Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion can be catalysts for your organization’s innovation and economic prosperity and having employees feel like they are valued members in the workplace. This session will show how PeopleSoft HCM can assist your organization in the area of capturing employee and applicant diversity information. You will see a demo of the gender identity feature and preferred names along with other key diversity features like identification for disability, veteran status and ethnicity.

Women aspiring for leadership growth will hear how to set themselves apart and grow their careers within any industry leveling Lean. Join Mona Abou-Sayed, a senior executive and Lean expert, as she shares successes , challenges and lessons learned within the male-dominated technology field.

What does it look like to be intentional about inclusion? In the case of 5Q, a technology and cyber security services company, explosive growth in a short period of time led to its founders being surrounded by a small group with common interests. As a result, the company and its leadership unintentionally lacked diversity which led to some workplace culture challenges and missed opportunities. With a concerted effort, 5Q formed a unique team of diverse, talented members which has been a main driver of the company’s success and continued growth. In this interactive session, attendees will hear about real outcomes and the steps taken to integrate diversity into the 5Q organization.

Over the past several years, organizations prioritized two strategies underpinning the employee experience: adjusting to remote work and creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. As workplaces increasingly move to a hybrid environment, designing them to meet the needs of everyone—including neurodiverse talent—is key. How should we reimagine ways of working from an accessibility standpoint by designing intentional workspaces that encourage productivity and inclusion.

The ability for an employee to identify and express themselves is a basic expectation, especially when it comes to a social construct like gender. To on-board and retain an inclusive and diverse group of employees, there is a pressing need to add nonbinary gender option for employees in Self Service since it fosters a positive, welcoming and supportive environment. PeopleSoft HCM team delivered Gender Identity and Expression options with PUM Image 41. This presentation is a discussion of these features and our implementation experiences. We will talk about what there is to know and consider, how to analyze impacts to existing policies and procedures and finally implementing a solution to meet the needs for your organization that supports employee diversity and inclusion strategy.

Over the past two years, organizations have ventured into unprecedented ways of working and supporting their employees. Business models and employee expectations have both shifted dramatically, and the effects of those changes will continue to be seen long after we settle into the “next normal.”

In this session, Info-Tech Research Group’s Rob Meikle will share what business and IT leaders must do to build and keep successful teams in today’s environment

In an increasingly interconnected world, we have a shared responsibility to ensure technology is a force that works to benefit everyone—countering structural sources of inequity, where needed. As a result, enhancing diversity and inclusion (D&I) in every aspect of technology is essential, and everyone should be part of the conversation. We cover unconscious bias, privilege, equity, allyship, covering, and microaggressions. Come jump-start your personal D&I journey as we explain the basics in simple terms with examples relevant for technologists.

Unconscious bias, also known as implicit bias, is an assumption, belief or attitude that we aren’t necessarily aware of. Everyone has these biases and uses them as mental shortcuts for faster information-processing. While bias is a normal part of brain function, it can often reinforce stereotypes.

Join the Quest DEI Committee in this discussion aimed at combating unconscious bias, identifying different types of biases, how they might surface at work, and how to avoid them so you can build a more inclusive and diverse workplace.

In a rapidly evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), it is crucial for organizations to adapt and embrace these principles to drive success. Recent developments, including Supreme Court rulings, have brought attention to the role of affirmative action in recruitment and talent management. This session aims to provide a strategic perspective on how DEI efforts can positively impact your PeopleSoft systems and the broader organization. In this educational session, we will explore how DEI initiatives should be seen as an essential part of your talent acquisition, development, and retention strategy, allowing you to tap into the broadest and deepest talent pool to support your PeopleSoft environment.

Key Topics Covered:
– Understanding the Changing DEI Landscape: Explore the recent developments and legal implications surrounding affirmative action and diversity in hiring.
– DEI as a Talent Strategy: Learn how DEI initiatives can enhance your organization’s ability to recruit, develop, and retain top talent for your PeopleSoft systems.
– Best Practices for Inclusive Hiring: Discover strategies for creating equitable and bias-free recruitment processes that attract a diverse range of candidates.
– Building a Diverse Development Pipeline: Explore methods for nurturing talent from within your organization, emphasizing mentorship and professional growth opportunities.
– Retention and Employee Engagement: Understand how fostering an inclusive workplace culture can improve employee retention and productivity within your PeopleSoft team.
– Metrics and Measurement: Learn how to track and evaluate the impact of your DEI efforts in the context of your PeopleSoft ecosystem, allowing for data-driven improvements.

Join us for this enlightening session to discover how DEI can empower your organization to thrive in an ever-changing business landscape. Gain actionable insights and takeaways to implement a holistic DEI strategy within your PeopleSoft systems, ensuring you have access to the most talented and diverse team to drive your success. Together, we will explore how DEI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategic imperative for your organization’s growth and sustainability.

As individuals and members of the Quest community, we believe in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for all. Quest has a history as a diverse and inclusive organization, as we believe our community is stronger and more valuable to its members because of its diverse make-up. I am excited to chair Quest’s DEI Committee this year as we work to ensure Quest’s beliefs on this matter are reinforced and operationalized in organizational behavior that endures.

Black History Month is a crucial annual observance that celebrates the rich and diverse contributions of African Americans to the cultural, social, economic, and political fabric of the United States and beyond. Recognized every February, this month serves as a dedicated time to highlight the often overlooked achievements, struggles, and triumphs of the Black community.

In observance of Women’s History Month, Quest celebrates the determined spirit, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements of women throughout history, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive and empowered world. I am honored to offer my insights on the significance of this month. I’m a woman who works in technology and a woman who works in construction—both fields where the workforce is predominantly male. Women’s History Month reminds me to examine how I can help other women succeed.

As May unfolds its vibrant hues, we step into a time of reflection, celebration, and recognition. Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month beckons us to embrace the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and identities that shape our collective narrative. For many, this month is not just a commemoration but a poignant reminder of the significance of representation and community.

Pride Month is not only a time of celebration and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community at large but also within the tech industry. While technology has often been at the forefront of innovation and progress, the industry has also faced its share of challenges in terms of diversity and inclusion. Pride Month serves as an opportunity for the tech sector to reflect on its journey towards greater acceptance, representation, and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals.

As we step into Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latinx communities in shaping our world. At Quest, we recognize that diversity is not just about acknowledging differences—it is about celebrating them, understanding their value, and integrating them into the fabric of our innovation and community.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to celebrate the contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce and promote inclusive hiring practices. This observance encourages organizations to reflect on the importance of creating accessible, equitable, workplaces for all employees, regardless of ability.

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to honoring and celebrating the rich cultures, contributions, and resilience of Native American communities. This month offers an opportunity for organizations to deepen their understanding of Native American histories and engage in meaningful recognition and support.

The Quest community has a history of being a diverse and inclusive organization, as we believe our community is stronger and more valuable to its members because of its diverse make-up. Quest is continuing its DEI journey with a focus on formalizing many of our practices in search of continuous improvement (an organizational core value), and to ensure our beliefs are reinforced and operationalized in organizational behavior that endures.

February is recognized as Black History Month. The month honors those who have endured centuries of struggle, and those who continue to fight for civil rights. As part of honoring Black History Month, Quest would like to provide you with a list of key organizations serving the African American community, particularly those with a focus on technology, leadership, and professional development in functions that many of our members perform in their companies. As technology continues to change, the need for new thoughts and ideas will also increase.

Women’s History Month marks an opportunity to celebrate, support and uplift women. And at this time, I am reminded of both the people who had a strong influence on my life and Maya Angelou’s words, “Prepare yourself so you can be a rainbow in somebody else’s cloud. Be a blessing to somebody.”

Celebrate Diversity Month takes place in April every year. It was initiated in 2004 to recognize and honor the diversity of the world around us. It is a time to recognize and understand our differences, while honoring the common essence of humanity. By appreciating our similarities and differences, the month aims to get people to foster a deeper understanding of others, regardless of who they are, what they are or how they live. It is also an opportunity to increase diversity in the workplace.

Quest has a history of partnering with local organizations, but this year’s collective impact of Quest for Good initiatives is the community’s most comprehensive. With thanks and appreciation to attendees, speakers and partners for their financial support of the 2023 BLUEPRINT 4D conference taking place soon in Dallas TX, this annual program is again focused on creating a positive impact in our local host community.

Quest Recognizes Members of the Community as part of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Quest is a community that has been extremely fortunate to have had a number of people from the Asian and Pacific Islander community positively impact the organization, and the community it serves, over its 25+ years of existence.

At Quest, we strive to make sure ALL stakeholders feel included and have a sense of belonging in the Quest community. We strive to foster an organization where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves into the community. Over the years, the Quest community has had members of the LGBTQIA++ community involved in our community, and many have held leadership positions of Quest. During the month of June, we honor their involvement and accomplishments in Quest by pausing to understand the history of the month, to raise awareness on inclusivity best practices and to highlight organizations that are at the intersection of LGBTQIA++ and technology.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the technology industry, diversity is not just a buzzword; it is a necessity. Embracing and celebrating diversity is crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring that technology reflects the needs and experiences of a global community. One important aspect of this celebration is Hispanic Heritage Month, a time when we recognize and honor the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latinx individuals to technology and society at large. In this blog, we will delve into the history of Hispanic Heritage Month, explore why it is essential to acknowledge it in the technology sector, and highlight organizations working at the intersection of Hispanic inclusion in tech.

For more than 25 years, the Quest Oracle Community has served the Oracle user community by bringing together JD Edwards, PeopleSoft and now Oracle Fusion Apps customers for connection and shared learning.

 
Over these many years Quest has worked to support local communities hosting Quest conferences through its Quest for Good program. Each year, Quest for Good supports worthy local organizations making a positive impact at the intersection of technology and underserved communities.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities past and present and showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees.

 
As part of the Hays initiative, Helping For Your Tomorrow, our staff have been equipping people with disabilities with the tools they need to enter the world of work.

National Native American Heritage Month, otherwise referred to as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, is recognized in November to honor Native communities for their cultures and traditions while raising awareness about the unique historical and present-day struggles of Indigenous people in the US. In our pursuit of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), it is essential to celebrate the rich heritage and history of Native American cultures. The Indigenous peoples of this land have an invaluable legacy that is deeply woven into the fabric of our society. Understanding and honoring their traditions is not just a matter of historical significance, but a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable world.

As we prepare to step into a new year, it is important to reflect on the strides we have made, and the milestones achieved in 2023. This past year was a testament to our commitment to growth, innovation, and creating a more inclusive environment within our organization. Diversity, equity, and inclusion remained at the core of our organizational ethos. Building upon our established DEI efforts, 2023 saw substantial progress and formalization of our commitment. Our DEI Taskforce evolved into a standing committee, solidifying our long-term dedication to this initiative. Throughout the year, we worked to raise awareness and provided education, aligning our efforts with eight nationally celebrated months. At BLUEPRINT 4D, our expanded DEI programming empowered attendees to learn from industry leaders and gain actionable insights.