Showing posts with label inclusion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label inclusion. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Microsoft Diversity And Inclusion

People of Microsoft Asia Our mission is deeply inclusive. Using the Diversity and Inclusion app in Microsoft Teams employees can easily discover existing Diversity and Inclusion groups create new ones which will help them to connect and collaborate with like-minded peers in the organization.

Business Strategic Plan Global Diversity Inclusion At Microsoft

Microsoft has been making.

Microsoft diversity and inclusion. Microsoft Software and Systems Academy Inclusive hiring for people with disabilities In order to build the best products for everyone Microsoft needs a diverse and inclusive workforce across all abilities and Microsoft has an unwavering commitment to providing opportunities for all. Today I am sharing Microsofts 2020 Diversity and Inclusion report which comes at a time marked by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic amplified acts of racial injustice and the reality of global uncertainty. Create a more inclusive culture.

In 2019 we made important progress on our diversity and inclusion objectives as reflected in the numbers. Employees that represent the markets we serve give us greater consumer insight creativity and real-time market innovation. Microsoft began publishing its annual workforce.

It is important to. Demographic data publicly in 2014 among just three percent of the Fortune 500 companies to do so. Wrote Microsofts Chief Diversity Officer Lindsay-Ray McIntyre in her introduction to the report.

Director of Global Diversity and Inclusion - Strategy Innovation and Partnerships Microsoft Navas Rosette is responsible for the design development and delivery of enterprise-wide strategy and solutions. Microsofts first full-fledged diversity and inclusion report tells a well-worn story in the world of tech. Diversity inclusion requires courage leadership says a top Microsoft exec from NC.

Last years 2019 Diversity Inclusion Report marked the first time we expanded our annual demographics data. In its diversity and inclusion report Microsofts Diversity and Inclusion 2020 Report the company notes that it is written at a time marked by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic amplified acts of racial injustice and the reality of global uncertainty. When it comes to increasing diversity progress is slow.

To increase diversity among Microsoft employees. Microsofts diversity and inclusion report was released just a. After all the diversity of our workforce and the inclusion of talented women from different backgrounds are the fuel that keeps our engines of innovation and growth running.

At Microsoft we have been on a journey to leverage the strength of our diverse workforce through greater inclusion. Allyship together with covering and privilege are three important concepts and tools that we leverage to help us move our conversation around diversity and inclusion forward. Our Inclusive Hiring Programs.

Empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. At Microsoft diversity and inclusion are at the core of our culture. This years report also details our response to the pandemic investment in allyship and commitments to address racial injustice.

Microsoft is hiring and developing the best most globally diverse talent. We play an active role in creating inclusive environments where people of diverse backgrounds are excited to bring all of who they are and do their best work. Our 2020 Diversity Inclusion Report tracks our progress on our commitments to increase diversity and foster inclusion at Microsoft and in our broader communities.

The ways that diversity and inclusion is integrated into our employee. RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK The work of diversity and inclusion is. CEO Satya Nadella and Darren Walker Ford Foundation President discuss the opportunity for organizations to be innovative competitive and serve purpose through deeper connection to diversity inclusion.

Our partners share our mission On a global national and local level we work with and support organizations that are working to advance diversity and inclusion in the tech industryand in workplaces worldwide through research benchmarking program development and advocacy platforms. As we move to close the gap between our espoused culture and our lived experiences we can all. This years report focuses on three core areas in addition to the data.

The pledge made by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella who also committed to investing 150 million over five years in diversity and inclusion programs did. Organizations are looking at diversity as an integral part of business and not as a special initiative. View the full 2020 report Download a printable PDF.

Connect on topics relating to enabling a more diverse and inclusive community.

Monday, November 16, 2020

Diversity And Inclusion In Tech

There is a renewed focus on diversity and inclusion DI in the workplace and many companies are beginning to use technology to drive progress toward their DI goals. Discover why diversity and inclusion in technology fields has been difficult and what is being done to give more people opportunities.

Artificial Inclusion Why Tech Needs To Get D I Right Global Diversity Practice

Tech companies are finally talking more about the problems they have around diversity many of their own making and onlookers are closely tracking their words and efforts to do better.

Diversity and inclusion in tech. Influence starts with investment decisions. At its best technology can help reduce bias diversify talent pools and benchmark diversity and inclusion. In recent years diversity and inclusion have become big buzzwords in the tech industry and beyond.

Its worth the wait. So if diversity is so important why are we missing the mark. Last autumn RedThread Research and Mercer explored the emerging DI Technology market.

Currently in technology there is a lack of diversity and inclusion causing issues with creativity productivity and equity. The World Economic Forum has recently published a Diversity Inclusion Toolkit which outlines the practical and positive ways in which technology can be leveraged to create workplaces that are fair equitable and diverse. Diversity and inclusion is one of the biggest challenges facing the tech industry today.

And in Intels Decoding Diversity report they concluded that diversity generates higher market values and revenue. As a result dozens of tech companies have rushed to meet the rising tide of action. There are clear business benefits to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

While diversity and inclusion in technology involves developing and nurturing these practices internally companies should also consider the diversity of the people who use their products. As organizations evolve into technology companies CIOs and leaders across the business are at the forefront of instilling and rethinking diversity and inclusion in tech. Our mission is to promote diversity and inclusion in the tech and venture capital industries.

In fact a recent study suggests that improving gender and ethnic diversity in the US tech field could create 470 - 570 billion in revenue. Israel Greene founder and owner of Greene Consulting Group GCG a boutique consulting firm focused on diversity equity and inclusion strategy and leadership development joins us in this QA to share his insight and expertise about the impact of diversity and. About Diversity in Tech.

How top tech companies are addressing diversity and inclusion Black Lives Matter protests have spurred many organizations to reassess equity and diversity. Diversity in Tech is a site dedicated to helping close the diversity gap in the technology sector. At this years Diversity Inclusion in Tech Summit leaders in tech helped us explore what we can do to help make diversity equity and inclusion part of the technology culture at our companies and in our communities.

It promotes staff loyalty efficiency creative output and attractiveness to new talent to name but a few examples. Despite all sincere efforts to fix these DI issues it will never ultimately be fixed because the. DEI in software development For software developers this means building products that address not only use case but user profile.

13 diversity and inclusion ideas you can implement today. The theme for the 2021 Summit is Making DEI Part of Your Organizations DNA. For NC TECH and its member companies it is not just what we do but who we are.

From redefining recruiting practices to driving mentorship and building a culture of inclusion initiatives with a diverse tech workforce are best equipped to serve diverse customers and achieve business outcomes. The strategies mentioned above may take time to fully see results. Fairness and an effective diversity and inclusion strategy.

Plenty has been written about the problems regarding diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. In the Tech Leavers Study 62 of respondents say they would have stayed at their company if the company had taken steps to create a positive and respectful work environment and 57 of respondents would have stayed if the company had taken steps to create a fair and inclusive work culture. When businesses consist of people from the same backgrounds they often leave diverse ideas and perspectives behind.

Diversity and inclusion in Tech requires accountability in investment decisions inside tech organizations and business functions and externally via ecosystem partnerships. Contribute to the future of diversity in tech through the development of fellowships sponsorships internships and other initiatives.

Thursday, September 17, 2020

Diversity And Inclusion Strategy Examples

IBMs web site has an Overall Inclusion Statement and Inclusion Statement for Employment. BBC Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2016-20 8 Our Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan and Strategy 2016-2020 Were building on what weve done so far.

25 Examples Of Awesome Diversity Goals Ongig Blog

If you like this article you might also check out these 4 diversity tools to help you write more inclusive content.

Diversity and inclusion strategy examples. Cultivate and Support an Inclusive Culture. Below are 10 examples of Inclusion Statements I hope you draw inspiration from. Were going further and achieving more than ever and we wont stop.

Wankoff and fellow panelist Ann Sarnoff president of BBC Studios Americas discussed various hiring initiatives with a focus on diversity as well as retention initiatives that embrace inclusion. Diversity and Inclusion will be ever more a core part of who we are and what we do throughout the organisation. Advertise roles in a broad range of publications 2.

ü Included diversity and inclusion performance measures in all manager and executive. Workplace diversity has become one of the main challenges and top priorities for recruitment and other HR departments. APS Values Corporate Plan.

10 Inclusion Statement Examples. Diversity and inclusion include companys mission efforts and practices to support a diverse workplace and leverage the effects of diversity to achieve a competitive business advantage. For example take a look at these posters The Guardian created and spread around its offices to start a discussion around the 10 pillars of its DI strategy.

Our Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 201619 provides a roadmap to foster diversity and inclusion in our workforce helping us make positive contributions to social inclusion and workforce participation. Edelman Trust Barometer flash poll June 57 2020 Many companies are. ü Diversity and inclusion with measurable strategies included as a goal in the agencys strategic plan.

A company that targets the Brazilian market will benefit from hiring employees who know local cultural traditions and language. Build and Maintain a Diverse Workforce 9. SAMPLE DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STRATEGY GOALS OBJECTIVE ACTIONS ACCOUNTABILITY BY WHEN MEASURING SUCCESS Workforce diversity Recruit from a diverse qualified group of candidates to increase diversity of thinking and perspective 1.

11 SLT and leaders at all levels lead the promotion of an inclusive workplace. Beyond compliance recognising diversity and inclusion as a key business enabler and a business imperative. 12 SLT and leaders at all levels lead the identification and removal of any institutional discrimination against groups of diverse staff in respect of recruitment placement remuneration talent and performance management.

Performance plans ü Updated procurement process to include invitations to minority- and women-owned businesses. Introduce diversity and inclusion early on in the employee life cycle. You have to expand your recruiting beyond your own contact list.

60 percent of Americans say that they will buy or boycott based on a brands response to current protests. Ensure a diverse range of candidates are represented at shortlist stage Human resources All hiring managers Quarter. 60 percent of Americans say that brands must take a stand and publicly speak out on racial injustice.

Ensure Leadership Commitment 6. If an organization wants to leverage the benefits of diversity and inclusion it needs to align diversity dimensions with their strategy.

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Diversity Equity And Inclusion In The Workplace

Diversity equity and inclusion DEI are top of mind for many People Ops teams and company leaders. First there was diversity focused on improving diverse representation within organizations.

Future Of Work Five Strategies To Drive Diversity Equity And Inclusion In The Workplace Allwork Space

The work of promoting diversity equity and inclusion must be ongoing and far-reaching facilitated by experienced professionals and amplifying the voices of those from marginalized groups.

Diversity equity and inclusion in the workplace. Demand for diversity equity and inclusion in the workplace has exploded due to social political and economic issues according to Josh Bersins Elevating Equity. As a result many mission-driven organizations are signaling their desire to institutionalize workplace DEI practices by launching a staff. Diversity Equity and Inclusion.

Diversity equity and inclusion DEI is becoming an increasingly valued part of the workplace conversation. Therefore a successful diversity equity and inclusion strategy involves accepting and implementing it as a standard practice within the culture training policies skills and every every aspect. DEI in the Workplace.

Diversity equity and inclusion DEI is of crucial importance in the workplace. When it comes to diversity equity and inclusion DEI knowledge of the problem isnt enough. We know that diverse thoughts perspectives and experiences can make each team member a value-add to our company.

Many workplaces today focus on DEI instead of DI. Inclusion means that everyone in. USF Tampa Bay Lightning and Jabil launch business certificate program focusing on workplace diversity equity and inclusion - Florida Trend February 24 2021 Free seven-week online certificate program will emphasize essential business practices and initiatives designed to increase diversity among employees at all levels.

This time however things are different. And now organizational norms have evolved to focus on diversity inclusion and equity. DEI stands for Diversity Equity and Inclusion.

Equity has become just as crucial as DI in several global companies. But we also know that we have much work to do to attract retain and engage talent from diverse backgrounds. In order to begin to see true change well have to roll up our sleeves and get to the messy.

Interdisciplinary thinking focused on turning dialogue into action is more crucial than ever. In the workplace diversity means your staff consists of individuals who bring new perspectives and backgrounds to the table. Research has also found that diversity is backsliding in the US.

But it takes awareness sensitivity and collaboration to improve structural and social impediments and achieve an enriching and humane working environment. Then came diversity inclusion which focused on enabling the voices of those who were marginalized to be heard. Equity in the workplace refers to fair and impartial processes and outcomes for each individual in the company.

The Real Story of Diversity and Inclusion report.

Saturday, January 25, 2020

Equality And Inclusion

Equality is about equal opportunities and protecting people from being discriminated against while diversity is about recognizing respecting and valuing differences in people. Everyone should have a right to equal access to employment and when employed should have equal pay and equal access to training and development.

Equality And Inclusion A Practical Guide To Delivering Results

Bullying harassment and discrimination will be eliminated avoiding legal cases.

Equality and inclusion. When equality diversity and inclusion are present in the workplace businesses can reap the rewards. We will create a working learning social and living environment that will enable all our staff and students to achieve their potential while they experience and celebrate diverse cultures knowledge and identities and are encouraged to make a positive contribution to the city region and beyond. Equality diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

The business will become more successful. The Disability and Inclusion Strategy was approved by the States in November 2013. The difference between equality diversity and inclusion can be explained as below.

Policymakers need access to quality evidence t o understand the nature and extent of. Diversity equality and inclusion. Gender equality and social inclusion GESI is an important part of KSIs work.

Being an international research-led university relies on equality in participation progression and success for all. Dont waste time Get a verified expert to help you with Essay Equality is to treat all as individuals. Taking a data-driven approach that addresses intersectionality So many diversity equality and inclusion initiatives are ineffective because they generalise too much and ignore intersectionality.

EDI Equality Diversity and Inclusion ensures fair treatment and opportunity for all. We understand that equality diversity and inclusion are linked but distinct issues that may need tackling in different ways. Equality legislation As well as our moral and ethical commitment.

Equality diversity and inclusion Inclusion is where those differences are seen as a benefit and where perspectives and differences are shared leading to better decisions. More inclusive public policy is critical if Indonesia is to achieve its poverty reduction targets and continue to grow economically. Meanwhile inclusion refers to an individuals experience within the workplace and in a wider society and the extent to which they.

A corporate communications campaign to make staff aware of equality diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The Premier League Equality Diversity and Inclusion Standard PLEDIS was launched in 2021 to build on the Premier League Equality Standard which was created in 2015. It provides a framework to help Clubs progress equality diversity and inclusion EDI across all areas of their business including the work of their Community Trust or equivalent.

202 For us a commitment to inclusion means ensuring that people do not. Employees will be invested motivated and contented. 11 Explain models of practice that underpin equality diversity and inclusion in own area of responsibility.

Get tickets to DIVERSITY EQUALITY AND INCLUSION taking place 03252021. It aims to eradicate prejudice and discrimination on the basis of an individual or group of individuals protected characteristics. The purpose of the Diversity Equality and Inclusion Charter and Guidelines for Early Childhood Care and Education is to support and empower those working in the sector to explore understand and develop inclusive practices for the benefit of children their families and wider society.

The aim of the Strategy is to improve the quality of life of disabled Islanders and their carers through changing attitudes towards disabled people and carers so that they can be active and engaged socially economically and culturally. It is about ensuring that our practices recognise respect and value difference so that we can all learn from each other. Diversity is concerned with representation and valuing individuals for the different perspectives they have to offer.

Equality diversity and inclusion is central to how we function as a community and as a university providing an equal voice for everyone and actively challenging inequalities and injustice where it exists. Equality means that everybody has the same opportunities and is treated with the same respect. Having taken the prize for Best Animation at.

200 Equality Diversity and Inclusion Principles 201 For us valuing diversity means recognising and valuing difference in its broadest sense. What does equality diversity and inclusion mean. For real change to occur leaders need to be deliberate and specific in the strategies they implement.

To respect race disability age gender religion beliefs culture and sexual orientation. Dear colleague We cordially invite you to the conference Equality and Inclusion in Utrecht the Netherlands on the 28 th and 29 th of November 2019 addressing policies and interventions to increase the educational opportunities social mobility integration and inclusion of groups at risk of marginalization in particular immigrant communities ethnic minorities and low-income groups in Europe. Hopin is your source for engaging events and experiences.

Sunday, May 5, 2019

Why Is Diversity Equity And Inclusion Important

Equity means everyone is given the same treatment opportunities and advancement. Research has shown many benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Diversity Equity Inclusion Dei

Equity means that everyone gets to contribute to the playlist.

Why is diversity equity and inclusion important. Inclusion in the workplace is one of the most important keys to retention. I want to talk a little bit about why focusing on diversity equity and inclusion is more important than ever. First of all the issues that were addressing with this work are not going to go away on their own.

Why diversity matters Diversity is not the end goal but a means to a more inclusive more just and more effective workplace. Providing a more rounded more inclusive culture for your employees is an essential first step in improving overall employee engagement. Equality is about apportioning equal value and equal worth to all irrespective of their protected characteristics socioeconomicsociocultural or other demographic characteristics.

The importance of diversity equity and inclusion in organizations. Diversity Equity and Inclusion are mutually reinforcing principles within an organization. Put simply diversity equity and inclusion is important because people deserve better.

Increased ability to recruit a diverse talent pool. Why is diversity inclusion in the workplace Important. Having a diverse team creates a better company.

54 times higher employee retention. Here are a few. Why is diversity equity and inclusion important.

Inclusion means that everyone has the opportunity to dance. It entails the presence of different types of people from a wide range of identities with different perspectives experiences etc. A company committed to elevating DEI initiatives reflects that commitment in its mission strategies and business practices.

Diversity equity and inclusion matter because they help build a fair society that allows all people to get equal opportunities. Lets now think about why diversity inclusion and equity are important. 3 reasons for elevating your diversity equity and inclusion initiatives.

The benefits of diversity equity inclusion. Equity equality diversity and inclusion are so important especially when you consider the experiences of those that are most marginalised and oppressed. DEI brings together people perspectives and ideas to help create stronger bonds among individuals and stronger organizations.

The moral or social justice case asserts that each person has value to contribute and that we must address barriers and historical factors that have led to unfair conditions for marginalized populations. Diversity means having an organization in which a variety of social and cultural characteristics exist. As powerful as each of its components are on their own DEI is about a more comprehensive operationalized strategy.

Its becoming increasingly clear that having a diverse team creates a better company. Your employees arent a facet of your business they are your business. By definition equity is about fairness.

Key arguments make the case for diversity equity and inclusion. Lets take a closer look to understand what Diversity Equity and Inclusion DEI means. There has been a great deal of research done on the benefits an organization achieves when they embrace diversity inclusion and equity.

One of my favorite definitions of diversity equity and inclusion comes from the Chief Diversity Officer of the University of Michigan Robert Sellers. Companies with high levels of gender and ethnic diversity outperform others by up to 35. Theyre only going to become more highlighted and more intense in this new working world.

Diversity is where everyone is invited to the party. A focus on diversity alone is insufficient because an employees sense of belonging inclusion and experience of fairness equity is critically important. Greater readiness to innovate.

Thursday, March 21, 2019

Inclusion At Work

Subscribe to Inclusion At Work. Inclusion in the workplace is one of the most important keys to retention.

An Evidence Based Framework For Developing Inclusion In The Workplace

It also makes the workplace a personally enriching environment for.

Inclusion at work. The difference between diversity inclusion and belonging is that diversity is the representation of different people in an organization inclusion is ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute to and influence every part and level of a workplace and belonging is ensuring that everyone feels safe and can bring their full. On this weeks LNTV show Dana James-Edwards talks to Kate about diversity and inclusion at work and offers advice for organisations introducing DI programmes. Cultivating a culture of inclusion and diversity is one of the best ways to develop open-mindedness at work.

Inclusion will ensure that everyone feels valued and importantly adds value. Inclusion is where peoples differences are valued and used to enable everyone to thrive at work. An inclusive working environment is one in which everyone feels that they belong without having to conform that their contribution matters and they are able to perform to their full potential no matter their background identity or circumstances.

Ad Read Janes Story To Learn A Solution To See Better Nails Within Two Weeks. Perspectives on LGBT working lives CIPD research highlights the key barriers and enablers to help people professionals improve LGBT workplace inclusion While workplace inclusivity is fundamental to good fair work and positive employee outcomes many organisations have been slow to make headway in this area. Get all the latest greatest posts delivered straight to your inbox.

The Power of Inclusion Feeling including is a key aspect of human life. Now in its second iteration DCA Suncorp and Novartis have joined forces to once again investigate two questions. Building an inclusive culture is the shared responsibility.

Everyone treats everyone else with respect. When employees dont feel that their ideas presence or contributions are truly valued or taken seriously by their organization they will eventually leave. Ad Read Janes Story To Learn A Solution To See Better Nails Within Two Weeks.

In 2017 DCA and Suncorp partnered to create a national InclusionWork Index to track the state of inclusion in Australian workplaces over time. Heres what an inclusive work culture looks like. Inclusion should be central to the operations and direction of any business that wants to invest in it.

Inclusion is the culture in which the mix of people can come to work feel comfortable and confident to be themselves work in a way that suits them and delivers your business needs. Good fair and inclusive work is imperative for positive societal and workplace outcomes which is why the CIPDs core purpose is to champion better work and working lives. Debbie Carter is stepping down from her role as editor at Training Journal after 24 years and talks to Nigel about the changes she has seen and her hopes for the future of the.

The understanding of the differences among diversity equity and inclusion have become blurred probably because it has become common to refer to any work in. Stay up to date. Good work and inclusion go hand in hand the person who has a positive experience at work can tell us a great deal about how inclusive their workplaces are.

While diversity training and equitable values policies and structures are essential efforts need to be made at both an organizational and a team level to build an inclusive culture.

Monday, November 26, 2018

Diversity And Inclusion Activities In The Workplace

Set the goal of activities to be both increased interpersonal understanding and increased awareness of invisible things like privilege not either or in order to get the most from your time with the fewest possible side effects. If youre ready to shift your focus to this important topic a great place to start is with some diversity games for the workplace.

5 Diversity And Inclusion Activities To Build Belonging On Teams Officevibe

Michelle Kim the CEO of Awaken who is passionately changing the face of diversity and inclusion efforts within organizations offers three essential tips for leaders to build inclusive workspaces.

Diversity and inclusion activities in the workplace. This includes doing things such as ensuring that all job descriptions are gender-neutral conduct blind screenings celebrate holiday and events for minorities and checking the reading material in the lobby of the office. To mitigate the consequences of mismanaging the cultural diversity of your workplace try incorporating diversity activities as part of your next diversity and inclusion training session. Diversity and inclusion activities in the workplace are an important aspect of fostering a positive company culture.

HRDQ offers a wide selection of diversity inclusion training materials from assessments to comprehensive workshops games and more. Encourage your manager to build better and more cohesive teams with diversity and inclusion activities at work. The difference between diversity inclusion and belonging is that diversity is the representation of different people in an organization inclusion is ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute to and influence every part and level of a workplace and belonging is ensuring that everyone feels safe and can bring their full unique selves to work.

Diversity and Inclusion activities in the workplace As a manager you should start taking up discussions on diversity and inclusivity. But it can be difficult to start conversations on this topic. That is the reason it is much easier to rather conduct activities to demonstrate your point.

Ad Search Diversity Inclusion Strategy. Introduce diversity and inclusion early on in the employee life cycle. View our full Diversity Inclusion.

Get Results from 6 Engines at Once. These engaging and insightful activities can be an effective way to start the conversation on diversity and inclusion within your work environment. Incorporating Diversity Equity and Inclusion into workplace behavior is in the interest of all employees for establishing a better experience of work.

There are many other ways that a company can help improve its diversity and inclusion with their associates. See people not just workers Theres a tendency to think that our identities in and out of the workplace are separate but theyre not. Get Results from 6 Engines at Once.

Here are some top diversity games from HRDQ and other activities that can serve as great ice-breakers or energizers in your training sessions. During employee onboarding clearly communicate why your company cares about DI how you define it and steps youre. This can be anything from going bowling as a team to doing a full company retreat weekend.

A great way to do this is with team bonding activities. By organizing activities that actively include others and facilitates mutual understanding and respect youll form an engaging inclusive workforce boosting productivity employee retention revenue and more in the process. Ad Search Diversity Inclusion Strategy.

Most are simple but will take commitment. Instead of starting with the intent to have an activity about DI thoughtful leaders and diversity champions should begin with the end in mind. Through a variety of activities it is possible to promote such behaviors and raise awareness of the importance of maintaining them.