A Study of the Perceptions of Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives in Producing Improved Productive Work Cultures

Organizations today view diversity in the workforce as extending beyond antidiscrimination laws. Diversity in the workplace is viewed as a means for organizations to maintain a competitive edge in the global job market by focusing on inclusion and performance. Organizations have begun to recognize that diversity results in economic benefits when initiatives are aligned with their strategic plans, goals, and core values (U.S. Department of Commerce, 1999). The purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions of departmental personnel regarding the impact of diversity and inclusion initiatives in improving and sustaining productive work cultures. Additionally, this study sought to determine whether a relationship exists between perceptions of departmental personnel and their department’s work culture scores. Findings of the study included the following. Departmental personnel perceived the four survey constructs (Relationship with Team Members, Relationship with Manager, Individual’s Behavior and Attitudes, and Overall Work Culture) as impactful (useful) in improving and sustaining productive work cultures. Qualitative themes resulting from focus groups supported this research question. The only department where there was no significant difference between the managers’ and staff members’ ratings of section 2 of the Diversity and Inclusion Perceptions Survey was Department A. Departments B through E indicated there was a significant difference between the managers’ and staff members’ ratings on section 2 of the Diversity and Inclusion Perceptions Survey. Departmental personnel identified diversity and inclusion initiatives, Workshops and Learning Modules and Team Coaching, as being more impactful (useful) to their work cultures with no significant difference in manager and staff rankings. Lastly, there was a significant relationship between departmental personnel ratings of their perceptions of diversity and inclusion initiatives and work culture Tier scores