Creating More Equitable Workplaces Through Gender-Centered Design

Women in the U.S. workforce have long faced work environments that systematically disadvantage them. The onset of COVID-19 has exacerbated these inequities, especially for women with young children and women of color. Employers are now facing a job market where millions have exited the workforce to maintain the flexibility to care for their families, and workers are switching jobs in search of virtual options. This, along with other drivers, has left employers struggling to find workers.

This research project examined how employers can attract and retain talent by applying five pillars of gender-centered design. This paper explores how organizations are currently applying these pillars to create humane work environments that are more equitable, inclusive, and productive.