In some cases, individuals are placed in existing jobs. But more often, jobs are developed specifically for individuals, based on an understanding of their interests, abilities, and skills, and on an analysis of the distribution of work at a particular site. Specific tasks are often reallocated to the new position, freeing up other employees' time in some instances, and increasing efficiency and cost effectiveness. Supported employment techniques can also be applied more generally to all employees. However, these techniques can also be applied to skilled, experienced employees to improve job performance and to provide a more supportive, effective work environment.
Supported employment encourages inclusion.
A diverse workforce benefits not only those individuals who would ordinarily be excluded, but also coworkers and the organization as a whole. It fosters greater communication and understanding, and, because a diverse workforce is one that is representative of the larger community, those benefits extend beyond the workplace. Individuals with disabilities have traditionally been perceived as unemployable. And yet, experience with supported employment has shown that people with significant developmental disabilities are capable of learning a much greater variety of tasks, and more complex tasks, than many employers imagined. Employers often praise these new employees as capable, highly motivated, and reliable.