Barriers and drivers of the relationship between gender diversity and innovation in organizations

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5585/2025.26351

Keywords:

gender diversity, innovation, thematic analysis

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze the relationship between gender diversity and innovation in organizations by exploring its barriers and drivers.

Methodological Approach: An exploratory qualitative investigation commenced with a literature review and thematic analysis of relevant publications located in the Web of Science (WoS) database. The identification of barriers and drivers, associated with the analysis of their influence and manifestation within the organizational context, was demonstrated through the identification of emerging topics obtained through the review and the elements highlighted in the literature, which were integrated to form a thematic map.

Originality/Relevance: This work contributes by exploring how gender diversity relates to innovation. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of managerial strategies and public policies to promote gender equality and stimulate organizational creativity.

Main Results: The results indicate that organizations with greater gender diversity tend to be more innovative. The identification of barriers and drivers contributed to guiding the development of a thematic map that orients strategies to foster innovation in companies.

Theoretical Contributions: This study contributes to organizational theory by interpreting the relationship between gender diversity and innovation. In addition, it highlights the need for inclusive policies and management practices that promote equal opportunities.

Managerial Contributions: The findings have practical implications for managers and policymakers. The implementation of gender equality policies and the promotion of an inclusive work environment to maximize the innovative potential of organizations are recommended.

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Author Biographies

Adriana Kirley Santiago Monteiro, Federal University of Piauí, PRODEMA, Teresina, PI, Brazil

PhD student in Development and Environment at PRODEMA/UFPI. Master's in Public Management from UFPI. Nurse at the University Hospital of Piauí (HUPI/EBSERH).

Fabiana dos Santos Lima, Instituto Federal do Piauí - IFPI, Teresina, PI, Brazil

Master in Public Management from UFPI. Lawyer from Faculdade Santo Agostinho (FSA). Administrative Technician in Education at IFPI.

Rafael Fernandes de Mesquita, Instituto Federal do Piauí - IFPI, Teresina, PI, Brazil

PhD in Administration. Professor at the Federal Institute of Piauí - IFPI. Lecturer in the Postgraduate Program in Public Policy (UFPI).

Eulálio Gomes Campelo Filho, Federal University of Piauí, Teresina, PI, Brazil

PhD in Business Engineering (Administration) from the Universitaet Karlsruhe, Germany. Professor at the Federal University of Piauí (UFPI).

Fátima Regina Ney Matos, Instituto Superior Miguel Torga - ISMT, Coimbra, Portugal

Doctorate in Business Administration from the Federal University of Pernambuco. Lecturer at the Miguel Torga Higher Institute, Portugal.

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10.04.2025

How to Cite

Monteiro, A. K. S., Lima, F. dos S., Mesquita, R. F. de, Campelo Filho, E. G., & Matos, F. R. N. (2025). Barriers and drivers of the relationship between gender diversity and innovation in organizations. International Journal of Innovation, 13(1), e26351. https://doi.org/10.5585/2025.26351

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Vol. 13 No. 1 (2025): Jan./Apr.

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Copyright (c) 2025 Adriana Kirley Santiago Monteiro, Fabiana dos Santos Lima, Rafael Fernandes de Mesquita, Eulálio Gomes Campelo Filho, Fátima Regina Ney Matos

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