TEKsystems’ 2024 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in IT Report Explores the Value of DEI Initiatives Amid Ongoing Challenges in Communication and Execution

The report showcases progress in DEI policies while revealing disconnect between decision-makers and employee priorities.

HANOVER, Md. (Feb. 6, 2024) – TEKsystems, a global provider of technology, business and talent solutions for more than 80% of the Fortune 500, released today their 2024 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in IT report. The report delves into the varied perspectives of HR leaders, IT leaders and IT employees regarding DEI programs and their impact, highlighting positive advancements and underscoring ongoing challenges.

Over the past several years, companies have continued to invest in DEI strategies. The 2024 report found that 57% of enterprise decision-makers characterize their DEI policies as advanced or mature, a 46% increase from 2023.

“We’re seeing companies increasingly recognize that a diverse workforce is a critical factor in fueling innovation with creativity and problem-solving,” said Faith Rottmann Johnson, vice president of human resources, talent acquisition and corporate social responsibility at TEKsystems. “Leaders are putting more intentional time and resources behind their policies, and that impact is being felt companywide. For example, more women are reporting that DEI programs have positively impacted their career development and opportunities for job growth.”

Overall, the report found that the vast majority of people agree DEI has made their company a better place to work and a place that is better equipped for recruiting and retaining diverse talent. In fact, 68% of enterprise decision-makers expect to increase their DEI spending and DEI hiring in 2024.

However, the report also highlights important disconnects between what IT leaders, HR leaders and IT employees perceive to be a priority in DEI policies. Some examples include the following:

• Nearly half of organizations’ senior-most DEI leaders are C-level or executive-level management. Meanwhile, 1 in 4 IT employees do not know the level of their senior-most DEI officer.
• IT decision-makers are more likely to say DEI is critical for an inclusive IT workplace (89%) versus only 61% of employees who agree.
• Twenty-five percent of employees say parental leave is the most valued DEI policy, which is the second-highest percentage. In comparison, only 14% of decision-makers think parental leave is the most effective for creating an effective DEI policy.
• HR leaders put the most value on recruitment and retention, while IT leaders and employees focus more on training and development.

“It’s encouraging to see commendable strides being made around DEI in IT,” said Franklin Reed, executive director of global inclusion, diversity and equity at TEKsystems. “However, DEI is not a ‘check the box complete’ initiative. The journey to sustainable diversity and equity is ongoing and requires a thoughtful and intentional approach. Organizations will need more than just senior leaders to buy in. There must be open and transparent dialogue among all stakeholders, including IT employees, to overcome these challenges and cultivate a mindset that can impact true change.”

For the full 2024 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in IT report with additional findings on current workplace satisfaction and DEI priorities, as well as expert recommendations and strategies for improving DEI policies, visit the TEKsystems website.

For media inquiries, contact Kara Moran.

About the 2024 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in IT Report

This U.S.- and Canada-based study, conducted by TEKsystems and YouGov, analyzes survey data related to diversity, equity and inclusion in IT. The survey, fielded in November 2023, includes perspectives from 820 IT and HR professionals. Respondents include IT and HR decision-makers and IT employees. The report explores the social-related DEI challenges and perspectives and their impact on the workplace.

About TEKsystems and TEKsystems Global Services

We’re TEKsystems. We accelerate business transformation for our customers. We bring real-world expertise to solve complex technology, business and talent challenges—across the globe. We’re a team of 80,000 strong, working with over 6,000 customers, including 80% of the Fortune 500 across North America, Europe and Asia, who partner with us for our scale, full-stack capabilities and speed. We’re strategic thinkers, hands-on collaborators, helping customers capitalize on change. We’re building tomorrow by delivering business outcomes and driving positive impacts in our global communities. TEKsystems is an Allegis Group company. Learn more at TEKsystems.com.