Chapter 15. What can organisations learn from kaupapa Māori research?

Managing diversity, equality, and inclusion in organisational settings is a complicated and multi-faceted issue. One area that is particularly challenging is ensuring that the perspectives of minorities and marginalised groups are heard during decision-making processes. Drawing on the concept of kaupapa Māori research (research based on the philosophies of the indigenous people of New Zealand, the Māori) this chapter argues that in order to fully capture the voices of all those in an organisation, it is critical to be aware of the varied cultural values present in the diverse mix of individuals. This chapter will define kaupapa Māori research and use two examples to show how principles of kaupapa Māori research can help us understand how research can be carried out to better capture the voices of marginalised groups in organisations. These principles include concerns of initiation, benefits, representation, legitimation, and accountability. The breadth of voices in an organisation is more likely to be completely captured when research designs prioritise these principles.