Definitions of Diversity

In any discussion of diversity, it is important to distinguish between having diversity and being effective at managing diversity

Dr. Thomas revolutionized the field of diversity by creating these definitions, now accepted as a standard by practitioners world-wide:

Diversity is any collective mixture characterized by differences, similarities, and related tensions and complexities.

Managing Diversity is the process of creating and maintaining an environment that naturally enables all participants to contribute to their full potential in focused pursuit of organizational objectives.

Strategic Diversity Management is the craft of making quality decisions in the
midst of diversity. Like any craft, it is honed through:

  • Key Concepts
  • Guiding Principles
  • A Development Process
  • Application Tools
  • Continuous Practice
  • Gaining Mastery
  • Judgment

Based on these definitions, our Strategic Diversity Management Process™ provides the cornerstone of our consulting process.