The right technology makes diversity and inclusion (DEIB) goals a measurable reality. It can help companies track employee demographics and improve their DEI programs with data-driven insights.
Surveys
Surveys are a great way to collect and analyze employee feedback on diversity and inclusion. Teaming up with a reputable survey company can provide employees a secure platform to express their sensitive thoughts and opinions. For example, surveys can gauge the objectivity of company promotions and policies, whether employees feel they can grow professionally at the organization and their sense of belonging in the workplace.
Technology encompasses diversity and inclusion software and devices that assist persons with disabilities in navigating digital services and products. It can include simple innovations like speech-to-text and predictive text and more complex solutions, such as automated doors and mobile and ceiling hoists. Perceptibility is also essential to inclusive design, as it helps make information and feedback accessible to people with varying sensory abilities. For example, large screens and legible text make websites more user-friendly for people with visual or hearing impairments.
HRIS
An HRIS is a centralized database that revolutionizes how companies collect, store, and maintain employee data. Instead of spending hours searching through multiple filing cabinets, HR teams can instantly use an HRIS to locate any needed data. Additionally, many HRIS can load the latest federal and state laws and regulations and automatically run reports such as payroll balancing to ensure all required documentation is being filed properly.
Utilizing technology that promotes diversity and inclusion can effectively minimize the adverse effects of unconscious bias in the workplace. Unconscious bias pertains to the social stereotypes individuals unconsciously form, which can ultimately influence various aspects of work, such as hiring decisions and even microaggressions. Using technology that promotes inclusivity in training and development programs helps employees become aware of their biases and how to address them.
Finally, a top-tier HRIS can include features that connect employees to leadership and each other. It can be a powerful way to promote community and boost camaraderie within the organization.
Performance Management
When companies monitor diversity and inclusion, they should look at various metrics, from leadership demographics to the percentage of women in leadership positions. But the most important metric is whether or not employees feel included in their work environments. It can be measured through surveys, employee retention rates, and attrition.
Inclusive technology benefits businesses by improving employee performance, boosting productivity, and building brand reputation. It can also reduce costs and increase profits by lowering insurance and training expenses. In fact, according to the Job Accommodation Network (JAN), most workplace accommodations for people with disabilities cost less than $300.
Additionally, inclusive tech design helps businesses innovate, reach new audiences, and build customer loyalty. And consumers are increasingly preferring brands that prioritize inclusivity. Moreover, advanced sensory technologies can help bridge the accessibility gap in bright spaces for individuals with disabilities, enabling greater independence and control. These new technological advancements have the potential to transform how individuals with disabilities ultimately interact with their surroundings.
Training
Different people see problems in unique ways and are more likely to come up with solutions when they work together. Training that helps employees appreciate different perspectives and respect one another’s differences leads to more creative potential in the workplace, leading to better business outcomes.
Companies prioritizing inclusivity in their design practices are more likely to be considered user-friendly, which can positively affect customer satisfaction and brand reputation. Additionally, users of inclusive technology are more likely to recommend or share products, which can help businesses grow their reach into new markets.
Watch this thought-provoking leader panel in which education leaders discuss the need for powerful assistive technologies and accessible electronic materials (AEM) to enable students to achieve their learning goals. Learn about tools that allow students to listen to reading material, interact with text through various technology platforms, and search documents.