February 5, 2024

Navigating The Cutting-Edge Strategies Shaping DEIAB In Corporate America

As we venture into the future of DEIAB in corporate America, this isn't just a read; it's a call to action. Join.

Written by Jessica Jones

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate America, a seismic shift is shaking up our workplace cultures. No longer are we talking about your standard Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) playbook—no, we’re delving deep into a future where Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging (DEIAB) take center stage. The transformative shift of DEIAB spotlights neurodiversity, futuristic tech, and intersectional leadership, to shape the inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.

Neurodiversity: Unlocking Innovation Powerhouses

Believe it or not, companies are rewriting the rulebook, realizing the untapped brilliance in neurodivergent minds. Autism, ADHD, dyslexia—these aren’t limitations; they’re unique talents. The brains at Mastercard get it. Kim Martin, their Executive VP of Business Operations and Automation, talks candidly in Forbes, praising neurodiverse candidates for bringing fresh perspectives to problem-solving.

Neuroinclusion Leaders of the Pack: SAP and IBM

As the industry shifts, SAP is focused on creating a workplace that’s not just diverse but neurodiverse. SAP’s Autism at Work Program, launched in 2022, stands as a leader for inclusive hiring, offering tailored onboarding and mentorship. Meanwhile, IBM wants to go beyond just focusing on autism to celebrate all neurological differences, such as ADHD, dyslexia, bipolar, and more—their Neurodiversity at IBM program embraces it all, setting the stage for a workplace where diversity isn’t just a word; it’s a way of life.

Technology Innovations: Revolutionizing Accessibility and Busting Bias Daily

In the digital realm, creating an inclusive culture means staying ahead of the game. Enter accessible design, the backbone of user-friendly digital experiences. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the compass, steering designs to be responsive and flexible. But it doesn’t stop there—cutting-edge tech takes the stage. AI-Powered Bias Detection and virtual reality in DEIAB training bring a dynamic twist, reshaping how companies tackle bias head-on. The innovative use of virtual reality for DEIAB training creates realistic and immersive scenarios, while building empathy and understanding of the experiences of those in marginalized groups.

Industry Titans Leading the Charge: Equal Reality, KPMG, and Walmart

Meet the trailblazers. In 2017, Equal Reality launched the first interactive diversity, equity, and inclusion training in a virtual reality to paint a vivid picture of diverse perspectives. Walmart? They’ve also been riding the virtual reality wave since 2017, offering ‘Walmart Academies’ for a one-of-a-kind employee training experience. KPMG? They’re not just eyeing the future; they’re creating it with a $30 million metaverse collaboration hub, revolutionizing training, collaboration, and education.

Intersectionality in Leadership: Shaping Tomorrow’s Titans

Last but most certainly not least, we’re talking intersectionality. Inclusive leaders who get it aren’t just checking boxes; they’re recognizing and embracing the complex layers of race, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomics to foster environments where all voices are heard. Showcasing intersectionality in leadership sets the stage for the next generation, where authenticity isn’t a luxury—it’s the norm. This isn’t just about creating equitable spaces; it’s a blueprint for a workplace where innovation thrives.

As we venture into the future of DEIAB in corporate America, this isn’t just a read; it’s a call to action. Join us on this journey, where innovation, diversity, and belonging aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the keys to individual and collective workplace success.

Jessica Jones is CEO and Co-Founder of The CODE Group