Orchestrating DEI
There are different types of musical groups, each of which is unique. A string quartet is different from an ensemble which is much different from a large orchestra. An orchestra is composed of different sections, the four main ones being strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion. Just as different teams make different contributions to an organization, these different sections make different contributions to the orchestra.
At center stage is diversity. Each orchestra section brings different types of instruments. The instruments within each of those sections are distinct, yet similar. String sections, for example, include violins, violas, cellos and double basses. Among the woodwinds you’ll find flutes, oboes, clarinets and bassoons. This is all to produce a diversity of sound that when brought together creates the harmony. Diversity is each member bringing their own unique instrument to make the music work. The same is true in organizations—every team member fills a different role that requires different skills and often different tools to make the organization work.
Starting at the section level of the orchestra, there is acceptance—the understanding and respect that members play various types of similar instruments. The same should be true in organizations—accepting every team member for the unique skills and experiences they bring.
Equity versus equality. Every musical piece varies. Most use a wide variety of instruments throughout. That does not mean, however, that every section gets an equal amount of time to play. In some musical pieces, a string section may dominate, complimented by certain woodwinds to capture the mellow mood intended by the composer. A different musical piece with a livelier mood may make more use of brass and percussion instruments. That’s equity—giving each musical piece what they need to accomplish the composer’s intent. The same should be true in organizations—giving each team and team member what they need to accomplish the organization’s goals.
Is any single section or any specific set of instruments more important than the other? Percussions could argue they are since they are the loudest while strings could claim they are since they are the softest. Saxophones could argue they are the coolest making them more important. The reality is that all instruments make a necessary contribution, bringing us to belonging—the understanding that everyone plays what they want and are good at without judgment. The same should be true in organizations—allowing people to perform in the area in which they excel without criticism.
The climax is inclusion. Some symphony aficionados sit through a performance with their eyes closed so they can focus on hearing. As the orchestra leads up to the crescendo, the startling crash of the cymbals or ring of a gong can come making a musical statement. What if this instrument was excluded? Would the performance have had the same dramatic effect? Inclusion is inviting others in to bring different sounds, ideas, and richer performances. The same should be true in organizations—inviting in people with new and fresh ideas that will flourish into robust solutions for the organization.
When organizations don’t honor uniqueness, nor give their employees what they need to succeed, they cannot create a workforce that is engaged, nor a culture that is positive. Worse, when they exclude people, from the organization, from a team, or from contributing, discrimination may result. Then they have to face the music, which may not be harmonious.