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On this episode of Beyond the Pledge, Jai Tedeschi, R/GA’s vp, global executive director, culture & operation, sat down with Marla Kaplowitz, CEO of the 4A’s, and Sean Lyons global CEO of R/GA to discuss the importance of data transparency when it comes to creating a path toward an anti-racist society.
The 4A’s have come out with a survey collecting diversity data across 165 agencies to improve the industry and foster conversations. In doing so, they have found there is no standard for capturing EDI data from one company to the next. Even further, the EEOC has limited definitions of workforce data collection. Both Lyons and Kaplowitz flagged the need for a methodology to capture EDI data across industries and companies of all sizes to better understand diversity figures.
Data can drive change
Lyons and Kaplowitz urge companies not to feel shame when they share their data, advising that doing so is a first step to ensuring a commitment to genuine change. Lyons sees data as a point of inspiration, and more importantly, believes data can drive change because it connects to the bottom line and holds a company accountable. “Companies report financial quarterly.. Why wouldn’t they do this quarterly? That allows you to plan and focus and not think that is some extraordinary moment where you have to do this,” Lyons explained.
Hear Tedeschi, Lyons, and Kaplowitz discuss how data transparency is a critical key in unlocking the equity, diversity, and inclusion challenges all businesses face.
Stream the new episode below, listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or find it on Spotify.
