of easy customizations you can use:
- Adjustable fonts and text sizes for those with dyslexia.
- Color contrast options to help with sensory sensitivities.
- Sound and notification controls to reduce distractions.
3. Don’t overstimulate
Things like flashy animations, autoplay videos, and sudden loud noises might be triggering for neurodivergents. To make your product more accessible:
- Allow users to turn off animations and sound effects.
- Avoid flashing or rapidly changing visuals.
- Consider providing a “focus mode” to minimize distractions.
4. Prioritize clear communication
If users don’t understand your product, they won’t use it. Keep instructions simple, direct, and easy to find:
- Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
- Use bullet points instead of long paragraphs.
- Provide tooltips and explanations for complex features.
5. Test with neurodiverse users
A good product manager knows that you can’t launch a product without testing it. The same applies to any accessibility features you’d want to include.
Bring neurodiverse users into the testing process to catch design flaws early. Also, do these:
- Gather feedback from real users with different cognitive styles.
- Run usability studies focusing on ease of navigation and comprehension.
- Iterate based on real-world testing, not just assumptions.
Tech tools can protect neurodiverse users
We should create safer experiences for everyone, and this includes neurodiverse users. You should integrate security features that are both effective and easy to understand. Data protection is a huge concern in 2025.
A VPN is one of the modern tools that could help encrypt data, ensuring online safety. If you need a VPN in Miami, you might be looking for a secure way to browse in a public space:
Tech tools can protect neurodiverse users
Building inclusive products isn’t a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing process that could take a long time. Most programmers know this: as tech evolves, so do the needs of your users. You can stay ahead too by:
- Continuously gather feedback from neurodiverse users.
- Update accessibility features as new research emerges.
- Advocate for inclusive design in your industry; you could inspire others.
If you commit to accessibility, you’re not just making life easier for your neurodiverse clients; you’re setting a new standard for tech leadership. That’s a legacy worth building.
Don’t get confused: Inclusive design makes life easier for everyone
Designing with neurodiverse users in mind isn’t just the right thing to do, it actually improves the experience for everyone.
When you simplify navigation, offer customization, and keep things consistent, you’re making your product more user-friendly across the board.
Who wouldn’t appreciate a cleaner interface, fewer frustrations, and a more intuitive experience?
Inclusion is innovation
Tech leaders, you should know that the future of inclusive design is in your hands before we were not aware as a society of neuroduvergence. Now we have a lot more information and it’s easier to improve our products.
When you prioritize neurodiverse users, you’re creating a product that works better for everyone. Simplicity, customization, and security should be at the core of your design philosophy.
So, what’s your next step? Start small. Implement one change today. Test your product with neurodiverse users. Build for everyone, and you can watch your product truly succeed.
