INCLUSION MANAGEMENT CONCEPTUALIZATION: AN INSIGHT FROM TELECOMMUNICATION SECTOR of PAKISTAN

Abstract

The study explored the definition of inclusion management at both the individual and organizational levels in Pakistani context. The objectives of the study were to explore the definition of inclusion, the elements essential for an inclusive setting and the experiences of employees around inclusion management practices. The sample size consisted of thirty-two respondents comprising of management and employees from two leading telecom organizations in Pakistan to gain detailed insight from the organizations who were among the pioneers to introduce this concept in the telecom industry. The findings of the study showed similarities between existing conceptualizations of inclusion as well as some unique attributes pertaining to Pakistani context. The definition of inclusion management was broader than existing conceptualizations as the dimensions of tolerance and empathy emerged during the research. Additionally elements such as respect, presence of adequate infrastructure and provision of necessary tools also embodied the conceptualization of inclusion that manifested definition of inclusion in Pakistani context. The study also uncovered the reasons behind introducing the strategy for inclusion along with the specific initiatives introduced by organizations to create an inclusive setting. The findings revealed that the concept of inclusion was much developed in A1 than A2. Overall, this study sheds light on the understanding and management of inclusion specific to Pakistani context and lays the foundation for future research.