Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Innovation
The consideration of EDI in innovation is important, both to increase commercialisation opportunities and to ensure real world problems are being addressed. By considering EDI, biases can be challenged, barriers can be broken down and innovation can be driven through the inclusion of diverse perspectives (e.g., within research teams – More information on research teams can be found here – ‘EDI considerations in Research Teams’ for more information).
EDI drives innovation in a range of ways. Some examples of this are here with links to further detailed consideration included.
- Epidemiology – There is a risk of overlooking important findings specific to different populations (e.g., approaches to data interpretation and consideration of protected characteristics within the data). More information on equality within data collection process can be found here – ‘EDI Considerations in Data Collection Process’.
- Lived/Living Experiences – By excluding diverse perspectives from those with lived/living experiences, innovation risks not meeting the needs of under-served and under-represented communities. More information on co-designing research and Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) can be found here – ‘Co-Designing Research Projects’.
- Inequality in Unmet Clinical Needs – Studies are often powered to address male/female but are frequently underpowered for other, minority demographics. The benefits and side effects of treatments might not be beneficial to all diverse groups of participants, and this may not be known if they have not been included in the testing. More information about the recruitment of diverse groups can be found here – ‘EDI Considerations in Participant Recruitment’.
- Clinical Trials and Product Development – It is commonly assumed that all people have equal access to a clinical trial/pilot, but recruitment is very often financially and temporally constrained leading to ‘low hanging fruit’ style recruitment. This results in under-served and under-represented communities being excluded. Thus, the trials findings will not necessarily be deliverable or applicable to all groups in society.
- Diverse Pools of Talent – Fair treatment and an inclusive work environment ensures wider pool of talent is interested in working within your institutions. More information about the recruitment of diverse groups can be found here – ‘Research Culture’.
- Commercialisation of Innovation – Resulting products or services, may be more impactful, useful and appealing to wider society.
Research and Innovation Practices and Culture
In a video from the UK Catalysis Hub, Dr Racheal Cowen (Academic Lead of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Manchester) shares her perspectives on current UK research and innovation practices and culture. She highlights the need to embrace diversity within the research teams and makes recommendations so that we can all play our part in developing an inclusive culture where everyone’s ideas can thrive, and we can address diverse problems and find solutions that meet the needs of everyone in society.