More satisfaction with cultural diversity

Research into the influence of cultural diversity on development organizations

March 24, 2011  -  Organizations dealing with cultural diversity in a constructive way, enhance the job satisfaction and innovative behaviour of its employees. This is one of the main conclusions of the research report of Monique the Ritter, titled Diversity Management in Development Cooperation Organizations (February 2011). Her research was facilitated by PSO. Cordaid, Oxfam Novib, VSO Nederland, Hivos, PSO, Oxfam Novib, Cordaid and Amref Flying Doctors participated in the research.

The research of de Ritter shows that the way in which organizations (in the development sector) deal with diversity has an impact on actual organizational outcomes, such as creativity and innovation, employee satisfaction and identification.

For example, if there is openness and appreciation of differences, diversity may enhance creativity and innovation in the organization. In order to achieve this, it is recommended to both invest in the minority as well as in the majority group.

The researcher concludes that there is still a lot to win when diversity is managed in such a way that it suits the vision of the organization.

Read the report on Diversity Management in Development Cooperation Organizations (February 2011)