April 2nd is observed as World Autism Awareness Day every year to create awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a broad range of conditions characterized by repetitive behavior and challenges with social skills, speech, and communication.
In India, an estimated 18 million people have ASD, according to reports. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 recognizes ASD as one of the 21 disabilities.
Classified under the neurodivergent group, people on the spectrum are increasingly being seen as valuable to organizations.
We look at some case studies and evidence that support the need to include the group.
JP Morgan Chase: The organization has triggered a discourse around hiring people with ASD. The organization has been onboarding people with ASD as Software Engineers, Data Analysts, Personal Bankers, KYC, Fraud & Dispute Specialists. Reports on the initiative say they found a number of advantages:
- High-problem solving capability
- Commitment and dedication to work
- Persistence
- Specialized interests and skills – technical, analytical ability
University of Montreal study: Testing for visual patterns, the study found that people on the spectrum could complete their tasks 40% faster than those who were not on the spectrum.
Autism in Adulthood: A study by researchers Rosie Cope and Anna Remington called ‘The Strengths and Abilities of Autistic People’ in the Workplace has observed a range of benefits. The study gathered responses from the group on their experiences and views about their areas of capability. “The main strengths identified from these data revealed cognitive advantages such as superior creativity, focus, and memory; increased efficiency and personal qualities such as honesty and dedication; and the ability to offer a unique autism-specific perspective.”
