Workforce Diversity: Does Formalization Matter?

Jaehee Jong (left) is an Assistant Professor teaching Human Resources Management and Organizational Theory. One stream of Jong’s research has focused on providing new perspectives on workplace dynamics. Along this line, she examined how public organizations’ bureaucratic characteristics can reduce the potential negative effects of workplace diversity on employees’ work outcomes.
 

Using a sample of government employees from 42 state agencies, the study found that the contextual environment of public organizations—formalization (i.e., employees are expected to follow specific rules or procedures in performing tasks)—contributes to positive performance in demographically diverse workforces.
 

The finding is important for public managers who seek ways of working with a diverse workforce.  The study suggests that a diverse workforce does not automatically lead to favorable or harmful outcomes. Rather, diversity dynamics must be viewed within specific organizational contexts, which could realize benefits of diversity or experience negative effects if potential sources of dysfunction are not addressed. As such, diversity management practices may involve fostering work environments where well-designed procedures or rules are effectively implemented and formalization practices are well defined. 

To read more about Dr. Jong’s experience and research visit her webpage here.