ORGANISATIONAL DIVERSITY CASE STUDY $(30$ MARKS$)$ Read the extract below and answer all the questions that follow:

Introduction Diversity in the workplace is a topic that has been gaining significant attention in recent years. It refers to the inclusion of individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, races, ethnicities, genders, ages, and more. Having a diverse workforce offers numerous benefits to organizations, and it is essential to explore these advantages in detail. In this case, we will focus on a monolithic organization and highlight why it needs to embrace diversity and the benefits it will gain from doing so$.$

Benefits of a Diverse Workforce Innovation and Creativity: A diverse workforce brings together individuals with different perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking. This diversity of thought stimulates creativity and innovation, leading to better problem$-$solving and decision$-$making processes. Increased Adaptability and Resilience: A diverse workforce is better equipped to adapt to changing market conditions and challenges. The different perspectives and experiences of employees from various backgrounds allow for more comprehensive problem$-$solving and decision$-$making. Better Customer Understanding: A diverse workforce can provide organizations with a better understanding of a broader customer base. Employees from different cultural backgrounds can offer insights into various markets and customer preferences, enabling the organization to cater to a wider range of customers effectively. Improved Employee Engagement and Retention: A diverse workforce promotes a sense of inclusion and acceptance, leading to higher employee engagement and retention. Employees feel valued and respected when they see their differences acknowledged and celebrated within the organization.

Barriers and Challenges Lack of Representation and Inclusion: One of the significant barriers to creating a diverse workforce is the lack of representation and inclusion at all levels of the organization. Without visible efforts to promote diversity, certain groups may feel excluded, leading to lower engagement and retention. Communication and Language Barriers: In a diverse workforce, individuals from different cultural backgrounds may have varying communication styles and proficiency in the primary language used in the organization. This can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and decreased productivity. Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness: Organizations must be aware of cultural sensitivities and practices to ensure they do not inadvertently offend or disrespect employees from different backgrounds. This requires training and awareness campaigns to promote cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. Conflict and Differences in Opinion: Diverse workforces can lead to conflicts due to differences in opinions, values, and experiences. Managers need to foster an environment that encourages open dialogue, active listening, and respect for different viewpoints to prevent conflicts from escalating. Example: In a software development company with a diverse workforce, developers from different cultural backgrounds may have different approaches to problem$-$solving and communication styles. This can lead to delays in project deadlines and decreased productivity if not managed effectively. Final answer: Conclusion In conclusion, embracing diversity in the workplace offers numerous benefits to organizations, including innovation, creativity, adaptability, better customer understanding, and improved employee engagement and retention. However, barriers such as lack of representation, communication challenges, cultural sensitivity$,$ and conflicts must be addressed to fully leverage the potential of a diverse workforce. By recognizing and celebrating differences, organizations can create an inclusive environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and success.

Question $1(15$ Marks$)$

Assume that you are currently working in a monolithic organisation. Drawing from the extract and from your knowledge of diversity, strongly argue why is it necessary for your organisation to have a diverse workforce and highlight the benefits it will gain from this.

Question $2(15$ Marks$)$

Diversity in the workplace means employing people of different ages, genders, ethnicities, sexual orientations, cultural backgrounds, and education levels. You work in an organisation that has a diverse workforce in terms of gender, culture, race, ethnicity, age, religion, and educational level. Elaborate on the barriers and challenges that may arise with having such a diverse workforce and provide relevant original example$($s$)$ for each.