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Diversity: Impacts on the Four Functions of Management
Often when we hear the word diversity the first thing that comes to mind is ethnic
diversity. There are actually many kinds of diversity; racial, ethnic, cultural, and religious
diversity are those most readily apparent. But let us not forget the diversity of skills,
talents, experiences, age, and gender. There is even geographic diversity; the list goes on
and on. All these types of diversity impact our daily lives and the organizations we belong
to. Diversity even plays a part in each of the four functions of management.
Planning
When planning, management must have the foresight to consider issues of diversity. Dell
Incorporated even incorporates diversity into their planning for supplier selections. They
realize that they need to reflect the diversity of their customers in every aspect of their
business. Women and minority suppliers, as well as many others, have the potential of
becoming Dells suppliers, but in order to compete they must continue to innovate and
improve quality to gain advantage over the other potential suppliers. By including diversity
in their planning, Dell drives innovation and competition amongst its suppliers which
ultimately means better products at better prices.
Organizing
It is important to include diversity when developing the organization and structure of the
company. Dell commitment to diversity comes from the top down, starting with the Board
of Directors. Their website states: The Board should be compromised of a diverse group of
individuals (Dell, 2006). Their Board members must be diverse in experiences,
