SAP to globally employ people with Autism as software testers

NEW DELHI: Encouraged by the success of India pilot project of employing people suffering from autism, German IT major SAP is looking to replicate the practice globally to leverage their unique talents.


"In support of its mission to help the world run better and improve people's lives, SAP announced it will work globally ... to employ people with autism as software testers, programmers and data quality assurance specialists," SAP said in a statement.

SAP has tied up with Specialisterne, a social innovator company, for this purpose.

The global announcement follows successful pilot projects in India and Ireland that demonstrate the positive impact of empowering people with autism to excel in their areas of strength, it added.

SAP sees a potential competitive advantage to leveraging the unique talents of people with autism, while also helping them to secure meaningful employment.

It is estimated that one percent of the world's population is affected by autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder), it added.

SAP Labs in India hired six people with autism as software testers for SAP Business Suite applications. As a result, the team has increased their productivity and cohesiveness in key areas, it said.

Besides, SAP Labs in India recently developed a consumer iPad application called 'Bol' to assist with the education of children with autism.

This innovative learning program helps children learn and comprehend simple, everyday objects and processes, using auditory, visual and instant feedback functions.