Diversity Programs at the Workplace Team C RES/351 10/16/13 REZA MAHALLATI Running head: PREPARING TO CONDUCT BUSINESS RESEARCH: PART 1 1 PREPARING TO CONDUCT BUSINESS RESEARCH: PART 1 5 Diversity Programs at the Workplace Abstract The contemporary idea on diversity extends the scope and recognizes diversity as an array of items characterized by variances and similarities. Numerous aspects such as escalating arrival of immigrants, strategic alliances among firms, and the growing rate of globalization of businesses has considerably influenced dynamics in diversity (Bohlander, George & Snell, 2007). The purpose of this research proposal is to look at some of the diversity issues in my organization. The proposal highlights various elements such as purpose, the research questions, hypotheses, ethical considerations and other variables. In addition, the proposal will highlight significance, scope, magnitude and feasibility of exploring diversity programs at my workplace. Introduction Diversity is the montage of persons who express an array of backgrounds, techniques, viewpoints, and principles as resources to organizations with which they share (Rasmussen, 1996). Reasons contributing to the rise in diversity include the influx of immigrants, strategic alliances, and skills search, demographic dynamics and the rising globalization of businesses. Divergences among individuals and systems shape an organization’s ability to establish broad perspectives and to address emerging business challenges (Talbot-Allen, 1995). Because of the emerging developments in diversity, firms are striving to align programs that embrace these developments and how they can successfully exploit diversity for competitive advantage (Wentling & Palma-Rivas, 1998). Latest researches by Teradata Corporation suggest that an average worker stays in a company for approximately 3.6 years and the rate is expected to decline. This high turnover will raise diversity through newly hired workers. Purpose of study The intention of this study is to search for an appreciation and understanding on the development of diversity programs and among companies that operate domestically and those with international presence. In the recent years, the number of companies seeking introduction of diversity programs has risen considerably even though the numbers vary among various organizations (Fine, Johnson, & Ryan, 1990). The study will center on selected organizations that have operations in the local market and others that have international presence in the last decade. This study will allow us to identify the existing trends in diversity components at the two sets of organizations with the intension of developing suitable programs to address any findings. Context of study Until recently, the concept of diversity had not taken a prominent position among the critical issues facing organizational management. Recent studies demonstrate that more organizations are considering dive ...