Bringing polycultural organizations to life: A network analytic strategy

Abstract

Introduction The emerging polyculturism perspective seeks to address inclusion shortcomings by emphasizing the interconnectedness of the workforce. With repeated interactions greater trust is engendered, promoting pro-social behaviors that benefit the entire organization (Pentland, 2012). This is consistent with social network practices where informational advantage is gained by tapping into under-connected pockets of the organization, allowing for increased flow of knowledge and mutual influence. As such, inclusion efforts may be amplified by striving to gain greater connectivity between employees of various backgrounds and through repeated interactions of disconnected groups. The goal is to break down barriers, increase awareness and cooperation, reduce perceived group differences, and create a more inclusive culture. This is how social network analysis, a data-driven approach to understanding the relationships between individuals and groups within organizations, measuring the flow of resources, information, and influence (Borgatti et al., 2018), can support polyculturism in increasing inclusion in a measurable way.