Merit, Excellence, & Intelligence Resources
Merit, Excellence, & Intelligence
ADEPT attaches value to the resources we have uploaded to this site, all of which have been recommended by our team of program specialists. ADEPT, however, does not necessarily endorse the conclusions of all authors. We do believe, however, that diversity of opinion can often enrich our understanding of a particular issue.
Merit
ThoughtCo. – Understanding Meritocracy from a Sociological Perspective
The history of the term meritocracy is briefly reviewed and contrasted with aristocracy. The author notes that “meritocracy is a social system in which success and status in life depend primarily on individual talents, abilities, and effort.” While many Western societies are often considered to be meritocracies, this view is challenged. Instead, it is noted that “structural inequalities and systems of oppression” exist that “limit opportunities based on class, gender, race, ethnicity, ability, sexuality, and other social markers.”
CTO Magazine – From DEI to MEI: The Rise of Merit-Based Hiring in Corporate America
In this article, the author examines the Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) vs. Merit, Excellence, & Intelligence (MEI) debate. The following six issues are discussed: 1) What is MEI and how did it emerge as an alternative to DEI?; 2) Understanding the MEI framework: From merit to intelligence; 3) Why the shift from DEI to MEI is gaining momentum in corporate America; 4) DEI to MEI: Why critics say the shift isn’t entirely fair; 5) MEI vs DEI: What lies ahead in the workplace culture debate; and 6) Finding balance: Can DEI and MEI coexist in modern workplaces?
University of Oxford / Department of Physiology, Anatomy, & Genetics – Anti-Racism Resources October 2022: Diversity in a Meritocracy
This article calls for us to “become more aware of the role of unearned privilege and bias in our decision-making processes” in order “to ensure that merit-based recruitment, promotion, and reward are equitable.” Four key tips are proposed for embedding inclusive practices in organizations: 1) defining essential criteria; 2) attracting a broader range of talent; 3) removing bias from processes; and 4) engaging in monitoring and reviewing
MITSloan Management Review – Achieving Meritocracy in the Workplace
This report examines how “merit-based reward practices can unintentionally lead to pay disparities based on gender, race, and national origin.” The importance of incorporating organizational accountability and transparency into 1) processes and criteria; 2) outcomes, and 3) audiences are emphasized. Making appropriate use of data and “people analytics” can help to create more meritocratic systems.
Society for Human Resource Management – BEAM FRAMEWORK
This SHRM graphic outlines 5 key steps that HR professionals can take to fosterBelonging Enhanced by Access Through Merit (BEAM)in organizations.A toolkit/structured guideis available for SHRM members.
Excellence
American Society for Quality – What are Performance Metrics
This article reviews different types of performance metrics that can be used to assess an organization’s actions, abilities, quality, and success. These metrics include both financial and non-financial measurements as well as market responsiveness, customer loyalty, quality, timeliness, and mechanisms that foster workforce and organizational learning, growth, and continual improvement. Best practices in Metrology (Measurement Science) are described including measurement assurance and performance measurement necessities. Links are provided to additional performance metrics resources, including articles, case studies, and publications.
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – Baldrige Performance Excellence Program
This website provides a variety of resources including definitions of key Baldrige terms, improvement tools, and applications in different organizational and service delivery sectors (e.g., manufacturing, small business, education, health care, and nonprofit/government).
Intelligence
Simple Psychology – Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences
This article describes eight different types of intelligence, including Linguistic, Logical-Mathematical, Spatial, Musical, Bodily-Kinesthetic, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal, and Naturalistic. People bring a host of associated strengths, talents, and learning styles to the workforce and organizations.
Kaplan Business School Australia – The Six Quotients of Modern Leadership
This blog article defines six quotients – Intelligence (IQ), Digital (DQ), Emotional (EQ), Cultural (CQ), Social (SQ), and Adversity (AQ) – that can help leaders become more effective and innovative. Related leadership skills and strategies for further developing these skills are shared.