Proactivity with diversity? It’s how to start leaving behind the staleness in thought processes and innovation which homogeny creates.
In the fast-paced world of technology, innovation is the currency of success.
The tech sector now understands the critical importance of ‘diversity of thought’ in driving this innovation.
However, IT companies and tech start-ups still need to make significant strides in achieving more gender-balanced teams to fully harness this potential, writes Gemma Branney, global director of purpose and inclusion at staffing giant SThree.
A £63billion problem (which we can all do something about)
Worryingly, and hopefully imminent Autumn Budget 2024 will address this, the UK economy could be missing out on as much as £63 billion a year in potential GDP.
That £63 billion which the UK is foregoing (according to the Tech Talent Charter’s Diversity in Tech 2022 Report) has amassed, because technology companies aren’t attracting enough diverse talent.
The power of diverse perspectives
Diverse and inclusive teams bring together a range of experiences, viewpoints, and problem-solving approaches that can lead to more creative and effective solutions.
This diversity is especially crucial in the tech industry, where the challenges are complex and often require ‘out-of-the-box’ thinking.
Innovation dies where homogeneity in thought processes thrives
Gender-balanced teams, in particular, combine the unique strengths and perspectives of both men and women, fostering an environment where diverse ideas can flourish.
Historically, the UK’s IT industry has been male-dominated.
This disproportionately large concentration of males has led to a certain homogeneity in thought processes and innovation approaches.
Why gender-diverse tech teams tend to smash it
However studies have shown that gender-diverse teams tend to be more innovative and effective; in other words, these teams tend to smash it!
Why? It’s simply because men and women tend to bring different perspectives to the table, challenging each other’s ideas and assumptions.
We believe and have seen, that this dynamic can lead to more thorough analysis and better decision-making on technology projects and programmes.
Gender-balanced teams 21% more likely to report a better bottom line
Several tech organisations are already reaping the benefits of gender-balanced teams.
For instance, a global study by McKinsey found that companies with greater gender diversity were 21% more likely to experience above-average profitability.
Additionally, teams that embrace gender diversity emerged as more likely to capture new markets and increase their market share.
IBM and Google are leading the way in gender diversity
IBM and Google have made significant strides in promoting gender diversity.
Big Blue’s initiatives to create a more inclusive workplace have not only improved gender balance but also led to ground-breaking advancements in AI and quantum computing.
Similarly, Google’s efforts in fostering a diverse work environment have driven innovations in their products and services, making them more user-friendly and accessible to a broader audience.
Policies to get the most value out of gender-balanced IT teams…
To harness the full potential of gender-balanced teams, tech companies must be proactive in their diversity efforts.
This includes implementing policies that support gender diversity, such as:
– equitable hiring practices,
– mentorship programmes, and
– a culture that values and respects diverse perspectives.
Individuals in technology leadership positions must champion these initiatives, recognising that diversity is not just a ‘box’ to check but a strategic advantage.
By creating an environment where everyone’s voice is heard and valued, companies can unlock the full potential of their teams.
Elevate Careers: what we at SThree are doing on gender-diversity
How do we know this? Well, as STEM staffing specialists, we have initiatives designed to help clients broaden the talent pools from which we recruit.
One such initiative is Elevate Careers, our social impact programme that leverages the expertise of our recruiters and clients to support individuals from diverse backgrounds who often face barriers in their STEM careers.
In 2023, we partnered with 39 clients, delivering activities that positively impacted the career paths of 2,754 people.
Client feedback frequently highlights that gender-diverse teams are more innovative and effective.
Where women in technology are increasingly coming forward
We are observing a spike in the number of women applying for roles in Software Development, Cloud Architecture, Data Science, DevOps, and Cyber Security.
The growing demand for skilled practitioners in AI and Machine Learning is also underscoring this upward trend in female technologists coming forward.
Gender balance as a tech employer; is yours in place?
In the tech sector, where innovation and problem-solving are paramount, gender-balanced teams have shown that they can indeed smash it.
By bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusion, teams with an equitable ratio of men and women are driving the industry forward, in ways that homogeneous teams simply cannot.
Finally, it’s clear that gender-diverse IT firms will win the day
The future of tech is diverse, and those IT employers who embrace this reality are the ones who will lead the charge in innovation and success.
By recognising and leveraging the strengths of gender-diverse teams, the tech industry can build a more inclusive, dynamic, and innovative future. For companies looking to stay ahead of the curve, embracing gender diversity is not just an option—it’s a necessity.
Gemma Branney
Gemma Branney is the global director of purpose and inclusion at SThree. With extensive recruitment experience, Gemma excels in delivering impactful diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and environment, social, and governance (ESG) strategies. As a purpose-driven leader, Gemma is dedicated to fostering culture change and sustainability, ensuring that every employee thrives.
