The intentional design of digital, physical, and learning environments that support diverse cognitive needs through clarity, predictability, and reduced cognitive load.

The degree to which an environment, system, or process is easy to understand, navigate, and engage with for people who think and process information differently.

The amount of mental effort required to understand information or complete a task. High cognitive load creates overwhelm; low load supports clarity and focus.

Designing systems so that people with different cognitive profiles have equal access to participation, understanding, and success — not just physical access.

The natural variation in human cognitive functioning, including differences in attention, learning, processing, memory, and sensory experience.

A term describing individuals whose cognitive functioning differs from what is typically expected in society (for example, autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, or dyspraxic individuals).

A set of mental skills — such as planning, memory, organisation, and impulse regulation — that support everyday functioning and goal-directed behaviour.

A state where the brain is required to process more information than it can manage, leading to stress, reduced performance, and difficulty making decisions.

Creating environments and systems with clear structure, consistent patterns, and upfront expectations to reduce uncertainty and support emotional safety.

A sense of psychological security where individuals feel safe to participate, ask questions, and make mistakes without fear of judgement or misinterpretation.

The amount of sensory input in an environment — such as light, noise, colour, or movement — which can impact focus, comfort, and accessibility.

Designing systems so that users can easily find what they need without confusion, excessive searching, or trial-and-error.

Points in a system where unclear instructions, complexity, or poor design create unnecessary mental effort or frustration.

Clear, concise communication that avoids jargon, ambiguity, and unnecessary complexity, making information accessible to a wide range of users.

Simple, recognisable icons, symbols, colours, or layouts that help users quickly understand information or navigate a system.

Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps to support understanding, reduce overwhelm, and improve completion.

How much information is presented at once. Lower density reduces cognitive load and helps users process content more easily.

A design approach that ensures environments and systems are usable by as many people as possible, regardless of ability or learning style.

A method of creating products and processes that consider a wide range of user needs from the start, rather than adding accommodations later.

A shared belief that a group or team environment is safe for interpersonal risk-taking, honesty, and authentic participation.

Tools or devices — for example, screen readers, voice-to-text software, or digital note-taking tools — that support access and reduce cognitive demands.

Designing solutions collaboratively with the people who will use them, ensuring lived experience actively shapes the final outcome.

The study and design of systems that align with how people naturally think, learn, and process information, reducing strain and improving usability.

Meetings structured with clear agendas, predictable formats, and inclusive communication practices that reduce cognitive load for all participants.

Ensuring everyone — regardless of cognitive profile, ability, or background — can access, understand, and benefit from digital systems and information.