Sensory Sensitivities in Product Research

Product design often assumes a “one-size-fits-all” approach, but sensory sensitivities vary widely, especially among neurodivergent individuals. For many neurodivergent people, sensory sensitivities profoundly affect how they experience products, from texture and color to sound and smell. By incorporating neurodivergent input into product research, companies can create designs that better accommodate diverse sensory needs and preferences. This article explores how brands can ethically and effectively gather insights from neurodivergent individuals to design products that are truly inclusive.

Why Sensory Sensitivity Matters in Product Design

Sensory sensitivities refer to heightened or reduced responses to sensory stimuli such as light, sound, texture, and temperature. Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder, often have unique sensory preferences that impact their interaction with products. For example, rough or unpredictable textures can cause discomfort, while certain sounds or lighting might be overstimulating.

Understanding these preferences isn’t just about making products accessible; it’s about enhancing comfort, usability, and overall satisfaction. By taking sensory sensitivities into account during product development, brands can build products that cater to a broader audience and demonstrate genuine inclusivity.

Best Practices for Designing Product Research with Neurodivergent Input

Here are essential practices for gathering feedback from neurodivergent individuals and designing products with sensory sensitivities in mind.

1. Create a Sensory-Friendly Testing Environment

To gather accurate insights, create a calm, controlled environment that minimizes external sensory triggers. This approach reduces participants’ stress, allowing them to focus on providing meaningful feedback.

• Example: If testing a new line of clothing, provide a quiet room with soft lighting and adjustable temperature settings. Allow participants to interact with the fabric samples in isolation, without loud music or bright lighting. Consider offering noise-canceling headphones or a space to take breaks, allowing participants to manage their sensory load.
• Tip: Explain the sensory environment beforehand and let participants know they can adjust it as needed. Offering a sensory-friendly setting helps neurodivergent individuals feel more comfortable and willing to engage.

2. Use Multiple Methods of Feedback Collection

Different neurodivergent individuals may prefer different ways to express their opinions. Some may prefer written feedback, while others might find visual or video responses more accessible. Offering multiple methods of feedback collection enables participants to choose what feels most natural.

• Example: In a product test for sensory-friendly kitchen utensils, provide options for written responses, voice recordings, or even photo and video feedback. Some participants might want to share photos of how they use the utensils at home, while others might prefer recording a short video describing their experience with the product.
• Tip: Allow participants to choose their preferred feedback format, and give them the option to share insights asynchronously if they need time to process their responses.

3. Test for Texture Preferences with Fabric or Product Samples

Texture can make or break a product experience for neurodivergent individuals, especially in categories like clothing, furniture, or personal care. Use texture samples to gather detailed feedback on what feels comfortable and what causes discomfort.

• Example: If developing a line of sensory-friendly clothing, offer fabric swatches with different textures, such as cotton, microfiber, and silk. Allow participants to rank the textures based on comfort and explain why certain textures appeal to them or feel irritating. Some participants may prefer smooth, seamless fabrics without tags, while others might appreciate breathable, slightly textured materials.
• Tip: Provide a wide variety of textures and let participants know it’s okay to reject textures that feel uncomfortable. The goal is to identify the most soothing and wearable options for neurodivergent individuals.

4. Consider Sensory Impact of Colors and Patterns

Certain colors, brightness levels, or patterns can be overstimulating for neurodivergent individuals. Use a range of colors and visual designs to determine what feels visually pleasing versus what might be overwhelming.

• Example: For a line of sensory-friendly home decor items, present sample designs with various colors and patterns, including muted tones, pastels, and high-contrast patterns. Ask participants how the colors make them feel, whether they find them calming or overstimulating, and which patterns they would be comfortable having in their space.
• Tip: Offer a mix of subtle and vibrant options, as well as simple and complex patterns. Record participant preferences and avoid high-contrast patterns if feedback indicates they are too stimulating for most users.

5. Allow Time for Adjusting and Processing

Neurodivergent individuals may need more time to process and respond to sensory experiences. Allow participants to interact with the product at their own pace, and provide flexibility in timing for responses.

• Example: During a product test for noise-canceling headphones, allow participants several minutes to try the headphones in different noise settings. Let them adjust to the feeling of wearing the headphones and experience varying levels of sound filtering. This helps capture more accurate feedback on comfort, effectiveness, and any potential sensory discomfort.
• Tip: Make it clear that there is no rush to respond. Offer a relaxed timeline, allowing participants to experience the product fully before providing their feedback.

6. Include Options for Adaptive Product Design

Some neurodivergent individuals have unique ways of interacting with products, so allowing for adaptive design options can enhance usability. Products that are customizable or come with adjustable features tend to be more accessible and comfortable.

• Example: If testing a sensory-friendly chair, provide options for different cushion materials, adjustable armrests, and removable back support. Ask participants how these customizations affect their comfort and which adjustments help them relax or reduce sensory overload.
• Tip: Emphasize that the product is adaptable to fit individual needs. This approach shows that the product is designed with flexibility in mind, which is particularly valuable for neurodivergent users with specific sensory preferences.

7. Use a Peer-Led or Neurodivergent-Friendly Approach

Consider involving neurodivergent researchers in the data collection process or collaborating with a neurodivergent advocate. This creates a relatable, supportive environment and makes participants feel understood.

• Example: If testing a new type of sensory-friendly bedding, partner with a neurodivergent individual as a co-researcher who can guide participants through the process. Peer-led research often feels more authentic and comfortable, fostering honest responses.
• Tip: Train neurotypical researchers on neurodivergent needs and sensitivities, or consult with neurodivergent professionals on best practices. This reduces potential biases and ensures the research design respects participants’ experiences.

Examples of Product Research Designs Incorporating Sensory Sensitivities

Here are a few specific research scenarios that illustrate how companies can gather meaningful insights from neurodivergent individuals by focusing on sensory-friendly practices:

1. Researching Sensory-Friendly Bedding Materials

   • Setup: Offer a range of bedding materials, such as soft cotton, hypoallergenic fabrics, and textured materials. Let participants touch, feel, and even lie on the fabrics in a quiet room.
   • Feedback Options: Participants can rate the textures on a comfort scale, describe how each material affects their sleep experience, or provide verbal feedback on fabric preferences.
   • Key Insight: Some neurodivergent individuals might find heavy or weighted blankets comforting, while others prefer lightweight materials to avoid sensory overload. By understanding these preferences, companies can offer a wider selection to meet diverse sensory needs.

2. Testing Low-Sound, Anti-Distraction Headphones

   • Setup: Provide headphones with different levels of noise cancellation and ambient sound filtering. Let participants test the headphones in various noise environments, from silent rooms to bustling spaces.
   • Feedback Options: Gather feedback on comfort, effectiveness in blocking noise, and any discomfort from prolonged wear. Allow participants to use the headphones over a few days if possible to simulate real-life usage.
   • Key Insight: Some neurodivergent users might appreciate headphones that offer a “safe” ambient sound setting rather than total silence, as complete noise cancellation can sometimes heighten sensory sensitivity.

3. Exploring the Impact of Product Packaging

   • Setup: Offer different packaging designs, including simple, minimalistic designs and more vibrant or detailed ones. Test the ease of opening, noise from packaging, and visual design elements.
   • Feedback Options: Participants can share written or verbal feedback about the colors, textures, and opening mechanisms of the packaging.
   • Key Insight: Autistic individuals might prefer packaging that is easy to open, free from crinkly sounds, and has muted colors. Understanding these needs helps brands develop packaging that minimizes discomfort and enhances accessibility.

Designing with Neurodivergent Input

Sensory-friendly product design goes beyond mere inclusivity; it’s about creating solutions that prioritize comfort and usability for all. By conducting research that honors neurodivergent sensory sensitivities, companies can make products that feel welcoming and comfortable to a diverse range of users. Incorporating neurodivergent input into product design not only improves satisfaction but also demonstrates a commitment to thoughtful, ethical, and user-centered innovation.

Ethical and inclusive product research that respects sensory sensitivities is a valuable investment. As companies take steps to understand and respond to neurodivergent needs, they set a standard for truly inclusive design, paving the way for a future where everyone’s sensory needs are recognized and respected.