Apps have the potential to promote inclusion generally. However, research on mobile technology reveals that most app developers still need to consider the demands of those with varying abilities. Some of the most glaring differences may be attributed to neurodiversity exclusion. Individuals may find problems browsing program functions such as account registration, real-time text input, and interface flaws. Existing conditions exclude persons with intellectual impairments from applications that would otherwise enable them to communicate with their families.
It is essential to use inclusive design strategies to reduce the technical obstacles faced by people with impairments. Considering this group’s purchasing power and influence, inclusion is not just a moral obligation for developers but also a prudent commercial decision. Consequently, the following factors should be considered while developing an inclusive app:
Lead your app development team with neuro-diverse experts.
Launching a new app requires intensive market research. Thus, you can determine the demands of your audience. In light of this, your App Development Company must be led by neurodiverse specialists. Awareness is the foundation for fostering neurodiversity in the workplace. Ultimately, neurodiversity refers to distinct sets of behavioral characteristics and preferences. Having neurodiverse team leaders helps your app developers to comprehend the particular needs and skills of neurodiverse employees. For example, autistic personnel may suffer from overstimulation. Consequently, individuals may favor subdued hues to minimize difficulties in processing sensory data. Recognizing these preferences permits the development of an app that can accommodate the demands of neurodiverse employees.
Utilize delicate color palettes.
Continuing from the previous point, your choice of color palette may significantly influence your workers’ user experience. A unique concern for workers with autism is that they may concentrate better when contrast and color are balanced. The 2020 Journal of the Korean Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry article titled ‘Visual Perception in Autism Spectrum Disorder’ argues that even though visual processing techniques differ, persons with autism prefer calming color palettes. Meanwhile, research published on NCBI indicates that purple overlays may improve dyslexics’ reading comprehension and reduce instances of distractions. Knowing which color palette to apply will eventually enhance user experiences for neurodiverse staff.
Employ a typeface that is simple to read
When building an application for neurodiverse employees, fonts are a crucial element. As mentioned above, the NCBI also demonstrates that font selection and size may enhance reading comprehension and reduce stress in those with dyslexia. For instance, using serif typefaces may be seen as too ornate and as hiding the letter outlines. Choose sans serif fonts for body text, such as Open Sans or Arial. It is also essential to enhance the text size of your application to optimize usability not just for neurodiverse users but also for visually impaired employees. For optimal reading, headlines should be 20% bigger than the body text. Finally, refrain from animating your typefaces. This might result in anxiety for individuals on the autistic spectrum due to overstimulation.
Integrate and increase writing and reading capabilities
Integrate as many writing and proofreading tools as feasible into your app. This may include speech and audio elements as well as prediction choices. The second option, especially recommended replies, may assist neurodiverse personnel with literacy difficulties. In addition, it is possible to construct a text-to-speech capability. Hearing material on-screen read aloud may improve information processing. Finally, speech and audio solutions may facilitate work processes for neurodiverse individuals. For persons with dyslexia, speaking rather than typing may be an effective way to reduce mistakes.
