In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Miranda McKie about utilizing data-driven techniques to identify and mitigate systemic institutional barriers that impact underrepresented groups. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Jonathan and Miranda discussed the importance of addressing systemic issues and institutional barriers in the workplace using a data-driven approach. They emphasized the need for diverse and inclusive hiring practices, understanding diverse equity and inclusion, and considering diverse user needs in product design and business growth.
Addressing Systemic Issues in Diversity Initiatives
Jonathan and Miranda discussed the importance of addressing systemic issues and institutional barriers in the workplace. Miranda, the founder and CEO of Mckie consultants, emphasized the need to look beyond surface-level diversity initiatives and instead focus on the root causes of challenges. She highlighted the significance of data in identifying these issues, noting that it often involves examining employee, community, and supplier data, among other sources. The pair also discussed the challenges of marketing diversity initiatives and the potential for data to reveal deeper aspects of employee diversity beyond just race and ethnicity.
Diversifying Hiring and Understanding Employee Data
Miranda and Jonathan discussed the importance of considering a candidate's work experience and grit during the hiring process, rather than solely relying on academic achievement. They underscored the need for diverse and inclusive hiring practices, and the strategic business decision to attract and retain the right employees. Miranda suggested using data to understand trends and issues, such as the underrepresentation of certain groups like Indigenous peoples in their community. Both agreed on the necessity to go beyond easy metrics like grades and explore how to track and understand employee data across the entire life cycle.
Data-Driven Decisions and Equity Considerations
Miranda emphasized the importance of using data to drive strategic business decisions and highlighted the need for understanding diverse equity and inclusion. She pointed out that organizations often overlook the supplier side and the community they serve, suggesting there's potential for giving back and uplifting other organizations. Jonathan shared an anecdote about a female entrepreneur's experience with a venture capital firm, underscoring the need for equal representation and opportunity. Both agreed on the necessity for organizations to challenge assumptions, be thoughtful, and consider potential implications of their actions.
Inclusivity, Understanding Diverse User Needs, and Privilege
Miranda and Jonathan discussed the importance of inclusivity and understanding diverse user needs in product design and business growth. They discussed how ignoring the experiences of certain groups can lead to product non-usability and frustration. They also talked about their own experiences with privilege and how it has influenced their perspectives and behaviors. The discussion underscored the need for a data-driven approach to understand user needs and to make strategic decisions that drive business outcomes. They emphasized the complexities of different user groups and the need to avoid simplistic categorizations.
Data-Driven Leadership and Sustainable Goals
Jonathan and Miranda emphasized the importance of a data-driven approach and understanding one's team members for effective leadership. They highlighted the need to implement initiatives based on actual results rather than just good intentions. They also discussed the challenges of implementing large-scale organizational changes and the necessity for long-term, sustainable goals with supportive implementation plans. The conversation underscored the necessity of leaders actively engaging with their teams and creating an environment that fosters growth and development.
Miranda's Insights and Upcoming Resource Release
Jonathan and Miranda concluded their discussion with an invitation for the audience to connect with Miranda for further insights on her work. Miranda encouraged everyone, especially those starting with data and descriptive analytics, to consider incorporating data into their decision-making for strategic progress.
Listen to the webinar here:
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