As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we reflect on the role of women in driving progress and creativity across industries. Innovation thrives on diversity in the workplace, and companies that foster inclusive environments tend to outperform their competitors. Yet, despite progress, women remain underrepresented in technology-related roles. In this blog, we’ll explore how diverse teams enhance problem-solving and creativity, why organisations with women in leadership excel, and what steps businesses can take to support gender diversity.
The power of diverse teams in problem-solving and innovation
When it comes to problem-solving and innovative thinking, diverse teams are a key driver. Diversity in the workplace brings together a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking, which can lead to creative breakthroughs and more effective solutions. According to a study by McKinsey, companies with diverse executive teams are 39% more likely to outperform their peers in profitability. This highlights that workplace diversity isn’t just a “nice-to-have” – it’s a competitive advantage.
In addition, Reuters reports that women-led startups often outperform their male counterparts in generating higher returns on investment, yet they receive significantly less venture capital funding. This disparity highlights a persistent bias that limits their potential. Empowering more women with the resources to lead in tech could drive a more inclusive, innovative, and profitable industry.
Women in leadership drive success
The benefits of inclusion extend even further when having women in leadership roles. A report found that businesses founded by women deliver higher revenue compared to those run by men. This is partly because women in leadership tend to adopt more inclusive leadership styles, collaborative, and strategic approaches, which resonate with today’s rapidly evolving market demands.
Moreover, the presence of women on corporate boards or executive committees contributes significantly to a company’s bottom line. A study by The Pipeline, as highlighted in the World Economic Forum, revealed that companies with more than a quarter of women on their executive committees achieved a profit margin of 16%, more than 10 times higher than those with no female board members.
Fostering gender diversity in tech: practical steps
To unlock the full potential of gender diversity, companies must be proactive in fostering an inclusive environment where women in tech can thrive. One way to do this is by providing mentorship programmes, leadership training, and equal access to career advancement opportunities. Establishing policies that promote work-life balance, fair pay, and a supportive company culture can also play a crucial role in retaining women in the tech industry.
At OneAdvanced, we recognise there’s still a long way to go in addressing the underrepresentation of women in tech. While we’re making good progress, we remain committed to fostering conversations that inspire change and drive greater gender diversity in technology. Make sure you watch our Women in Tech series to hear first-hand from some of the incredible women in our business about their experiences and the impact they’re making.
A more inclusive future
More women in business doesn’t just mean greater equality—it means better business outcomes, more innovative solutions, and stronger companies. By embracing diversity, particularly in the tech industry, organisations can unlock a wealth of creativity and fresh perspectives that drive them toward long-term success. It’s time for the tech industry to fully harness the power of women and recognise that diversity is the key to innovation and growth.
