The importance of diversity in decision making

Diversity of thought has always been important in decision making.

It’s rarely been more important than now, when the benefits of diversity are so under threat and people are more divided.

Lack of diversity can result in a lack of understanding and lack of tolerance, resulting in tribalism, and, at worst, violence. If unaddressed, it creates and feeds a culture of 'I’m right, you’re wrong'.

Respecting and valuing diversity is vital to living together in harmony and to making good and sound decisions. It’s grounded in basic respect for others. Where would the fun be in life without a good debate about what film to watch, where to go for a day out, or what to have for the next meal?

Better decisions are made by having diverse opinions and respecting other views. It’s not always easy, I admit that. Especially when politics or religion are involved. It is, however, vital that we strive for tolerance and accept diversity as a strength. We need to be proud of diversity in all forms.

Diversity is not just a good thing generally, it’s essential for good decision making – especially in the sphere of housing governance and leadership. Where is my evidence you ask? I can only use my own experiences and observations of the importance of diversity.

There are major positive impacts of diversity of thought, which I have experienced. Having someone in the room when decisions are made with a different experience or a different viewpoint to call upon is so valuable. Different life experiences are as vital as different skills.

The 'have you thought about' or 'have you considered the impact of' type of questions you get from residents on boards and committees provide a chance to pause and reflect and come to the right conclusions. I remember specific decisions being made about rents, service charges, investment in existing homes or building new ones after thorough consultation when I was a CEO. This led to better decisions being made after diverse thoughts being were expressed and listened to.

Are we really listening and learning from our residents, from our staff, and from more successful colleagues and competitors? Are we really good enough at collaborating? That’s how we achieve real diversity in housing strategy and service delivery.

It’s about the diversity of thought and ideas, based on shared values, in order to achieve a shared aim and culture. Better results are then achieved for the people we serve. We need all kinds of people in this world, in our lives and involved in decision making. Everyone needs to be seen and heard.

For me, diversity of thought comes naturally, and is at the forefront of everything I do, although I must acknowledge that coming out as gay was more difficult. As a young housing graduate trainee in 1980 back at Bolton MBC, I was encouraged and supported by great CIH role models to challenge the status quo, to break the mould.

I have certainly done it my way, which has not always popular. I have and will always be diverse – and proud. So, come on you lemmings, be brave and bold and diverse!