Gender and innovation for corporate change in ICT: Culture as continuity or change for women workers?

Abstract

The presence and position of women working in ICT companies in Spain has until now been unchartered territory. This working paper is based on a research project looking at women's participation and position in the ICT sector in Spain. Empirical research consisted of both quantitative and qualitative analysis including a survey to 327 companies (48% response rate) and 12 in-depth case studies in a range of ICT companies. Findings from the quantitative analysis revolved around three main issues, a) how male and female respondents perceived different barriers hindering the access of women to top positions b) how the culture, size and the type of innovative company influenced the implementation of gender sensitive policies c) how the increased presence of women in management could be linked to the implementation of gender sensitive policies. Findings from the qualitative analysis enabled us to develop a typology of companies according to their conception of ‘equality' (non-discrimination v diversity), openness to change (space/ time), implementation of gender sensitive measures (reactive/ pro-active) and level of formalization.  The main findings of the research highlighted major differences between how multinational (Anglo-Saxon culture) and Spanish (Latin culture) companies operate in terms of the above axes. Our research showed how company cultures therefore act as either a barrier hindering women's entry and progression or can open up opportunities for women in the ICT industry.