In-depth and detailed knowledge of an organization's areas of strength and weakness related to diversity and inclusion are critical to design and implement successful programs to effect positive change. A Needs Analysis/Cultural Audit can pinpoint critical areas on which to focus initial efforts, and provide a baseline by which to measure the effectiveness of interventions.

A Needs Analysis/Cultural Audit consists of gathering data from a variety of sources, using methodologies appropriate and relevant to each organization's culture, structure, and population. Focus groups, surveys, individual interviews, reviews of policy and procedure, and other appropriate techniques are applied to uncover and assess potential areas of concern. Simmons Associates, Inc. works with organizations to prescribe the most effective process to meet their unique needs. Many organizations use regular audits, first to provide initial baselines, and at intervals following specific phases of a Diversity and Inclusion Initiative, to quantify the impact of the effort within the organization.

Key Objectives:

• Allows for clear identification of baselines against which to measure future progress
• Clearly identifies challenges and opportunities to focus efforts to insure cost effective initiatives
• Enables leaders and managers to address their particular issues to set key improvement goals and metrics
• Allows the consulting organization to "fine-tune" the content of any process or workshop design