Guiding a Membership Organisation on Their DEI Journey
Problem:
A prominent membership organisation reached out to Viridian DEI Consulting with a question that resonates with many organisations today: "How do we begin our DEI journey?" Like many others, they recognised the importance of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion but needed a clear strategy to drive meaningful change and address the needs of their diverse members.
Method:
Step 1: A Comprehensive Survey
We started by conducting a comprehensive survey, aimed at capturing the perspectives of their diverse membership. This survey gathered invaluable insights into the experiences and concerns of the members, pinpointing areas that required immediate attention.
Step 2: Focus Group Sessions
Building on the survey’s findings, we facilitated focus group sessions, where we engaged with members on a more personal level. These sessions gave voice to individual experiences and challenges, allowing us to delve deeper into the root causes of exclusion or inequity within the organisation.
Step 3: Comprehensive Roadmap
With the data and insights gathered, we crafted a detailed report that identified key areas for improvement. This report included tailored, actionable recommendations and an action plan designed to guide the organisation on its path toward becoming more inclusive and equitable. We prioritised attention on underrepresented groups that had been overlooked, while also ensuring the broader membership's needs were addressed.
Solution:
The tailored DEI roadmap we developed provided the organisation with a clear path forward, including specific initiatives that directly addressed the concerns raised by their members. Our recommendations ranged from amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups to creating inclusive policies that ensured equity across the board. The action plan was not only comprehensive but also scalable, allowing the organisation to adapt as they continue on their DEI journey.
Outcome:
This project marked a significant milestone for Viridian DEI Consulting, as it was our first collaboration with a membership organisation in New Zealand. The organisation now has a strategic foundation to build a more inclusive community, backed by a data-driven approach that genuinely reflects the needs and perspectives of their members. By focusing on the voices of those who needed it most, we helped the organisation take its first major step towards creating an equitable and thriving environment for all its members.
Conclusion:
This case study exemplifies the power of taking a values-driven, strategic approach to DEI. By assessing the needs of the membership, amplifying voices and providing a roadmap for change, we empowered this organisation to foster inclusion and equity.
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