Getting Unstuck: Designing a better work experience for ADHD.

This thesis addresses the challenges faced by adults with ADHD in the workplace. As mental health awareness has grown over the years, it has also become clear that the existing systems, including the way we work, are not suitable for a diverse range of individuals.

The way we are expected to work has been designed as one-size fits all, inevitably pushing people with different needs to the sidelines, and making them work harder than necessary.Rigid work structures, inflexible workspaces and communication barriers contribute to the feelings of exclusion for individuals with ADHD. I have decided to focus specifically on three key areas that impact the way individuals with ADHD work: time management, task initiation and prioritisation. I chose these areas because they can have a significant effect on individuals productivity, well-being and career paths.

Individuals with ADHD are known to be highly creative, innovative and empathetic, they tend to adapt more easily to new situations, so they have a lot to bring to the table. But these positive characteristics can often go unnoticed, overshadowed by their forgetfulness, inability to pay attention, impulsivity, and so much more. As a designer, I think a lot of these negative characteristics could be avoided with a more supportive environment and appropriate tools.

The goal for this thesis is to develop interaction design solutions that provide individuals with ADHD, tools to help them create a more inclusive and supportive work experience. The aim is to empower them and help them reach their full potential. I also hope that this thesis will help to reduce the stigma associated with ADHD.

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