Inclusive Futures: Lessons from Emerging Contexts on Building Equitable Digital Systems

This book offers a comprehensive analysis of the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the technology sector from a global perspective. Comprising seven in-depth chapters, the book highlights inherent biases within technology and strategies for constructing inclusive products and services. It takes on a forward-looking outlook on the future of DEI in technology, visualizing a world in which technology functions as a unifying force for positive social transformation.

The authors examine DEI and their significance across different regions, to enhance readers' awareness and understanding. This increased understanding is crucial for professionals and policymakers to make informed decisions that foster an inclusive technological environment. The book equips the readers with knowledge to identify and address these biases in technology, including algorithms, datasets, and user interfaces, through an in-depth study of such biases. This is particularly valuable for technology developers, designers, and companies that aim to create fair and unbiased technology products and services. Through the global and local case studies and empirical research, readers learn valuable insights to developing inclusive technology products and services that caters to a diverse range of users. This book also addresses recruitment practices and cultural changes necessary within tech organizations to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce. The topic of how technology can bridge the digital divide and empower underrepresented communities, is studied, providing new ideas for such initiatives in the future.

This book serves as a valuable resource for practitioners involved in the development of technology, hiring in the technology sector and leaders involved in policymaking of ethical and regulatory aspects of DEI in technology.