Empowering potential: AI’s role in disability inclusion

Authored by Neil Barnett, Senior Director of Accessibility 

Every year on December 3rd we celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This year, we’re excited to share how AI is a powerful tool for empowerment, accessibility, and independence and to share results of a new collaborative study with EY that explored the impact of Microsoft 365 Copilot for neurodiverse individuals and persons with disabilities in the workplace.

Globally, 1 in 5 people identify as neurodivergent [1], an umbrella term which refers to variances in how the brain processes information. Neurodiversity includes conditions such as autism, ADHD (Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and Tourette’s syndrome. With 53% of Gen Z identifying as neurodivergent, a trend predicted to intensify with Gen Alpha, reaching up to 70%, or more, we need technologies to support and empower this more, we need technologies to support and empower this workforce [2].  

The study reveals insights into how AI-powered tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot are transforming experiences for neurodiverse individuals in the workplace. 

Breaking barriers, creating opportunities

The study involved over 300 employees identifying as neurodivergent or disabled from 17 organizations across seven sectors, with most participants based in Europe. The results identify how Copilot is breaking down barriers for neurodivergent and disabled employees. As a tool that can enhance communication, memory recall, and focus, Copilot empowers employees to fully participate and thrive in their roles. This can help create new opportunities for individual growth and foster a more inclusive and productive work environment. 

Key findings highlight several critical areas of impact: 

• Communication: For individuals with speech and/or writing disabilities, Copilot provides robust communication support, helping individuals express themselves more effectively and confidently. According to the study, 91% of respondents consider Copilot a helpful assistive technology. One participant with moderate hearing loss shared how Copilot’s ability to summarize phone calls has been invaluable. This feature supports them in performing their role without the anxiety of missing important information or constantly asking customers to repeat themselves.

• Workplace inclusion: By offering real-time assistance with complex tasks, Copilot helps reduce cognitive load and provides adaptive support. The study found 85% of participants believe Copilot can create a more inclusive workplace. A person with dyspraxia explained how Copilot has transformed their email communication process. Frequently, they need to prepare a diverse range of email communications for various stakeholders, and they utilized Copilot to customize the messages for each audience. Copilot helped reduce some of the stress and anxiety they experienced during the drafting process.

• Learning and skill development: Copilot assists in breaking down complex information, making learning more accessible and personalized for individuals with cognitive disabilities. The study revealed that 76% of respondents report that using Copilot can help them thrive more at work. Someone who speaks English as a 2nd language and is dyslexic described how Copilot has revolutionized their written communication by helping them express their ideas with correct grammar and spelling, making their writing more precise, concise, and formal.

A commitment to continuous improvement

This study is part of our ongoing work to increase understanding of how Copilot and other Microsoft tools can improve the workplace. We’re committed to continuous dialogue with the neurodivergent and disability community, understanding needs, and evolving our technologies to further empower everyone in the workplace. By focusing on the incredible human potential and what people can achieve with the right tools, we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive.  

Our journey is guided by a simple yet powerful principle: Technology should empower everyone. 

As we commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let’s celebrate progress, acknowledge the work ahead, and reaffirm our commitment to creating a more accessible world. 

Read the full study from EY: GenAI for accessibility: more human, not less. 

References 

1 DCEG Staff. (2022, April 25). Neurodiversity. NIH: National Cancer Institute Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics. 

2 Fegan, E. (2024, May 17). Neurodiversity inclusion: Leaders share how to unlock potential & maximize success. Texthelp.