AI Enhances Productivity for Individuals with ADHD and Autism

AI enhances productivity for individuals with ADHD and autism.

Integrating AI with a focus on ethical safeguards that assist neurodiverse employees is both a prudent and economically sound decision, according to Kristi Boyd, a data ethics expert at SAS, as reported by CNBC.

A study by the UK Department for Business and Trade revealed that generative artificial intelligence aids professionals with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other perceptual and communication differences in working on a more level playing field.

These individuals report 25% higher satisfaction with AI assistants compared to neurotypical respondents and are more likely to recommend such tools to others.

“When I stand up and walk around the room during a meeting, I don’t take notes. Now, artificial intelligence can convert the entire meeting into a transcript and highlight key themes,” noted Tara DeZao, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Pega.

She was diagnosed in adulthood with a combined type of ADHD, featuring both inattentiveness and hyperactivity.

DeZao emphasized that breaking into business was challenging, and AI solutions have been immensely helpful.

AI-based tools are applied in various fields, but are most commonly used for note-taking, planning, and internal communication.

Return on Investment

AI is particularly effective in tasks related to communication, time management, and work organization. It helps neurodiverse workers adapt to the work environment. In return, they bring unique qualities such as hyperfocus, creativity, empathy, and niche expertise.

Research indicates that companies emphasizing inclusivity generate nearly 20% more revenue.

Boyd, citing SAS analysis, stated that firms investing more in AI management and security are 1.6 times more likely to see double returns on investment.

She identified three key risks to consider when developing technologies for neurodiverse individuals: conflicting needs, unconscious bias, and inappropriate information disclosure.

“People with dyslexia can benefit from document reading programs, while employees with bipolar disorder or other neurodiverse mental conditions can benefit from AI-assisted planning,” she noted.

Organizations should anticipate such contradictions and create multi-level conditions or flexible frameworks based on choice. This will help balance competing interests and strengthen principles of equality and inclusivity, Boyd emphasized.

A study by Duke University showed that algorithms can inadvertently associate neurodiversity with danger, illness, or negativity. Employees are also at risk of workplace discrimination, so companies must provide safe ways to use AI tools without publicly disclosing diagnoses.

Boyd stressed the importance of considering diverse opinions at all stages, conducting regular audits, and ensuring safe channels for anonymous reporting of issues.

AI Illuminates the Path

The work to ensure more equitable AI implementation is just beginning.

In early October, the nonprofit organization Humane Intelligence launched the Bias Bounty Challenge, allowing participants to identify biases with the aim of creating “more inclusive communication platforms, especially for users with cognitive differences, sensory sensitivities, or alternative communication styles.”

For instance, emotion recognition AI can assist those who struggle in this area, enabling them to better understand interlocutors during video calls. However, the technology requires careful attention to bias to ensure it accurately and impartially interprets different communication patterns.

DeZao said that her ADHD diagnosis felt like “someone turned on the light in a very, very dark room.”

“One of the most challenging aspects of our hyper-connected, fast-paced world is the expectation of multitasking. With my form of ADHD, it’s nearly impossible,” she noted.

According to DeZao, one of the most beneficial features of artificial intelligence is its ability to receive instructions and perform tasks, allowing the human employee to focus on the task at hand.

“If I’m working on something and then a new request comes in via Slack or Teams, it completely throws me off track. The ability to accept this request, quickly outsource it, and work on it while I continue to finish the initial task has been a real lifesaver,” she said.

Back in October, Zoom CEO Eric Yuan stated that artificial intelligence could reduce the workweek to 3-4 days.