Inclusive Design in Ergonomics 5.0 for an Enhanced Workplace Experience

This chapter explores the essential role of inclusive design within the Ergonomics 5.0 paradigm, demonstrating how accessibility and neuroinclusive standards, best practices, and behavioural and attitudinal data from building occupants can be integrated to enhance workplace experience and support more equitable work environments. It traces the shift from traditional accommodation-based approaches to predictive inclusive design strategies that proactively address the needs of individuals with diverse abilities, backgrounds, and characteristics while generating benefits for the broader workforce. This chapter examines how emerging technologies, including big data, artificial intelligence, digital twins, adaptive interfaces, and bespoke data-informed design methodologies, can be used to shape environments that respond more effectively to individual needs, preferences, and lived experiences. It explores the business case for inclusive design, demonstrating how improved accessibility often leads to innovations that benefit wider user populations. The chapter also outlines design methodologies that embed diversity considerations from the earliest stages of concept development. Practical frameworks are presented for implementing inclusive ergonomic solutions across multiple work contexts, addressing challenges such as technology adoption, data-informed design processes, and organisational culture change. Case studies illustrate successful applications of inclusive design principles in office and service environments, showing measurable improvements in both accessibility and overall system performance. The chapter concludes by recommending strategies for building organisational capabilities that support sustained inclusive innovation and the creation of workplaces that reflect the full spectrum of human diversity.