Digital tool helps businesses assess diversity data, attract & retain diverse talent

Simon Fraser University's VentureLabs is collaborating with national industry and academic partners to develop a digital tool to help organizations establish policies and practices that increase diversity and inclusion strategies. The Diversity Assessment Tool (DAT) App is being created by VentureLabs together with Toronto Metropolitan University's (TMU) Diversity Institute, Magnet, and SalesChoice Inc. As a first-of-its-kind resource, the DAT App will support organizations as they build workplaces that attract and retain diverse talent. The tool will create new pathways for people to work in digital jobs and acquire the necessary skills to do their jobs in workplaces of the future, which will require redefining jobs and skills, and changing how employers hire, train and retain skilled workers. -As a top B.C. business accelerator supporting science, technology and innovation-based companies, we are excited to develop and pilot the DAT App within our VentureLabs community,- said Lesley Esford, SFU VentureLabs- acting executive director. -By increasing the accessibility of diversity assessment and resources to organizations of all sizes it will allow them to create and implement an EDI strategy from the beginning. -The ripple effect of organizations who have diversity strategies created by using this tool will create increased and ongoing demand for underrepresented groups and individuals for governance positions, procurements contracts, employees and leaders.