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As IBIS reviews an organization’s existing systems, policies, procedures and programs, with a particular focus on governance structures, developing Business Resource Groups and Diversity Councils are examples of additional services we provide.
Business Resource Groups
IBIS works with clients to form and launch vital, value-added, and transformative Business Resource Groups. Now recognized as integral to providing decision-makers with multi-directional channels for marketplace and workplace information, BRG’s—typically organized by demographic descriptors (e.g., Women’s groups, LGBTQ groups, etc.) —have supplanted what were formerly affinity groups and Employee Resource Groups (ERG). BRG’s and their members are:
- idea-generators for innovative market-driven products and services;
- advisors regarding workplace needs;
- career development vehicles for members;
- opportunities for across-demographic awareness and inclusion; and
- ambassadors to informal networks throughout the organization.
In addition to providing consultation on the creation and launch of the BRG’s, IBIS also consults on the messaging and communication strategy.
Diversity Councils
Successful Diversity Councils are powerful resources for transforming organizational culture and sustaining real D&I change. IBIS has a well-honed process for working with clients to build Diversity Councils, which, at their best, are comprised of a representative cross-section from all levels, areas, and geographies within the organization. Establishment of a Council includes developing a Charter which delineates how members are selected, length of tenure, scope of responsibilities, frequency of meeting, leadership, executive sponsorship, and other issues.
A Diversity Council serves multiple functions, it:
- is the voice of the client organization, representing different vantage points and viewpoints from throughout the organization to ensure that processes and decisions can be executed effectively;
- provides vital information to consulting teams about the organization’s structure, processes, and norms;
- is a sounding board for ideas from the Executive Team and other key stakeholders;
- helps disseminate information through both formal and informal channels, thereby increasing buy-in about the benefits of workplace diversity, and raising the probabilities of success;
- helps funnel information, ideas, and concerns upwards to major decision-makers.
