This article examines the protection goal of "exclusion prevention" and the design requirement of "design for inclusion and accessibility", which are part of the initial considerations for a roadmap on artificial intelligence (AI) in occupational science research. The proposed roadmap systematically breaks down framework conditions, design requirements, instrumental goals and protection goals. The concept presented provides guidance for future research and can also serve as a basis for scientific policy advice. The in-depth examination of inclusion and AI takes place against the background that, on the one hand these aspects are underrepresented in occupational science research, and technological development can lead to a surge of change, particularly in the area of inclusive work design, on the other. Two expert workshops were held to answer the research question of what opportunities and risks AI technologies offer for the professional integration of people with disabilities, and what research and development needs to exist. The results show that some useful systems already exist, but that they can also have negative effects and that there is a need for further development.

Practical relevance: The presented aspects of the roadmap on artificial intelligence (AI) from the perspective of occupational science research is relevant for both companies and policy actors who want to gain a systematic overview of AI in the world of work. A particular focus is on the issue of inclusive work design. In an expert workshop, it became clear that an optimistic view of the use of artificial intelligence for inclusive work design prevails both in companies or workshops employing people with disabilities and in the field of consulting. At the same time, however, development needs and potential risks were identified. The results provide an overview of the current potential uses of AI and are also of interest to companies that do not yet employ people with disabilities but are planning to do so.

This article is published in Journal "Zeitschrift für Arbeitswissenschaft" (2025).