Diverting round obstacles to diversity: University celebrates success – and shares mistakes

Abstract

Purpose

Reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

Institutions committed to implementing a diversity initiative should conduct a pre‐assessment before engaging in the formal institution‐wide process. The purpose is to develop an understanding of the culture, its receptiveness to diversity initiatives, and willingness to embrace change. Understanding the internal forces, the level of openness or resistance, the sources of resistance and identifying champions will enable the process to be informed. A pre‐assessment effort would minimize surprises, roadblocks, and derailers. Launching any university‐wide initiative needs significant financial support and dedicated personnel. The long‐term financial and human resources implications should be carefully reviewed before beginning the process. A transparent budget and timely feedback will assist in the development and execution of the activities in the action plans. The key factor required for a successful transformational change process is the leadership of the institution. The leadership team must demonstrate its commitment to achieving the goals and supporting the process the institution is about to undertake.

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Social implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that can have a broader social impact.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2011), "Diverting round obstacles to diversity: University celebrates success – and shares mistakes", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 25 No. 1, pp. 22-24. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777281111096807