buildJUSTLY

Technology participation is not equitable in the US. 1 in 5 households do not have a connected laptop or desktop. A further 1 in 7 households are limited digital participants. Combined, this participation gap impacts 1 in 3 American (43M) households with a disproportionate effect on lower-income, Blacks, and Hispanics. We feel there is a 'glitch in the matrix' - a flaw in how tech products are built is perpetuating systemic injustice. Bias in the data used by tech companies to guide product decisions favors elite heavy users. Less engaged users and nonparticipants have little to no representation. The lack of diverse voices risks the formation of an echo chamber where technology products become over-optimized for elite heavy users. Products may even develop exclusionary behavior preventing participation of non-elites leading to lower participation overall. Technology was envisioned to be the great equalizer, to equitably better the lives of all people. We believe this vision is still achievable. We call on the makers of tech products to be more intentful in engaging and servicing our diverse population. It starts by building a Customer Diversity and Inclusion plan. Building a Customer Diversity and Inclusion (CD&I) Plan 1. Understand product participation 2. Engage and listen to the less-engaged and nonparticipants 3. Improve your business, product, and marketing The buildJUSTLY nonprofit is championing this effort and looking for partners to help us increase technology participation equitably and sustainably.