The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce (GPCC) released the results of a diversity survey which found that 85 percent of local organizations have specific measureable objectives related to diversity and inclusion. The survey results were released yesterday at the Chamber’s quarterly Diversity and Inclusion Network meeting.
Last spring, GPCC teamed with Accenture to execute the Designed for Impact survey and more than 40 organizations participated. The results offer insight on the impact Greater Philadelphia businesses are making through diversity management practices. The report, created for executives driving diversity initiatives in their organizations, also serves as the focal point of the Chamber’s 2011-2012 Diversity and Inclusion Network Series.
The survey is the first of its kind conducted in the Greater Philadelphia region. It focused on organizational accountability and metrics, and identified best practices and opportunities to improve the dialogue of diversity and inclusion. Best practices identified by the survey include:
• Identifying a senior-level leader as a visible champion for diversity, who is both active and accountable;
• Creating a diversity and inclusion vision and strategy that is owned by the business, not just the Human Resources department;
• Incorporating the diversity and inclusion agenda into the overall business strategy; and
• Setting, tracking, and measuring clear diversity objectives that directly align to the organization’s strategy.
“The objective of the survey was not to directly compare companies, but to identify how firms approach diversity and inclusion management to measure their own definition of success against their objectives,” said Rob Wonderling, President and CEO, GPCC. “We believe that creating a truly inclusive environment that engages individuals reflective of our society strengthens our organizations and is the key to the success of Greater Philadelphia.”
Nolan Atkinson, Chief Diversity Officer at Duane Morris LLP, who also serves as the Chamber’s Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Network said, “The results of the survey demonstrate the business community’s commitment to diversity. The Chamber’s effort to raise awareness about the need for organizations to create and implement a diversity and inclusion plan, and the benefits for doing so, is to be commended.”
GPCC Diversity Statement
The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, in both its values and practices, is committed to inclusion and excellence in the management of all diverse people irrespective of differences. This means that there shall be no barriers to participation in any activity of this Chamber on the basis of economic position, gender, race, creed, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
We recognize that diverse perspectives are important and necessary for responsible and representative decision-making. We believe inclusiveness is a fundamental principle of every organization that enhances its ability to respond more effectively to changing demographics and needs.
We affirm our commitment to reflecting the diversity of the Greater Philadelphia Region and the Members of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce.
The full report can be viewed here.
