Policy Development

Building a Foundation of Equity

Policies have the power to perpetuate inequities or drive systemic change. That's why we've developed a rigorous approach to crafting and revising policies that advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in organizations. Our Equity Advisors, part of our Nuance Culture Consulting team, apply a proven four-question framework to assess, revise, and develop policies through an equity lens.

policies aren't neutral

The Question Framework for Equitable Policy Making

What is the purpose of the policy?

The journey to equitable policy begins with clarity of purpose. We work with you to articulate the specific issues the policy aims to address, grounded in data-driven insights rather than assumptions. By clearly defining the "why" behind the policy and establishing measurable goals, we create a North Star for evaluating its effectiveness in advancing equity.

How will this policy impact individuals?

Policies can have unintended consequences, particularly for marginalized groups. Our Equity Advisors conduct a thorough review of your policies applying a broad DEI lens to identify possible negative outcomes based on multiple and intersecting identities. By examining potential disparate effects across various identity dimensions, we reveal where proposed rules may inadvertently exclude or disadvantage certain populations. This diagnostic phase fuels evidence-based recommendations for equitable policy design.

What are equitable rules that achieve the purpose?

Armed with a clear understanding of the policy's purpose and potential impacts, we collaborate with you to develop the structural components – procedures, criteria, resource allocation, accountability measures – that operationalize equity. We remove or build in interventions to mitigate identified barriers embedding accessibility and support for underrepresented groups. Throughout the policy crafting process, our equity advisors provide input based on their lived experience and expertise to ensure solutions are as equitable as possible.

What have we missed and what can we improve?

Equitable policymaking is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Even the most well-intentioned policies can have unintended consequences. That's why we engage in rigorous stress testing, inviting diverse perspectives to critique the policy through an equity lens. We simulate scenarios to expose weak points where inequitable outcomes could still occur, and we establish feedback loops for continuous improvement. By institutionalizing a culture of constructive feedback and accountability, we ensure policies evolve to meet the needs of all stakeholders.

The Nuance Difference

Lived Experience + Subject Matter Expertise

Our Equity Advisors bring a unique blend of lived experience navigating systemic inequities and deep subject matter expertise in DEI best practices. This powerful combination allows us to provide nuanced insights and practical recommendations for advancing equity through policy.

Intersectional Lens

We understand that identity is multidimensional and that individuals can face compounded marginalization based on the intersection of various factors such as race, gender, ability, and socioeconomic status. Our approach to policy analysis and development accounts for these intersectional experiences, ensuring no one is left behind.

Collaborative Partnership

We believe that equitable policymaking requires co-creation, not top-down imposition. We work closely with your team, leveraging your institutional knowledge while bringing an outside perspective to challenge assumptions and spark innovative solutions. Our goal is to build your internal capacity for equity-centered policy development that endures beyond our engagement.

Measurable Impact

We help you establish clear metrics for success and build in accountability mechanisms to equity outcomes over time. Polices are living documents that can and should be improved over time based on the equity outcomes your employees experience.

Are You ready to "Break" Your Policies to Unbreak Them?

Policies are a powerful lever for driving systemic change. By embedding equity into the fabric of your organization's rules and procedures, you create a foundation for transformative, sustainable impact. Our Equitable Policy Development Services help you move beyond good intentions to intentional action, ensuring that your policies reflect your values and advance your DEI goals.

Whether you're looking to revise existing policies or develop new ones, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. We invite you to partner with us on your journey to creating a more equitable, inclusive organization. Together, we can craft policies that unlock the potential of all individuals and communities.

Contact us today to learn more about how our Equitable Policy Development Services can help you turn policy into progress.