1. Research & Problem Framing

Conducted a structured literature review on employment-related assistive technology for autistic adults to identify systemic gaps in adult-focused workplace support.

Synthesized research findings highlighting three primary workplace barriers:

• Executive functioning challenges

• Social-communication demands

• Sensory overstimulation

Analyzed limitations of current solutions (VR interview tools, productivity apps, standalone sensory tools) and identified the need for a context-aware, integrated system rather than isolated interventions.

Grounded the solution in the HAAT model (Human, Activity, Assistive Technology, Context) to ensure alignment between user traits, workplace demands, and environmental factors.

2. System Architecture & Interaction Design

Designed WAAT as a dual-platform toolkit (mobile + desktop web) to support real-world workplace workflows.

Structured the system into three integrated modules:

Executive Functioning Module

• Adaptive scheduling and structured reminders

• Task breakdown into incremental, time-boxed steps

• Visual triage system (High/Medium/Low priority)

• Explicit deadline indicators

• Hierarchical subtask visualization to reduce cognitive overload

Communication Support Module

• Interview preparation scaffolding with strategy tips and templates

• Explicit breakdown of workplace norms (communication protocols, social dynamics, accommodations)

• Textual Composition Assistant with tone and structure feedback for professional emails

Sensory Regulation Module

• Environmental awareness tools

• Coping strategy recommendations

• Context-sensitive support integrated into the workflow

Designed the dashboard as a central navigation hub featuring:

• Quantitative progress visualization

• Modular tool cards

• Explicit visualization of the HAAT framework to reinforce system logic

3. Prototyping & Evaluation

Developed a high-fidelity interactive prototype demonstrating mobile and desktop workflows.

Moved beyond static usability testing by incorporating:

• Contextual walkthroughs

• Persona-based assessments

Applied cognitive walkthrough methods to evaluate task clarity and real-world workplace applicability.

Acknowledged prototype-stage constraints, including backend AI simulation (“Wizard of Oz” approach), enterprise integration limitations, and the need for longitudinal validation.