Jumping on the bandwagon, I wanted to see what ChatGPT (the new AI system) would say about DEI work. I figure it’s best to know what our new AI overlords will think when they take over. Here’s what it had to say about the business case for DEI:

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace can have a number of benefits for businesses:

Increased Innovation: A diverse workforce brings a variety of perspectives and ideas, which can lead to more creative and innovative solutions to problems.

Improved Reputation: Companies that have a reputation for valuing DEI may attract a wider pool of talent and customers.

Better Decision Making: Teams that are diverse and inclusive are more likely to make better decisions, as they consider a wider range of perspectives.

Greater Employee Satisfaction: Employees who feel included and valued are more likely to be engaged and satisfied in their work.

Increased Productivity: A diverse and inclusive work environment can lead to improved communication and collaboration, which can increase productivity.

Financial Performance: Studies have shown that companies with more diverse leadership teams tend to have better financial performance.

Better recruitment of talent: A diverse and inclusive culture can make a business more attractive to potential employees, especially in a tight labor market.

Overall, DEI is a significant factor for business success, and companies that prioritize DEI are better positioned to respond to the changing demographics of their workforce, customers and communities.

So far, so good. But what case might it make against doing DEI work? Rather sanctimoniously, but wisely, it responded:

There is no real business case for not doing DEI work as it can have negative consequences for a company.

1. Risk of legal action: Failing to address discrimination and bias can lead to legal action and penalties, as well as damage to a company’s reputation.
2. Loss of top talent: A lack of DEI initiatives can make a company less attractive to top talent, especially those from underrepresented groups.
3. Decrease in productivity: A lack of diversity and inclusion can lead to a less engaged and productive workforce.
4. Decrease in Innovation: A lack of diversity can lead to a lack of new perspectives and ideas, resulting in less innovation.
5. Decrease in customer connections: Without DEI initiatives, a company may struggle to connect with and understand diverse customer bases, leading to a loss of business.
6. Damage to reputation: Companies that are seen as not promoting DEI may be viewed unfavorably by employees, customers, and other stakeholders.
7. Risk of being left behind: As DEI becomes more important for companies, those that don’t prioritize it may be at a competitive disadvantage.

Well, OK then. But we all know that DEI work isn’t, and shouldn’t be, about the bottom line. It should be because we actually want to live in a better world where people matter just because they are people. What does the AI have to say about that?

The non-business case for doing DEI work is related to the benefits it can bring to society as a whole. Some of these benefits include:

1. Promoting social justice: DEI initiatives can help to address and reduce discrimination and bias, and promote greater fairness and equity in society.
2. Improving community relations: DEI initiatives can help to build stronger, more inclusive communities and improve relations between different groups.
3. Enhancing cultural understanding: DEI initiatives can help to promote greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures, and reduce stereotypes and prejudices.
4. Supporting human rights: DEI initiatives can help to uphold and protect the rights of marginalized and underrepresented groups.
5. Encouraging civic engagement: DEI initiatives can inspire individuals to become more active and engaged in their communities, and to advocate for positive change.
6. Building stronger democracy: DEI initiatives can help to ensure that all voices are heard and represented in decision-making, and to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
7. Improving overall well-being: DEI initiatives can contribute to the overall well-being of individuals and communities by fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity.

Pretty lofty stuff. I like it. I am reassured that when the computers take over, they will do it in an equitable and inclusive way. Thoughts?