The Year of Diversity and Inclusion
In the assigned reading on McPherson this week, the author talks of U.S operating systems and how they must be altered in order to accommodate for hybrid practices. McPherson calls for a broader definition and understanding of “code studies”. Currently “code studies” are focused on understanding how computational systems develop and operate, however they are missing the important cultural aspect. She states,
“We must develop common languages that link the study of code and culture[…] We need new hybrid practices artist-theorists; programming humanists; activist scholars; theoretical archivists; critical race coders”.
Similarly, in the medium article by Emilia Palaveeva, talks of the changes that are occurring within big name companies and their mindset on work culture going into 2018. Uber, for example, is hoping to make considerable efforts toward being a more empathic company in regards to how to enable upward mobility, and how to design the service in a way that is culturally appropriate. Additionally, Microsoft has made inclusion and diversity as a business goal, working on inclusive designs for “all human beings”.When reading this, I thought of the clip we watched in class about color film and the bias that exists when creating, developing, and innovating technology. I was pleased to see that companies like Uber and Microsoft are taking action to prevent this bias and diversify their workplace. In turn of this diversification, they will have varying thought process and this can only aid in the inclusion of all peoples when it comes to products etc. While bias is sometimes unintentional, companies and leaders can do more to account for the bias that is likely to occur in for example a room full of male coders. Holding yourself and your company accountable for the bias that may occur is the key to the change McPherson speaks of. On the other hand, IBM is working towards keeping their consumers in the loop about the systems they design in order to create a system of feedback and listening. This is another way in which companies are creating a culture of inclusivity that will in turn only aid their efforts/business. It was comforting to see that 2018 is starting off in the right direction and we are working towards the “hybrid practices” McPherson advocates for.
Sources:
McPherson, Tara. U.S Operating Systems at Mid-Century.
Palaveeva, Emilia. “What Design Chiefs At Uber, IBM, And Microsoft Care About In 2018 — And Why.” Medium, Fast Company, 9 Mar. 2018, medium.com/fast-company/what-design-chiefs-at-uber-ibm-and-microsoft-care-about-in-2018-and-why-c718f95b009d.
