In the world of streaming entertainment, there is a growing spotlight on how well media giants are doing in terms of diversity and inclusion. Many streaming services are now taking proactive and thoughtful steps in promoting inclusion, while also celebrating diversity in their programming and initiatives. From thoughtful casting practices to special programs for marginalized communities, impressionable steps are being taken across the streaming landscape. In this article, we take a look at how streaming giants are making strides in championing diversity and inclusion, and the impact these efforts are having on the industry and beyond.
1. Uncovering the Streaming Giants‘ Diversity Picture
- Understanding the Measurement System
Streaming giant companies are held to increasingly high standards when it comes to diversity in their workplaces. To understand the scope of progress made, it’s important to analyze the measurement systems behind the data. With “diversity reports” emerging from the leading streaming companies, access to information has improved, though there is still some ambiguity concerning the criteria each company uses to evaluate diversity. For example, while most companies measure gender diversity, there is a dearth of information on other categories like racial diversity, disability diversity, etc.
- The Gender Pay Gap Dilemma
Though companies have begun to measure diversity in a more comprehensive manner, the gender pay gap persists as an issue that remains largely obscured. This is due to the lack of enforcement around companies being required to report their findings, leaving the door open to manipulation of results. Additionally, certain platforms might have higher concentrations of male workers than female workers, leading to skewed data. To obtain a clear understanding of the gap, more stringent enforcement around diversity reporting is necessary.
2. Examining the Impact of Inclusion Initiatives
Inclusion initiatives are designed to create equitable opportunities for everyone in an organization. Examining the positive impact of such initiatives is essential for informing future initiatives. One way to measure the impact of inclusion initiatives is to review whether the initiatives have succeeded in cultivating a diverse and equitable workplace.
To assess the impact of inclusion initiatives, it can be helpful to look at diversity across all levels of the organization, from entry-level positions to managerial roles. This can be done through metrics such as the percentage of jobs held by people from different backgrounds and the number of women, or people of color, in management roles. We can also get a glimpse into the level of productivity and creativity of diverse teams within an organization, as well as determine if they are being offered equal opportunities for advancement and mentorship.
- Evaluate the diversity and inclusion picture – Understand the composition of the workforce, including both formal and informal roles.
- Track employee engagement – Measure the level of belonging and connection employees feel in the workplace.
- Measure the benefits of inclusion – Gauge the benefits organizations realize from inclusive cultures, such as stronger engagement, higher customer satisfaction, and improved retention.
An organization’s Employment Equity Report can also be used to review the types of policies, practices, and benefits that are in line with work towards diversity, equity, and inclusion. Close examination of these metrics can help inform future initiatives for creating an inclusive work environment.
3. Assessing the Benefits of Diversity & Inclusion Efforts
As the world leans into the importance and value of diverse teams, organizations are turning to diversity & inclusion initiatives to ensure that we are leveraging the benefits of an environment that is more inclusive, equitable, and representative. There are numerous advantages to be gained from taking a benefit-based view of diversity & inclusion efforts, ones that can propel organizations forward into more equitable, productive, and profitable spheres.
1. Improved Performance: A diverse team can work together to tackle challenging business problems and bring unique perspectives that can improve the team’s work product. Creating a space that embraces a variety of distinct backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking opens the door for out of the box solutions to be identified, increasing the likelihood that the best outcomes will be found.
- Creates a comprehensive working space conducive to success
- Leads to more well-rounded decision making and problem solving
- Innovation is encouraged and maximized
2. Broader Reach & Brand Reputation: Customers are increasingly drawn to companies that value the underlying principles of diversity & inclusion. A diverse and inclusive workplace signals that your company not only values individual ideas and opinions but also that you are safe and accessible to persons of all backgrounds. Additionally, global companies can benefit from a culturally diverse workforce, allowing them to reach broader, more global markets.
- Positively impacts the external perception of the brand
- Leads to improved resource utilization and competitive advantage
- Acknowledges and respects the value inherent in every employee
4. Strategies for Ensuring Continued Progress in the Future
Re-evaluate Goals Frequently
It is important to continuously evaluate goals and progress throughout a process. By doing this, any areas of difficulty or sluggish progress can be identified and dealt with immediately so that the overall progress of the project is not hampered. Making small adjustments to plans as needed along the way can also ensure that the project is more likely to get back on track as quickly as possible.
Set Clear Deadlines and Milestones
Setting clear deadlines and milestones help to ensure that team members remain focused and motivated to reach their goals. This is especially important for long-term projects, as without a clear timeline and timeline goals, it can be tempting for team members to take their foot off the pedal and become stagnant in their progress. Setting deadlines and milestones helps keep the project on track and ensure progress is maintained. At a time when diversity and inclusion are more important than ever, streaming giants have made great strides in taking their own initiatives to prioritize and promote these values. With audiences all over the world, streaming companies are creating a more just and equitable future by deepening representation and amplifying untold stories in a truly powerful and inspiring way. As streaming services continue to evolve, so will the role they can and will play in furthering the cause of diversity and inclusion.