9 Diversity and Inclusion

Question 1

Name some reasons as to why diversity in thought is a positive thing for a project?

Answer 1

• Value is created from difference.
• Higher performance through diverse skill sets.
• Helps to enable successful delivery of outcomes.
• ## Culture influences people’s beliefs and values, shaping their behaviours.

Question 2

What can a PM and project professionals do to further understand culture?

Answer 2

Research into cultures to understand behaviours.
Project professionals can also seek advice on how to better understand how to treat people fairly.

Question 3

What does better value stem from in a diverse team?

Answer 3

• Consideration of different perspectives.
• Enabling hybrid working in different offices, from home or even in different countries.
• Good leadership and communication.
• Reasonable adjustments to ensure equal ability and fairness.

Question 4

Higher performance is created from?

Answer 4

More perspectives, greater adaptability, wide-ranging skills, resilient community.

Question 5

What is the difference between conscious and unconscious?

Answer 5

Conscious bias involves deliberate thoughts and attitude, whereas unconscious bias operates involuntarily, often stemming from societal stereotypes.

Question 6

How can diversity of thought be harnessed?

Answer 6

When people from different backgrounds come together for a common purpose, and this further fosters a strong sense of community and inclusion.

Question 6

How can project teams and PMs foster a spirit of engagement and feeling valued?

Answer 6

• Creation of a sustained positive, inclusive working environment and address any barriers.
• Make reasonable adjustments to ensure everyone has a fair chance.
• Think about ways to communicate in an effective way.
• Remember that multiple dimensions of culture exist.
• Balance priorities and actively accept the need to treat people fairly.