The ROI of Diversity and Inclusion Training Costs

Beyond the Bottom Line: The Untapped Potential and Low Cost of Sensory-Friendly Solutions

Imagine this: A young boy, brimming with excitement, enters a bustling amusement park with his family. The sights, sounds, and smells bombard him. Bright flashing lights, loud music, and crowded walkways trigger sensory overload. His excitement melts into tears, frustration, and a meltdown. This scenario isn’t uncommon. In fact, studies show that 5-16% of the population in the USA has a sensory processing disorder. That is at least 1 in every 20 people who have sensory differences as a distinct disorder alone.

Moreover, this isn’t just a childhood issue. Beyond sensory processing disorder, sensory sensitivities and overload can be experienced by people of all ages and abilities, including those with neurodiversity, autism, PTSD, post-concussion syndrome, hearing loss, dementia, developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, long-covid, low vision, sensory processing disorders, traumatic brain injury, and more. These sensitivities can be temporary or permanent, impacting individuals across their lifespan. Making: Demystifying Sensory Inclusion: Where Everyone Feels Welcome a necessary part of work training.

If you think your diversity and inclusion training costs shouldn’t address disabilities or hidden disabilities, you are missing out on an opportunity to more than cover your costs with a return on investment that will keep giving back with added revenue, customer loyalty and happy workers. The better question is the cost of NOT engaging your team, big or small, in diversity training programs that include disability.

In fact, Inclusion goes beyond accessibility—discover how sensory-friendly practices play a vital role by reading our blog: Understanding Inclusive Practices: Why Being Sensory Friendly is Essential .

The Business Case for Sensory-Friendly Solutions

While diversity and inclusion (DEI) training is a crucial first step, it may not include addressing sensory needs. Furthermore, focusing solely on traditional diversity training, that does not include disabilities or hidden disabilities, also comes at a cost. Here’s why investing in sensory-friendly solutions makes good business sense:

• Expands Your Customer Base: The World Health Organization shares that 1.3 billion people have disabilities, that is 16% of the population. That means almost 1 in 6 people have a disabilities. By creating sensory-friendly spaces, you tap into this vast and often overlooked market segment. Think quieter play areas in restaurants, dimmed lighting options in stores, and designated quiet zones in event venues. The solutions can be simple and often low or no cost and do not add to your diversity and inclusion training costs.
• Increase Revenue: A report by Accenture shares that companies that lead in disability inclusion drive more revenue, net income and profit. The cost of diversity training programs that include disabilities, thus offer a substantial return on investment. Sensory-friendly solutions go beyond physical accessibility, creating a welcoming environment for everyone, fostering loyalty and positive word-of-mouth.
• Boosts Employee Productivity: An Oxford study says that happy workers are 13% more productive. when they work in environments designed for well-being. Sensory-friendly features like adjustable lighting, noise-canceling headphones, and designated quiet spaces can create a calmer, more comfortable work environment for everyone, ultimately boosting employee well-being and happiness.
• Reduces Risk and Liability: Failing to accommodate sensory needs can lead to legal issues. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Many countries have similar legislation, regulation or initiatives in place. Implementing sensory-friendly solutions demonstrates your commitment to accessibility and reduces the risk of lawsuits.

Storytelling: Putting the Power of Sensory-Friendly Solutions into Action

Layla, a talented graphic designer, felt a wave of anxiety wash over her as she stepped into the brightly lit office. The constant hum of machinery and the chatter of colleagues overwhelmed her senses. Layla, who is neurodivergent, struggled to concentrate and felt drained throughout the workday. In fact, this scenario is all too familiar for many individuals with sensory sensitivities.

However, imagine a different outcome. Layla enters an office with adjustable lighting options, designated quiet zones, and noise-canceling headphones available. These sensory-friendly solutions empower Layla to thrive in her role. As a result, she can focus on her work, collaborate effectively with colleagues, and contribute her full potential to the company’s success.

Want to discover more examples? Read our blog: Accessibility Training for Businesses: Your Guide to Creating Inclusive Workplaces

The cost of diversity training in the workplace

While the cost of diversity training programs is a legitimate consideration, it’s crucial to consider the hidden costs of not implementing them. A lack of training on diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and sensory-friendliness can lead to a cascade of negative consequences. For instance, this might include employee dissatisfaction, high turnover rates, missed opportunities to attract top talent from diverse backgrounds, and even potential legal issues. Ultimately, fostering a truly inclusive environment through training creates a more engaged and productive workforce, leading to a much stronger return on investment than the initial training expense.

Beyond Training: A Comprehensive Approach to Sensory-Friendly Environments

While diversity training lays the foundation for inclusivity, it doesn’t necessarity address the nuances of sensory processing. Sensory Friendly Solutions offers a comprehensive approach that equips businesses and organizations with the knowledge and tools to create truly inclusive spaces. Here are some actionable steps you can take:

• Conduct a Sensory Audit: Evaluate your environment from the perspective of sensory processing. Identify areas that might be overwhelming, such as noisy waiting rooms or brightly lit conference halls.
• Implement Sensory-Friendly Design Features: Offer adjustable lighting options, provide noise-reducing materials, and create quiet spaces for relaxation or focused work.
• Develop Sensory-Friendly Practices: Train staff on how to identify and accommodate sensory needs. Offer flexible work arrangements and breaks to accommodate individuals who may need to manage sensory overload.
• Partner with Sensory Friendly Solutions: Our team of experts can guide you through the process of creating a sensory-friendly environment, providing training, certification, consulting, and product recognition programs.

By going beyond traditional diversity training and embracing sensory-friendly solutions, you can unlock a world of benefits. Importantly, you’ll expand your customer base, enhance employee productivity, and create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

The Cost of Diversity Training Programs in Customer-serving Businesses

Beyond the Price Tag

The cost of diversity training programs in customer-facing roles may seem like an initial hurdle. However, the true cost lies in neglecting these crucial skills. Without training in cultural sensitivity, disability awareness, and sensory-friendliness, businesses risk alienating a significant portion of the customer base. This can lead to negative online reviews, lost sales opportunities, and damage to brand reputation. Investing in diversity training empowers employees to connect with a wider range of customers, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment that translates to customer satisfaction, loyalty, and ultimately, a significant boost to the bottom line. Check out: Sensory-Friendly Training Programs: A Key to Inclusion and Accessibility.

Call to Action:

The question isn’t what the diversity and inclusion trainig cost. The question is, what is the cost to your business, organizations and reputation of not training your team on diversity and inclusion? On accessibilty and disability? On being sensory-friendly? Inclusion Training: The Power of Sensory-Friendly Practices

Ready to explore how Sensory Friendly Solutions can help your business or organization become more sensory-friendly, accessible, and inclusive? Watch this short video from our founder below about our training membership.

Funding Your Journey to Sensory-Friendly Solutions

Investing in sensory-friendly training and creating a more inclusive environment is a wise financial decision, but budgeting for these initiatives can be a concern. Here are some funding options to consider:

• Internal Budget Allocation: Demonstrate the potential return on investment (ROI) of sensory-friendly solutions, such as increased employee productivity and customer satisfaction, with this blog post! Analyze the potential cost savings from reduced employee turnover or legal issues.
• Grant Opportunities: Several government agencies and non-profit organizations offer grants specifically for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Research grant opportunities related to disability inclusion or sensory-friendly spaces. For Canadian organizations, check out our funding blog post.
• Make a difference affordably with our low-cost, on-demand sensory-friendly training.

Additional Tips to Address the Cost of Your Diversity Training Programs

• Start Small: Implement sensory-friendly solutions in phases. Begin with low-cost changes you learn about with our training, like offering noise-canceling headphones or creating a designated quiet space.
• Seek Employee Input: Involve employees in brainstorming cost-effective solutions for creating a more sensory-friendly environment.
• Track Your Progress: Monitor the impact of your sensory-friendly initiatives. Quantify the benefits, such as improved employee morale or increased customer satisfaction, to strengthen your case for future funding.

While funding is an important consideration, remember that even small changes can make a big difference. By exploring innovative and resourceful solutions, you can embark on the journey of creating a truly inclusive environment for everyone.

And discover more as you dive deeper into the world of sensory-friendly solutions with our latest blog posts!