Free diversity self-assessment test from IU and Charta der Vielfalt for companies available now
DEI tool supports diversity, equality and inclusion in companies
Self-assessment test for companies from IU International University of Applied Sciences and the Diversity Charter (Charta der Vielfalt) supports diversity, equality and inclusion.
- Self-assessment test for all company sizes is now available, free of charge and easy to use.
- IU Professor Sonja Würtemberger: “Now is exactly the right time for us to demonstrate a clear stance on diversity, equality, participation, and inclusion! ”
- Joint project between IU International University of Applied Sciences and the Diversity Charter (Charta der Vielfalt), supported by D² - Think Tank Diversity.
Berlin/Erfurt, May 19, 2025. With the “Diversity Maturity Model”, IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU), Germany's largest university, and the Diversity Charter (Charta der Vielfalt), Germany's largest employer initiative for promoting diversity in the workplace, are introducing a joint tool that supports companies in systematically classifying their diversity measures through a self-assessment. The model was developed by IU professors Sonja Würtemberger and Katharina-Maria Rehfeld together with Heiko Holz (research assistant), as well as Corina Christen and Şeyma Erdi from the Diversity Charter.
The Diversity Maturity Model, available as of today, is the first freely available model of its kind nationwide. The model is distinguished by two features: Despite the considerable development effort, it is free of charge, and despite the complexity of the topic, it is very easy to use. The model is designed to help companies in Germany assess their current status in terms of DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) and define practical steps toward greater diversity and participation. It is suitable for all types and sizes of organisations: micro and small enterprises, medium-sized companies, and large corporations.
Diversity and participation: “Now more than ever!”
“For us, now is exactly the right time to demonstrate a clear stance on diversity, equality and participation,” says IU Professor Sonja Würtemberger in response to the US president’s order to cancel DEI programmes – a development that also affects German companies.
Katharina-Maria Rehfeld , also a professor at IU and co-developer of the maturity model, emphasises: "But attitude alone is not enough for us: With the radar, we are giving companies in Germany the tools they need to take action so that they can strengthen their own DEI efforts instead of abandoning them."
“The Diversity Maturity Model provides international companies like ours with scientifically sound and objective recommendations for promoting an inclusive work environment,” says Stephan Schütz, DEI Manager at Daimler Truck AG, who was part of the project team that developed the model. “The link to the employee lifecycle in particular offers clear practical relevance. The assessment shows where companies are well positioned and where there is room for improvement.”
"The Diversity Maturity Model is a unique guide for companies in Germany – practical, multi-layered, and scientifically sound," adds Dr Eva Voß , Chair of the Board of the Diversity Charter. "It enables precise self-assessment and will make it easier for many to strategically structure and effectively develop their DEI work. I am very much looking forward to applying the model in my daily professional life in the future."
A study by IU on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace shows that such corporate commitment is also a decisive factor in employees' career choices: 75.1 per cent of tomorrow's skilled workers expect potential employers to implement diversity and inclusion measures in the workplace. For 38.2 per cent, equal opportunities are among the top three reasons for choosing a company.
Diversity Maturity Model: Project launch in summer 24, go live in May 25
The Diversity Maturity Model is based on a total of 24 qualitative interviews that the two IU researchers conducted with DEI experts from companies after the project launched last summer. The project was supplemented by a comprehensive literature review to scientifically substantiate the interviews and a multi-stage validation of the results by experts from the field. The methodological approach is described in detail in the recently published paper . Starting today, companies can self-assess the maturity of their DEI efforts in a free, open-access assessment.
The model was programmed by D2 - Denkfabrik Diversität , a Würzburg-based startup that, in addition to consulting services, also develops digital tools for diversity management in the public and private sectors. The result of this collaboration is a practical maturity model for diversity management in companies.
When diversity wins, Germany wins
At German Diversity Day on May 27, the Diversity Maturity Model will be part of the live event hosted by the Diversity Charter in Berlin. Under the motto "When Diversity Wins, Germany Wins," the Diversity Charter is creating a day of action for companies and institutions across Germany for the 13th time to demonstrate their commitment to diversity and a respectful, prejudice-free workplace. Project manager Şeyma Erdi of the Diversity Charter, and IU Professor Würtemberger together with Heiko Holz will be present at this year's live event in Berlin and will provide insights into the model's development process.
For interviews and background discussions, please contact us at: presse@iu.org and presse@charta-der-vielfalt.de
Test the Diversity Maturity Model yourself now
ABOUT THE CHARTER OF DIVERSITY
The Diversity Charter is the largest employer initiative promoting diversity in companies and institutions in Germany. It advocates for a respectful and prejudice-free working environment in which all employees – regardless of age, ethnic origin and nationality, gender and gender identity, physical and mental abilities, religion and ideology, sexual orientation, and social background – can develop their potential. Learn more at: https://www.charta-der-vielfalt.de/
With nearly 130,000 students, IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU) is the largest university in Germany. The private, state-recognised educational institution, based in Erfurt, began teaching in 2000 and now has 37 campuses. IU stands for maximum flexibility in study: whether through dual study, distance learning or on campus – students from over 160 nations tailor their educational path to suit their individual circumstances. With more than 200 degree programmes at bachelor’s, master’s and MBA level, IU imparts practical skills. Innovative learning concepts foster targeted, future-proof skills for an increasingly AI-driven world of work. A modern, digitally supported learning environment and the use of artificial intelligence enable effective, personalised learning. As a pioneer in this field, IU has developed its own digital learning companion, ‘Syntea’, which has been in use since 2023. A network of over 15,000 companies – including Motel One, Vodafone, AWO and Deutsche Bahn – makes IU a strong partner in the training of skilled workers and consistently links academic teaching with practical experience. Further information at: iu.org
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