Measuring the Success of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Programs

Discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) are center stage in organizations and communities. The question is, why does it take video coverage of acts of social injustice to elevate its importance? The conversation about DE&I is not new – it’s just that DE&I is a topic where attention ebbs and flows. When inequities and bad behavior risk or damage individual or organizational reputation, microscopic focus ensues. When things seem to rock along smoothly, focus moves elsewhere. Organization leaders pledge hundreds of millions of dollars to commission studies, launch training sessions, and hire consultants and diversity czars. But is it working? Some experts argue that despite decades of handwringing, costly initiatives, and uncomfortable conversations, organizations have, apart from a few exceptions, fallen far short of their goals.

Renewed interest in DE&I is prompting organization leaders to reflect on the progress (or lack of progress) they have made with these efforts. As one Wall Street Journal article states, “It’s time to move from saying, “We need to do this” to asking, “What are we doing with this?” Showing the value of DE&I investments can be challenging for some professionals. This session will describe how to measure the success of DE&I programs.