Lunar International College

School of Graduate Studies

DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT

MBA Program
Workforce diversity management practice and Challenges

April, 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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1.Introduction
1.1. Background:

Workforce diversity management has become a critical topic in today's globalized and multicultural
business environment. With workplaces becoming increasingly diverse in terms of age, gender, race,
ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and abilities, organizations are facing both opportunities and
challenges in managing this diversity effectively. Understanding the challenges associated with workforce
diversity management is crucial for organizations to create inclusive and equitable work environments
and leverage the benefits of diversity.

1.2. Objectives:

The primary objective of this research is to explore the challenges faced by organizations in
managing workforce diversity. Specific objectives include:

▪ Identifying the types and dimensions of workforce diversity dominant in contemporary

organizations.

▪ Examining the impact of workforce diversity on organizational performance, employee

satisfaction, and innovation.

▪ Analyzing the strategies and practices employed by organizations to manage diversity

effectively.

▪ Investigating the barriers and challenges hindering successful diversity management

initiatives.

▪ Providing recommendations and best practices for overcoming diversity management

challenges and fostering inclusivity in the workplace.

1.3. Research Methodology:

The research will adopt a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative
techniques to gain comprehensive understandings into workforce diversity management and its
challenges. The methods include:

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▪ Survey Questionnaires: Administering surveys to employees and HR professionals to

gather quantitative data on diversity perceptions, organizational practices, and challenges
faced.

▪ Interviews and Focus Groups: Conducting semi-structured interviews and focus group
discussions with key stakeholders to obtain qualitative insights, experiences, and
perspectives related to diversity management.

▪ Literature Review: Reviewing existing literature, scholarly articles, case studies, and
reports on workforce diversity, management strategies, and challenges to inform the
research findings.

1.4. Expected Outcomes:

The research aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on workforce diversity
management by:

▪ Identifying common challenges faced by organizations.

▪ Highlighting effective diversity management practices and strategies that promote

inclusivity and equity.

▪ Offering practical recommendations and guidelines for organizations to address diversity

challenges and create a more inclusive workplace culture.

▪ Enhancing awareness and understanding of the benefits of diversity for organizational

success and innovation.

1.5. Implications and Recommendations:

The findings of this research will have implications for HR practitioners, organizational leaders,
policymakers, and researchers interested in diversity management. Recommendations based on
the research outcomes will focus on:

▪ Implementing inclusive policies and practices that embrace diversity at all levels of the
organization.

▪ Providing diversity training and awareness programs to enhance cultural competence and
mitigate biases.

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▪ Encouraging open communication, respect, and collaboration among diverse teams to

leverage their collective strengths.

▪ Monitoring and evaluating diversity initiatives regularly to ensure continuous improvement

and positive impact on organizational outcomes.

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