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Office Revolution Named One of Crain’s Chicago Business’ 2024 Best Places to Work

Office Revolution is thrilled to announce that we have once again been named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ 2024 Best Places to Work in Chicago. This marks the second time our company has earned this prestigious award, a reflection of our commitment to creating a thriving and supportive work environment for our employees. In recent years, the working world has experienced seismic changes, and companies recognize now more than ever that a focus on employee experience is imperative to employee well-being. Office Revolution is proud to be part of this shift, offering a workplace culture that fosters growth, flexibility, and overall well-being.

Fostering Growth and Development
Office Revolution is dedicated to our employees by focusing on creating a culture of growth that supports both the individual and the business. Our mentoring program is a key part of this approach, helping employees to achieve their personal and professional goals. By promoting ongoing development and learning, we create an environment that encourages growth and innovation.

Wellness at Work: A Summer of Health & Wellness
At Office Revolution, we believe in the importance of taking care of our employees, both physically and mentally. Our 2024 Summer of Health & Wellness program couldn’t have come at a better time. We offered mindful meditation, HIIT classes, Pilates, and yoga—some of which were even taught by our talented employees. To encourage activity and health, we also hosted fun initiatives like Bingo activities that promoted movement and healthy habits, along with a Healthy Lunch Day where employees brought nutritious dishes to share with one another.

Flexibility at the Core
One of the key themes you’ll notice in organizations recognized by Crain’s is flexibility—and Office Revolution fully embraces this. We encourage hybrid working options and give our staff the freedom to work asynchronously or take time off to care for their families. This focus on flexibility is helping our employees achieve a better work-life balance, a quality that makes Office Revolution stand out in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Partnerships with Purpose: Connecting through Sports and Charitable Giving
In addition to creating a great place to work, Office Revolution is proud to partner with several prominent sports teams, including the Cleveland Browns, Chicago Fire FC, and Columbus Crew. These partnerships go beyond sponsorships, extending to charitable activities that engage our employees. Our team has participated in various events, including youth soccer and football camps in collaboration with these organizations. Additionally, Office Revolution believes in giving back to the community. We are long-time supporters of organizations such as Ronald McDonald House Charities, Habitat for Humanity, and Polished Pebbles. Our employees take pride in participating in these initiatives, making meaningful contributions to the communities we serve.

The Crain’s Process: Measured by What Matters Most
Crain’s Chicago Business evaluates companies through comprehensive surveys that measure benefits, employee experience, and more. Most importantly, the majority of this recognition comes directly from the feedback of our employees. Their input shapes the company’s ranking based on factors like job satisfaction, communication, relationships with managers, professional development, and work-life balance.
Among the highest-scoring aspects for Office Revolution were:

Company culture
Core employee experience
Relationship with managers
Overall job satisfaction

Employees consistently praised our culture, flexibility, professional growth opportunities, creativity, and the open-door policy of our management team. They value the work-life balance we promote and the opportunities for career advancement.

At Office Revolution, fostering a workspace rooted in shared values is not only central to our mission, but enriches the work environment for our dedicated team members. We are honored that the culture we work hard to cultivate has been recognized by being named one of Crain’s Chicago Business’ 2024 Best Places to Work.

Matt Ruder Joins Office Revolution as Owner and Principal

Office Revolution proudly announces the addition of Matt Ruder to its ownership team, a strategic move that reinforces the company’s commitment to growth, customer value, and industry leadership.

Matt’s career is defined by his successful founding and leadership of The Ruder Group, a premier commercial interiors rep firm recognized for its ability to connect architecture and design firms, as well as contract furniture dealers, with top-tier furniture and architectural products. Over more than two decades, Matt led The Ruder Group with a deep understanding of market dynamics and a steadfast focus on customer-centric service, earning the firm a reputation for excellence and setting benchmarks for quality and client experience.

After his time at The Ruder Group, Matt transitioned to the manufacturing side of the industry, serving as Vice President of Business Development at Halcon, a leading modern furniture manufacturer known for its superior craftsmanship and design. In this role, Matt played a key part in advancing the brand’s product development and growth initiatives, further cementing his reputation as a visionary leader in the field.

“I began working with Office Revolution when Bernie Donaldson founded the company in 2001. What has always impressed me is their integrity, transparency, and proactive approach to overcoming the inevitable challenges in commercial interiors projects,” said Matt. “They are true partners to their clients, focused on building long-term relationships rather than simply conducting transactions. Their agility and commitment to success in any situation have always stood out to me.”

Matt’s decision to join Office Revolution as an owner/principal and active leader comes at an exciting time in the company’s expansion efforts, including the recent opening of a new location in Kansas City. His enthusiasm for growing Office Revolution on both local and national levels is evident, and he is eager to leverage his extensive experience, insights, and network to help propel the company forward.

Bernie Donaldson, Founding Principal of Office Revolution, expressed his excitement about Matt’s appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Matt Ruder to Office Revolution. I have tremendous respect for him as a business leader, industry expert, and individual. His vast experience and results-driven approach align perfectly with our mission to deliver unparalleled value to our clients. As we continue to expand, Matt’s leadership will be essential in guiding us to new heights and achieving our strategic goals.

Office Revolution Joins Forces with Chicago Fire FC as Official Partner for New Performance Center

Office Revolution is proud to announce its partnership with Chicago Fire FC as the Club’s Office Furniture and Architectural Products Supplier for the highly anticipated Performance Center, currently under construction in the Roosevelt Square neighborhood on the Near West Side.

As a key partner in this exciting development, Office Revolution aims to create a world-class facility designed to attract and train top talent in Major League Soccer. The state-of-the-art facility will be furnished and outfitted with architectural products provided by Office Revolution, ensuring a seamless blend of function, form, and modern design.

“We are thrilled to partner with Chicago Fire FC in developing this groundbreaking facility,” said Bernie Donaldson, CEO of Office Revolution. “Our team is committed to creating spaces that not only support peak performance but also foster community engagement and inclusivity. The Club’s Performance Center will be a beacon for both professional athletes and the local youth, and we are honored to contribute to its success.”

In addition to furnishing the Performance Center, Office Revolution will collaborate with the Fire to convert a basketball court at the facility during the 2025 season, creating soccer spaces for youth in the Near West Side neighborhood. This initiative aligns with Office Revolution’s longstanding commitment to community involvement and support for youth development.

As part of the partnership, Office Revolution is proud to be a part of the Chicago Fire Breakthrough Clinic, further solidifying its dedication to fostering positive change in the community through sports.

“Office Revolution has a deep passion for supporting professional sports and volunteering with youth,” Donaldson continued. “We are excited to continue this tradition by sponsoring initiatives that unite communities, such as the Chicago Fire Breakthrough Clinic. This community outreach program provides camps that engage kids in soccer and other sports, promoting health, teamwork, and a love for the game.”

For more information on the partnership and the upcoming Performance Center, please visit https://www.chicagofirefc.com/news/chicago-fire-fc-unveils-partners-for-new-performance-center

Caleb Slaughter Joins Office Revolution as Business Development Leader for Kansas City

Office Revolution is pleased to announce Caleb Slaughter has joined the team as Business Development Leader for the newly opened Kansas City location. As a Kansas City native, advocate for commercial real estate growth, and active participant in community service, Caleb embodies the spirit and mission of Office Revolution Kansas City.

A Kansas City native, Caleb Slaughter’s deep ties to the community are reflected in his active involvement in numerous local organizations. He serves as the chapter president of CoreNet Global, KC region’s Corporate Real Estate Professional organization, and holds a board position with the Blue Valley Industrial Association. His commitment to professional development is further exemplified by his co-founding of KC Futures, a prominent networking platform dedicated to the advancement and growth of professionals within the region. Caleb’s dedication to community service is evident through his contributions to his local church, the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America organization, and the American Red Cross.

Caleb’s prior tenure as a Sales Executive at Vari Furniture enriched him with a deep understanding of the furniture industry and a refined, consultative sales approach. Caleb mastered a client-centric philosophy, characterized by his unwavering commitment to project ownership, risk mitigation, and the timely delivery of solutions. His dedication to ensuring that clients’ needs are paramount has made him a trusted partner in achieving their envisioned outcomes.

Caleb’s passion for art and design seamlessly translates into his professional life, where he is driven to create distinctive and aesthetically compelling workspaces that align with each client’s unique vision. In his new role, Caleb is well-positioned to offer an extensive range of products and solutions, consistently emphasizing a client-first approach that ensures exceptional results. He is particularly enthusiastic about collaborating with Teknion, a premier partner known for its innovative designs and adaptability, which perfectly complements his commitment to delivering outstanding workspace solutions.

Caleb is enthusiastic about joining Office Revolution, praising the company’s strategic and research-backed decision to enter the Kansas City market. He admires the close-knit, collaborative environment at Office Revolution and appreciates the strong support system provided by the company’s multiple locations.

As a lifelong resident of Kansas City, Caleb passionately speaks about the city’s vibrancy, cultural richness, and the welcoming spirit of its people. Outside of his professional endeavors, Caleb is a devoted husband and father, deeply engaged in his community, and an advocate for the artistic integration within workspaces.

Expressing her enthusiasm about Caleb’s appointment, Jill Stewart, President of Office Revolution, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Caleb to the Office Revolution team. Caleb’s commitment to client-focused solutions and his ability to integrate artistry into functional design align perfectly with our company’s values. His passion for seeing Kansas City flourish aligns with our own. He’s the perfect match for Office Revolution.”

Kansas City Executive Joins Office Revolution as Market Principal of New Kansas City Location

Office Revolution is honored to welcome Beth Collins to the role of Market Principal for its new Kansas City office. As a U.S. Veteran, seasoned executive, active participant in the Kansas City business and commercial real estate community, and long-time Kansas City resident, Beth brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and commitment to the employees, partners, and clients of Office Revolution, Kansas City.

Most recently, Beth spent five years at the Kansas City Business Journal, where she honed her expertise in management and strategic business development as the publication’s Vice President of Sales. A proud graduate of the Kansas City Chamber’s prestigious Centurions leadership program, Beth is deeply committed to community engagement and professional growth. Additionally, she has served as a Staff Sergeant in the Illinois Air National Guard, exemplifying her dedication to service and leadership in our country.

Beyond her professional achievements, Beth is dedicated to community enrichment, volunteering her time and skills at local organizations including Uplift Organization, a mobile street outreach program for the homeless of Kansas City; Newhouse Domestic Violence Shelter; and reStart, an organization supporting all homeless populations in Kansas City. In her free time, she is an avid hiker who enjoys exploring the great outdoors. She enjoys leading fellow industry executives on hiking trips to the Grand Canyon, combining her love for nature with her passion for leadership.

Beth’s excitement to join Office Revolution stems from her personal experience with the impact workspaces have and her admiration for Office Revolution’s team, resources, passion for Kansas City, and commitment to guiding its clients to a successful outcome no matter what. “I am thrilled to be part of an industry that has such a huge impact on people’s lives,” said Beth. “I’ve seen firsthand how a good workspace can completely change a person’s energy and mindset both in and out of the work environment and that’s what I’d like to continue to cultivate at Office Revolution.”

“What drew me to Office Revolution specifically was the passion they had for Kansas City and the ‘all-in’ teamwork mindset of the company,” continued Beth. “Whatever client challenge arises, the team attacks it with an all-hands-on-deck mentality to ensure the client succeeds and that’s an attitude that is increasingly rare in today’s world.”

As Office Revolution continues to grow and expand its footprint, Beth’s leadership will be instrumental in driving the company’s mission to part of Kansas City’s expansion and create inspiring and functional workspaces that foster creativity, collaboration, and well-being.

Office Revolution Opens New Office in Kansas City, Expanding Its Footprint to a Thriving Market

Office Revolution, a premier leader in contract furniture and innovative workspace solutions, is pleased to announce the opening of its new location in Kansas City, MO. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to growth, its dedication to serving dynamic, expanding business communities, and its passion for the people and culture of Kansas City.

The decision to expand to Kansas City reflects Office Revolution’s vision of extending its reach and influence within a market known for its vibrant culture, strong community, and thriving business environment. This new location will allow Office Revolution to serve clients with the depth and breadth of services and product solutions that come from being a large, multi-location dealership, while delivering a local, personal experience.

“Kansas City’s thriving business landscape and vibrant culture is the perfect fit for our team and our approach to innovative workspace design.” said Jill Stewart, President of Office Revolution. “We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of this community and are thrilled to add it to the list of places we call home.”

The Kansas City office will serve as the cornerstone of Office Revolution’s operations in the region, offering a full suite of services including strategic workspace planning, comprehensive project management, and specification and installation of contract furniture and architectural products for commercial environments.

Office Revolution’s expansion into Kansas City aligns with its long-term strategic goal of being an integral part of dynamic, growing markets. As the new office launches, Office Revolution looks forward to forging strong partnerships with local businesses and contributing to the continued growth and innovation within the Kansas City market.

Meet the newest team members of our Kansas City location, Beth Collins and Caleb Slaughter!

Architectural products at Hirose Electric

Creating a Neuroinclusive Workplace with Architectural Products

It’s no secret that remote work has become very popular over the last several years, but there is an often-overlooked reason as to why that is. For many people, it was a game-changer to have the level of control over their surroundings that working from home offers them. However, being fully remote does not offer the same valuable collaborative opportunities that in-person environments facilitate. The current challenge many employers are now facing is the demand for workplaces that give employees access to in-person resources while making them feel as empowered as they did at home.

Workplaces in the past were often designed to be one-size-fits-all, but as we now know, this does not accommodate the needs of a large portion of the workforce, particularly neurodivergent people. When workplaces are reconceptualized to be welcoming and accessible for neurodivergent people, they become a more positive and productive environment for everyone.

Neurodiversity and neuroinclusivity are related concepts that focus on recognizing and supporting the variety of ways in which human brains function. The concept of neurodiversity acknowledges that brain differences are just that: differences, not deficits. This approach encourages the recognition and support of a wide range of neurological conditions, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, as natural variations of the human brain.

Neuroinclusivity builds on the concept of neurodiversity by creating environments and practices that support neurodiverse individuals. Its goal is to remove barriers and promote understanding, acceptance, and equal opportunities for all.

Creating neuroinclusive spaces involves implementing inclusive strategies in workplaces, schools, and other settings to ensure full participation and success for people with different neurological conditions. Thoughtful space design plays a key role in these strategies, and architectural products are an especially impactful design tool for such spaces.

Demountable walls enclose this collaborative space where employees at John Deere Headquarters in Chicago can choose from a variety of playful seating arrangements.

Understanding Neuroinclusivity in the Workplace

In a workplace setting, neuroinclusive design means creating a space with the understanding that different employees have varying needs when it comes to their work environment. Some individuals perform better when around other people and need more stimuli to stay engaged within the workplace, while others require privacy and minimal sensory input to focus. To accommodate the needs of all employees within a singular work environment, separation between dedicated zones supporting various work styles is a necessary addition.

Many experts support the concept of offering a mix of spaces for employees ranging from privacy and focused heads-down work, to collaboration and socialization.

When designing a workplace to be inclusive for all, it’s important to provide a variety of options to enable users to find a space that fits their specific needs for the task at hand.

Kelly Colon

Eledex Consulting

Gensler’s Global Workplace Comparison 2023 report agrees with this sentiment. Their research found that successful workplace performance is rooted in office space effectiveness and workplace experience — the presence of both results in workplaces that drive better outcomes for individuals, teams, and businesses. This is why it’s essential to create diverse, dedicated zones throughout the workplace that cater to various working conditions, enabling everyone to perform at their best.

Architectural Products as a Solution

A simple way to achieve separation between zones throughout the office is with architectural products. Architectural products are prefabricated systems that can be quickly installed and easily reconfigured, and provide separation solutions to spaces. Architectural products can be used to close off a space entirely, like for a conference room, or they can be used in a less formal sense to provide smaller spaces that offer a respite from busier areas.

Demountable walls at Clark Nexsen separate open workstations from a smaller conference room for hands-on tasks. that require more room to spread out.

The flexibility of architectural products is crucial for adapting to the changing needs of a workforce as organizations grow and adopt new practices and technologies over time. To keep up with the evolving needs of the times, modifications to a space must be made periodically.

Architectural products are a great investment in the longevity of the workspace because they can be reconfigured, allowing changes to be made as needed without requiring a construction project. Unlike traditional construction methods, these systems do not require significant downtime for installation, meaning that businesses can continue to operate with minimal disruption.

For numerous organizations, the initial perception might be that creating a neuroinclusive space is challenging due to limited budgets or the limitations of the existing physical environment. However, architectural products, such as demountable walls and microarchitecture, present an accessible solution that can fit into any floor plan and can be customized to suit a broad range of styles and budgets.

Financial and time investments are also significantly lower for architectural products compared to stick-built solutions, as supported by CBRE’s Chicago Office Construction Trends analysis.

Demountable walls at Hirose Electric keep the office open and welcoming while ensuring that important discussions can occur without distraction in the conference rooms.

Benefits of Architectural Products for Neuroinclusive Design

When used in an intentional way, architectural products offer numerous advantages that enhance the emotional, cognitive, and psychological well-being of building occupants, forming the fundamental principles of neuroinclusive design.

Improved Acoustics – One of the key challenges in an open office environment is managing noise levels. Excessive noise can be distracting and stressful, particularly for individuals who are sensitive to sensory input. Architectural products can incorporate sound-absorbing materials and design elements that help to mitigate noise, creating a more serene and focused work environment.

Demountable walls in our Raleigh Office designate single-person rooms for people who function better in less stimulating places.

Increased Privacy – When creating your space, it is recommended to include private pods or quiet zones where employees can retreat to focus on their work. These spaces can be equipped with ergonomic furniture and technology to support various work activities, from solo tasks to confidential meetings.

A great way to give occupants a choice in the privacy level of their space is with adaptable capabilities such as the dynamic louvers in Teknion’s WithIn system, which can be easily opened or closed to suit individuals’ privacy needs.

Biophilic Design – Biophilic elements incorporating natural light, plants, and natural materials have been shown to reduce stress, enhance creativity, and improve overall well-being. Architectural products can be used strategically to bring all of these elements into a space, and various products can be used in combination with each other for maximum impact.

Glass demountable walls are a great way to maximize natural light, and microarchitecture systems can be designed to bring in natural textures such as wood and even living walls. Planters can even be suspended from ceiling baffles to incorporate additional greenery. This nature-guided approach not only makes the office more aesthetically pleasing, but also supports the mental and physical health of employees.

The Teknion Within microarchitecture system offers many great ways to incorporate natural elements such as green walls into a space.

Enhancing Employee Satisfaction and Productivity

When employees have the ability to choose where and how they work, they are more likely to feel valued and supported by their employer. This sense of autonomy can lead to higher levels of job satisfaction and engagement. In turn, engaged employees are more productive and less likely to experience burnout.

Levenfeld Pearlstein utilized architectural products that contributed significantly toward employee satisfaction with their space.

According to MITSloan, when organizations and teams include neurodivergent individuals, productivity is estimated to be 30% higher. With that in mind, architectural products are a great tool to keep in mind when designing interior environments for high performance and individual empowerment.The investment in such environments pays off in the form of higher employee satisfaction, increased productivity, and a more innovative and resilient organization.

As the workforce continues to evolve, the importance of flexible, inclusive design will only grow. Architectural products provide a practical and effective solution for meeting these needs, making them a valuable consideration for any forward-thinking organization.

If you’re interested in adding architectural products to your space, let’s chat!

Alex Lang joined the Office Revolution team in 2021 after graduating with honors from Bowling Green State University. She holds a major in Interior Design and a minor in Marketing, and has over 4 years of combined experience in the design industry. Alex is an avid writer and prides herself on her enthusiasm for learning, and is especially interested in the latest research on the future of commercial interiors. In her role as a Content Strategist, she applies this knowledge toward the creation of client deliverables and internal resources, as well as her contributions as a guest author.

Office Revolution Partners with LG Chem on New Headquarters Near Cleveland, Ohio

LG Chem has recently established a significant presence on a 24-acre site at 310 Rayann Parkway near Cleveland, Ohio The development includes a 100,000-square-foot, three-story Customer Solutions Center and a 148,000-square-foot ABS Compounding Plant. This one-story, pre-engineered steel facility features a mezzanine and external six-story storage silos and tanks.

Office Revolution collaborated with GDOT Design and LG Chem to furnish this state-of-the-art facility, helping them connect science to life for a better future.

Discover the full story in the latest edition of Properties Magazine!

Photos are property of LG Chem, publications, and respective owners/outlets, and not of Office Revolution.

Office Revolution Teams Up with the Cleveland Browns as Proud Partner for 2024 Football Season

Office Revolution is thrilled to announce its dynamic partnership with the Cleveland Browns as an official sponsor. As part of this partnership, Office Revolution proudly assumes the role of presenting sponsor for the organization’s esteemed LEGENDS Clinics. These clinics, which unite Browns Alumni and local high school football coaches, offer hands-on instruction in a positive and engaging environment for underserved youth in Northeast Ohio.

This partnership marks an exciting collaboration between two esteemed entities in Cleveland. Office Revolution, known for its passionate support of professional sports and dedication to uplifting underserved youth, is excited to continue its tradition of sponsoring initiatives that unite communities.

CEO of Office Revolution, Bernie Donaldson, shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with the Cleveland Browns. This partnership encapsulates our commitment to Cleveland, our passion for assisting youth, and our love for sports. It symbolizes our shared values of teamwork, innovation, and community engagement.”

“Teaming up with Office Revolution, who is looking to make a difference in our communities, will be extremely impactful for us at the Cleveland Browns,” said Erica Muhleman Cleveland Browns Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships. “We’re looking forward to kicking off this partnership and working with Office Revolution in a variety of ways this season.”

Moreover, this partnership underscores Office Revolution’s ongoing investment in Cleveland, exemplified by the company’s recent establishment of a new location in the city’s vibrant Warehouse District. Renovating a Certified Historic Building, originally constructed over 100 years ago by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, Office Revolution has deepened its roots in the city. Donaldson added, “Our expansion in Cleveland, including our involvement in current projects that will have an incredible impact on the city, reflects our dedication to this dynamic community. We eagerly anticipate leveraging this partnership to make a positive impact and contribute to Cleveland’s continued growth and success.”

Sean Regan, Director of New Business Development for Office Revolution, echoed the sentiment, expressing his delight in teaming up with the Cleveland Browns. “Cleveland holds a special place in my heart—it’s my hometown, where I grew up and raised my family,” said Regan. “This partnership presents a remarkable opportunity to actively support our community and the children who call Cleveland home.”

The Cleveland Browns and Office Revolution are excited to embark on this journey together, leveraging their respective strengths to create memorable experiences for fans of all ages.

Embracing Neurodiversity: Paving the Way for Inclusive Workplaces

In an era where diversity and inclusion are pivotal to organizational success, embracing neurodiversity has emerged as a key aspect of creating truly inclusive workplaces. Neurodiversity refers to the natural diversity of human brains and brain functions, encompassing a range of variations related to learning, thinking differences, neurodevelopmental conditions, mental health, and unique brain functions and behavioral patterns.

Understanding, accommodating, and leveraging these differences are not only ethical imperatives but also strategic advantages for organizations, as diverse teams are known to be more creative, innovative and productive.

This blog post aims to shed light on what neurodiversity means, its importance in the workplace, and how employers can create physical environments that support neurodivergent employees.

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity encompasses a range of neurological variations, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, and other neurodevelopmental conditions. Instead of framing these variations as shortcomings, the neurodiversity perspective regards them as distinct differences that enrich the workplace. It highlights that every person’s neurological configuration, or neurotype, introduces unique advantages and challenges, fostering a workplace environment ripe with diverse viewpoints that can spearhead innovation and enhance problem-solving processes.

Why Neurodiversity Matters in the Workplace

The importance of recognizing and integrating neurodiversity into workplace cultures is critically important. Neurodivergent individuals, who make up 15%-20% of the global population, bring a wealth of diverse skills and perspectives to the workforce. Yet, they encounter significant employment challenges, highlighted by the fact that approximately 85% of college-educated autistic individuals are unable to secure employment. This gap not only deprives these individuals of opportunities to contribute and thrive but also results in a substantial loss for organizations that overlook the value of neurodiverse talents.

Barriers such as misconceptions, biases, and insufficient accommodations in the workplace further exacerbate this issue. These obstacles not only impact the lives of neurodivergent individuals but also prevent businesses from realizing the full advantages of neurodiverse teams. Such teams are often marked by enhanced engagement, increased productivity, and reduced staff turnover. Addressing these barriers and fostering an inclusive work environment is essential for tapping into the potential that neurodiversity offers to the modern workplace.

Creating Physical Workplaces That Support Neurodivergent Employees

The physical and sensory environment of the workplace plays a critical role in supporting or hindering neurodivergent employees. Creating neuroinclusive environments involves more than just physical adjustments; it encompasses a holistic approach that includes psychological, emotional and cognitive considerations.

By designing spaces that cater to a variety of sensory needs and work styles, organizations can enhance focus, comfort, and productivity for all employees. This includes offering quiet zones for deep concentration, collaborative spaces for team interactions, adjustable lighting, and ergonomic furniture that accommodates different physical needs.

Here are some strategies, accommodations and practical steps employers can implement to create supportive neuroinclusive environments:

Inclusive Recruitment and Onboarding:

Adapting hiring practices to be more inclusive, such as offering alternative interview formats or clearly stating the support available for neurodivergent applicants. Onboarding processes should also be designed to accommodate diverse learning styles and provide clear, accessible information.

To right: Elevate Longfellow

Awareness and Training:

Educating staff and management about neurodiversity to foster understanding and empathy. This includes training on the strengths and challenges associated with different neurotypes and how to support colleagues effectively.

To left: McDonalds HQ

Support and Resources:

Providing access to mentorship, support groups, or resources specifically for neurodivergent employees can aid in their professional development and sense of belonging.

To right: Clark Nexsen

Flexible and Varied Workspaces:

Provide a variety of workspaces that cater to different needs and preferences. This includes quiet areas for those who need a low-stimulus environment, collaborative spaces for teamwork, private booths for phone calls or focused work, and comfortable lounging areas for breaks.

To left: McDonalds HQ

Ergonomic Furniture and Accessibility:

Invest in ergonomic furniture that supports various body types and work styles. Adjustable desks, supportive chairs, and accessible design elements ensure that the workplace accommodates physical needs and promotes comfort and well-being for everyone.

To right: Narrative Science

Customizable Workspaces:

Allowing employees to personalize their workspaces with equipment that supports their needs, such as noise-canceling headphones, standing desks, or visual aids, can make a significant difference in their productivity and comfort.

To left: John Deere HQ

Sensory-Friendly Design:

Adjust lighting, acoustics, and color schemes to create a sensory-friendly environment. Options such as natural lighting, soundproofing materials, and the use of calming colors can make a significant difference. Offering personal control over lighting and noise levels, where possible, allows employees to tailor their immediate environment to their needs.

To right: Jet Support Services

Technology and Tools:

Providing access to technology and tools that support diverse work styles is crucial. This includes speech-to-text software for those with dyslexia, time management apps for individuals with ADHD, and noise-cancelling headphones for those sensitive to auditory distractions.

To left: Narrative Science

Biophilic Elements:

Incorporate natural elements into the workplace design. Plants, water features, and views of nature not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also have been shown to reduce stress and improve mood and cognitive function, benefiting all employees but particularly those who are neurodivergent.

To right: McDonalds HQ

Visual Aids and Signage: Use clear, concise signage and visual aids throughout the office to make navigation and understanding workplace protocols easier for everyone, especially for those with cognitive differences.

To left: Confidential Technology Client

Creating a neuroinclusive workplace is not just about making accommodations but about recognizing and valuing the diverse perspectives neurodivergent individuals bring. It requires a shift in mindset from seeing neurodivergent traits as challenges to be managed, to viewing them as unique strengths that can contribute to the organization’s success. Employers who embrace this shift stand to benefit from a more innovative, resilient, and inclusive workforce.

The journey towards embracing neurodiversity and creating neuroinclusive workplaces is ongoing and requires commitment, creativity, and a willingness to adapt. By understanding what neurodiversity is and its significance, employers can take meaningful steps to accommodate the diverse needs of their workforce. Implementing thoughtful design and providing supportive accommodations are key to unlocking the potential of neurodivergent employees.

As businesses continue to embrace these practices, they not only enhance the work experience for neurodivergent individuals but also enrich their teams with a broader range of perspectives, driving innovation and inclusivity forward. In doing so, they set a new standard for what it means to be a truly inclusive and diverse workplace.

Kelly Colón is an inspirational leader and the driving force behind Eledex Consulting, LLC. A unique consultancy dedicated to supporting individuals, families, organizations and institutions in their journey towards embracing and actualizing cognitive diversity as well as understanding organizational & occupational behavior.

As an accomplished consultant, neurodivergent coach, professor, author, speaker and advocate, Kelly’s multifaceted career is rooted in a deep personal commitment to ensuring all diversity; including cognitive diversity is not merely accepted but celebrated in our workplaces, our classrooms and in society.

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