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Not all differences are created equal: Not all should be managed the same: The diversity challenge in pharmaceutical R&D
Author(s) -
Stork Diana
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
drug development research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.582
H-Index - 60
eISSN - 1098-2299
pISSN - 0272-4391
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1098-2299(199803)43:3<174::aid-ddr7>3.0.co;2-g
Subject(s) - diversity (politics) , creativity , personality psychology , psychology , social psychology , public relations , sociology , political science , personality , anthropology
Abstract The concept of diversity is broadened herein to include a wide range of differences among individuals and groups that influence behavior and can impact the effectiveness of drug R&D. A model is presented that includes four levels of differences. These range from personal characteristics that people are born with to differences that are created by organizational policies and practices. Each of the levels is discussed in relation to drug R&D. The article explores how drug R&D leaders can deal with differences in ways that encourage the creativity needed for drug discovery and the discipline and unity of purpose so important for R&D success. The conclusion is that different kinds of differences should be managed in different ways. R&D managers and leaders should recognize individual differences and try to deal more openly and honestly with people about their personalities, abilities, and predispositions. They should be more active in their organization's efforts to deal with traditional dimensions of diversity. They need to recognize both the necessity for, and problems that can result from, having different disciplines in the R&D process. They should be liaisons and need to develop “soft” skills in areas like group development and conflict resolution. R&D leaders are also encouraged to examine their organization's policies and practices around organizational design, levels, titles, and perquisites, as these may create perceived differences among individuals and groups that can diminish the effectiveness of R&D. Drug Dev. Res. 43:174–181, 1998. © 1998 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.