In his latest State of the Union address, President Barack Obama mentioned the word “innovation” nine times, more than any other president ever has, according to Fareed Zakaria. This highlights a key point that in this new era, rife with volatility and ambiguity, innovation is critical in sustaining organic growth and securing success in a globally competitive environment. We know that there exists a strong connection between innovation and diversity and inclusion; our challenge is to help our leaders and fellow professionals understand that connection. By exploring scientific research, corporate practice and personal observation, this article aims to connect those dots. While business lore tends to link innovation with a creative drive that is exclusive to the top and brightest talent, true innovation thrives in an inclusive culture that values diverse ideas, leverages unique perspectives and invites everyone to achieve collaborative breakthroughs across the entire organization.
A Diverse Workforce Is a
Valuable Source of Innovation
The vital foundation for innovation derives from a diverse workforce.
Diversity of talent, by definition,
provides more ideas and perspec-
tives into driving for the best busi-
ness solutions. Diversity becomes
a valuable resource for innova-
tion through a diverse workforce
that reflects today’s marketplace
through consumer insights and
“wisdom of the crowd” that can
lead to creative betterment.
Diversity Means Quality
BETTER
3. 5
3.0
QUALITY OF IDEA
2. 5
2.0
1. 5
WORSE
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
MORE
DIVERSITY IN AN EMPLOYEE’S RELATIONSHIPS
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