The methods of neurodivergent design describe how to apply the ideas of Stimpunks in practice.
These methods connect the different parts of the Stimpunks ecosystem:
- ethics
- knowledge
- patterns
- design tools
- environments
Together they provide a practical workflow for designing spaces and systems that support neurodivergent people.
The Neurodivergent Design Workflow
Neurodivergent design follows an iterative process.
Observe experience↓Identify patterns↓Diagnose friction↓Apply design recipes↓Evaluate environments↓Iterate and adapt
Each step builds on the knowledge and tools provided across the Stimpunks ecosystem.
Step 1 — Observe Lived Experience
The first step in neurodivergent design is understanding how people experience environments.
See:
Examples include:
- sensory overload
- deep attention
- social exhaustion
- parallel presence
- attention capture
Understanding lived experience helps reveal where environments create friction.
Step 2 — Identify Patterns
Patterns describe recurring structures in neurodivergent life.
See:
Examples include:
- monotropism
- sensory load
- environment fit
- energy accounting
- masking pressure
Patterns reveal how attention, energy, and environments interact.
Step 3 — Diagnose Environmental Friction
Once patterns are identified, designers can evaluate environments.
See:
These tools help identify where environments create barriers such as:
- sensory overload
- attention fragmentation
- rigid participation expectations
- unsustainable energy demands
Diagnosis helps clarify what needs to change.
Step 4 — Apply Design Recipes
Design recipes translate patterns into practical design actions.
See:
Examples include:
- designing sensory-safe spaces
- creating predictable environments
- supporting flexible participation
- enabling intermittent collaboration
- designing attention sanctuaries
Recipes help designers implement changes that support neurodivergent people.
Step 5 — Evaluate the Environment
Once design changes are applied, environments can be evaluated.
See:
These tools help determine whether environments support:
- sustained attention
- sensory balance
- energy sustainability
- inclusive participation
Evaluation ensures that environments continue to improve.
Step 6 — Iterate and Adapt
Neurodivergent design is an ongoing process.
Environments evolve as people learn more about:
- attention systems
- sensory ecology
- participation structures
- community needs
The goal is not perfection but continuous improvement.
Methods and the Design Framework
These methods are part of the larger Stimpunks design system.
See:
The framework provides the conceptual structure, while the methods provide practical workflows.
Methods and Environments
These methods can be applied to many types of environments.
Examples include:
Each environment presents unique design challenges and opportunities.
Methods and Civilization
Over time, these methods can influence institutions and societies.
See:
When environments expect cognitive diversity, they become more humane for everyone.
Explore the Design System
To learn more about the Stimpunks design system, see:
Together these pages explain how ethics, knowledge, and design interact within the Stimpunks ecosystem.