Question 1:
Is the Maturity Matrix right for our organisation?

The Maturity Matrix has been designed based on feedback from organisations across all sectors, which showed that different companies were at different points of maturity in their ethnicity journey. Organisations also highlighted a need for a time-efficient tool to help them measure their success. This tool is designed to support those involved in decision-making, planning and strategy on the ethnicity agenda. The Matrix is designed to aid your journey no matter what stage you are at in the process.

We envisage the Matrix should take no longer than one hour to complete, as long as you have access to the information needed. This will allow time-resources to be used to embed key changes, instead of being spent on lengthy bench-marking.

Question 2:
What do I need to do?

The Matrix is for organisations to undertake a self-assessment, review the actions and requirements for each of the five areas and work through the levels of maturity.

Your organisation should aim for the level that is achievable and ensures the best next steps on your journey.

An audit and prior knowledge of steps already taken within this agenda would be beneficial before planning next steps when using the Matrix. It is useful to have knowledge of any existing diversity and inclusion strategy within your organisation, as many of the recommendations may have already been executed or can align to existing initiatives or processes. Points are also awarded for a percentage of a goal completed or planned.

Question 3:
Who should be involved in this process?

The Matrix is a tool to help your organisation start conversations. It is recommended that the Matrix is more effective if worked through and completed by a committee of selected representatives of the organisation who are engaged in this agenda, including the involvement of a senior champion, members of the ethnicity network and HR. If you have a Diversity and Inclusion lead, it’s important they are engaged in this process.

Question 4:
Do I need to work through and complete each level before moving on to the next?

All points accomplished contribute to your scoring and help us build a picture of your strategy against all organisations (see guidance notes by filling in our form).

Question 5:
Will the Matrix stay the same each year?

The Matrix is supported by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Governance and Inclusive Leadership and will evolve based on feedback every three years. Please submit any feedback or any further recommendations to matrix@investinginethnicity.com.

This year we have re-launched the Matrix based on feedback, as submissions are now in their fifth year. Apart from minor adjustments that reflect new legislation or practices, the next full revision will be 2024.

Question 5:
During what period should my organisation have completed each action?

All activities must be undertaken within an 18-month period (i.e. January 2021 – June 2022), unless otherwise stated.

Question 6:
What happens after submitting the Matrix on 30 June?

All information is kept strictly confidential, and in line with data protection laws.

After submitting the Matrix, your organisation will be point-scored and given a basic summary which will include: The level of your accreditation, your ranking broken down into the six areas (Leadership & Commitment, Policy & Data, Culture & Inclusion, Employee Life Cycle, and External Impact) and recommended areas for improvement.

You can also join our membership programme, which gives additional benefits, a one-to-one consultation and a full report. For more information about the membership, please email us at admin@investinginethnicity.com.

Question 7:
How will my organisation be recognised for its commitment?

For those who have attained one of the four levels, organisations will receive a badge for that respective level. Badges can be used on company communication and promotional collateral.

The Ethnicity Awards will also recognise employers who have invested in this agenda and will include an award for one Outstanding Employer that has shown exceptional commitment and innovation in this agenda. You will have the opportunity to nominate individuals from your organisation and your network group for other Awards categories.

Question 8:
Do I need to provide evidence for each of the actions?

We reserve the right to request evidence to validate that the information you have given is correct. However, it is not required at submission. We may also ask your organisation to give further information on a particular area to highlight good practice and use within our case studies (with permission).

Question 9:
What if I need additional help?

The Matrix is free to submit, and we can answer any questions you may have, by emailing: matrix@investinginethnicity.com or calling our dedicated helpline 020 7258 1777.

Many of the organisations involved have also joined our low-cost membership to help further embed the recommendations and receive additional support.

The Maturity Matrix can only be submitted using the online portal at https://investinginethnicity.org/maturity-matrix-submission/