10 Actionable Ways to Actually Increase Diversity in Tech

[Commentary] Here are some researched-backed methods to make real progress in your diversity efforts:

1) We will keep the focus on changing company culture and avoiding focusing only or primarily on the "pipeline"
2) We will demonstrate top leadership support and accountability
3) We will involve "majority-group" members in change efforts
4) We will ensure an ongoing commitment to reporting and tracking the data
5) We will expand the kinds of data we collect
6) We will help managers learn to reduce unconscious biases
7) We will analyze job descriptions, recruitment strategies, and interview practices for hidden biases
8) We will consciously develop and sponsor highly qualified underrepresented talent
9) We will ensure productive team environments where all members can contribute to innovation and problem solving
10) We will implement flexible work-life policies and make it okay to actually use these policies without overt or subtle repercussions

[Catherine Ashcraft is a Senior Research Scientist at the National Center for Women & Information Technology]