Everyone should know about neuro‑inclusive digital accessibility.

By Lē Silveus — In the ever‑evolving world of web development, crafting online experiences that are accessible and user‑centered is vital. However, the concept of accessibility extends beyond complying with WCAG guidelines. We’re going to dive into an important aspect that often gets overlooked: neurodiversity. As product creators, understanding and embracing neurodiversity can lead to more inclusive and effective digital products while catalyzing innovation.

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in the human brain and encompasses individuals with both majority and minority neurological profiles. It is the spectrum of the human mind. It includes people whose way of thinking and being in the world is currently accepted in our society and those who are not. People with labels such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others are referred to as neurodivergent or neurominority because, in recent history (at least the last 150 years), they have been severely marginalized in many nations of the world.

Just as biodiversity is crucial for a thriving ecosystem, neurodiversity is essential for a vibrant and inclusive society. To bring back this neurodiversity and repair the damage done by marginalization, we need to learn to include, love, and appreciate the often‑unique skills and perspectives of neurominority people. In tech, this means adding them to the accessibility and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion conversations and bringing them to the creative table.

You play a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape. By recognizing and accommodating neurodiversity, you ensure that your creations are accessible to a broader range of users. This isn’t just about altruism; it’s about making practical, user‑centered design choices that improve the overall quality of your products.

In the dynamic realm of web development, a commitment to accessibility goes beyond meeting basic guidelines. By embracing neurodiversity, digital creators can create products that cater to a broader spectrum of users.

From Horton, S., & Sloan, D. (2024). What Every Engineer Should Know About Digital Accessibility. CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida.