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Are there any studies and publications that show the benefits of diversity?

Awhile back we received a question “ Are there any studies and publications that show the benefits of diversity?”  

First let me say, we are so sorry that it has taken us this long to post.  I mean, duh, of course it would be a benefit to this community to provide a “diverse” range of resources i.e. experiences, discussions, best practices, studies and news.  With that in mind I have made time and space for this.

There is one request…. Please please please link any interesting studies and publications below, there is no way I could look, read and strategically review the mass amount of information available at our fingertips.

Lets begin

Havard Business Review does a good job of highlighting the benefits and challenges of diversity. A variety of viewpoints allows for robust creativity and ideas, yet is a hinderance to decision making for which ideas to pursue.  If groups are “too diverse” it leads to team conflict, though mindful leadership can be the linking point of any team. Also, individual diversity (experiences, values,personality) is just as important as demographic diversity.  I linked two of the studies which are focused more on diversity, but you can find the rest of the studies in the article

A different perspective: The multiple effects of deep level diversity on group creativity

Cognitive diversity and team creativity: Effects of team intrinsic motivation and transformational leadership

Catalyst Information Center reviewed many studies focused on the benefits of women in decision making positions, board directors, of corporations in europe.

Gender and the bottom line

Millennials at Work: Perspectives on Diversity & Inclusion, Yes Yes Yes . I know an article on MILLENNIALS, but this is major demographic of the workforce and I’m sure you interact with millennials everyday.  You recruit us, mentor us, heck made one of us maybe your boss and that should be taken into account. Personally as a millennial of the ‘86 class, I think we will be just fine.

Why Diversity Matters

Does Diversity Pay

Understanding the Multiple Effects of Diversity in Organizational Groups

The Center of Diversity and the Environment has an impressive collection of resources.  Not all of them are discussing the benefits of diversity, but they do highlight the spectrum of diversity in the environment from participaction, advocacy, training, justice and …. Well you’ll have to check it out for yourself.

Oh and don’t forget to link your own studies below. thanks