Research, Proactivity

Designing to promote parity in the tech industry

Promoting gender parity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields through the use of blockchains and associated technologies.

1 year project, 2021-2022

My role and process

As a designer on this project, I am following the Double Diamond design process to ensure that I am exploring and refining my ideas in a systematic and iterative manner. Specifically, I have been responsible for conducting user research and analysis in the "Discover" phase, and in February I will be in the process of developing wireframes and prototypes in the "Define" phase. My role also includes testing and iterating on design solutions in order to ensure that the final product is user-friendly, intuitive, and effective. Throughout the project, I have worked helped by teachers to identify and understand the needs of the target users and align the design solutions with requirements.

Research

The tech industry has long struggled with gender inequality, with women and other underrepresented groups facing significant barriers to representation, pay equity, and advancement. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for greater diversity and inclusion in tech, but progress has been slow.

I conducted research on the current state of gender equity in tech, including reviewing data on representation and pay, and speaking with experts and individuals working in the industry. My research revealed a number of persistent challenges, including:

  • Lack of representation: Women and other underrepresented groups are significantly underrepresented in tech, particularly in leadership positions.
  • Pay disparities: Women and other underrepresented groups are often paid less than their male counterparts, even when controlling for factors like education and experience.
  • Bias and discrimination: Women and other underrepresented groups often face discrimination and bias in tech, both in the hiring process and in their day-to-day work.

Opportunity

A more diverse and inclusive tech industry would be better able to address a wider range of needs and perspectives, and would be more innovative and competitive.
A more diverse and inclusive tech industry would be better able to address a wider range of needs and perspectives, and would be more innovative and competitive.

Possible working axes

  • Track and report on progress towards gender equity goals: By using blockchain to track and report on diversity and inclusion metrics, tech companies and organizations can gain a better understanding of their progress towards gender equity goals and identify areas for improvement.
  • Ensure fair and equitable pay and compensation: Blockchain can facilitate the tracking and reporting of pay and other forms of compensation, helping to ensure that women and other underrepresented groups are being fairly compensated.
  • Empower women and other underrepresented groups through decentralized networks and platforms: By leveraging blockchain to create decentralized networks and platforms, tech companies and organizations can provide women and other underrepresented groups with greater access to opportunities and resources, helping to level the playing field and increase representation.
  • Encourage the adoption and implementation of blockchain technology: To fully realize the potential of blockchain to promote gender equity in tech, it is important for companies and organizations to adopt and implement these technologies. This can be achieved through education and training programs, as well as through the creation of incentives and rewards for companies and organizations that are making progress towards gender equity goals.
  • Foster a culture of diversity and inclusion: In addition to implementing specific interventions, it is also important for tech companies and organizations to foster a culture of diversity and inclusion. This can be achieved through the implementation of policies and practices that support and promote diversity and inclusion, as well as through ongoing training and education.

Conclusion

Promoting gender equity in the tech industry is a complex and multifaceted challenge, but it is one that is worth addressing. By leveraging blockchain technology and implementing effective strategies and interventions, tech companies and organizations can make significant progress towards achieving greater diversity and inclusion. This will not only benefit women and other underrepresented groups, but will also benefit the tech industry as a whole, helping to unlock its full potential and drive innovation and competitiveness.

I wrote an article on this topic, which can be found on Medium. This article provides more in-depth information about my research.