It’s Not Just About Attention to Details: Redefining the Talents Autistic Software Developers Bring to Software Development

Abstract

Technology giants SAP, Google and Microsoft have recently begun hiring initiatives targeting individuals with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) for software development roles. In order to fully engage and include individuals with ASC, a deeper understanding of the cognitive style and talents of individuals with ASC is needed. In this paper we present an analysis of current cognitive theories of autism, and promote the theory of hyper-systemizing as one that best explains the talents and challenges that surface in ASC. We compare the talents of individuals with ASC to skills required of software developers and identify synergies between the developer skills and strengths of individuals with ASC, such as systemizing, information processing, and specialization of interests. Our analysis concludes with a synthesis of the strategies necessary to create inclusive workplaces that promote the professional development of individuals with ASC.