Illuminating the gender divide in public sector innovation: Evidence from the Australian public service
van Acker,Wouter Wynen,Jan Op de Beeck,Sophie
van Acker,Wouter
Wynen,Jan
Op de Beeck,Sophie
Abstract
Like many other aspects of the work environment, “innovation” is a gendered term that creates a barrier to women taking part in innovation processes and, in particular, in male-dominated and “masculine” industries. This article looks into the role of gender, as well as other potential determinants, in explaining differences in the perceived innovation climate for public sector employees. This innovation climate depicts the opportunities and support employees receive with creating, promoting, and implementing innovative ideas in the workplace. Even though the public sector is often regarded as a more “feminine” work environment, our results show that women feel less encouraged in the innovation process when compared with men. Moreover, length of service and red tape appear to have a detrimental effect on individuals’ experiences of the innovation climate.
Description
Date
2018-06
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Volume Title
Publisher
Research Projects
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Keywords
public sector innovation, gender, innovation climate, red tape, length of service, SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Citation
van Acker, W, Wynen, J & Op de Beeck, S 2018, 'Illuminating the gender divide in public sector innovation : Evidence from the Australian public service', Public Personnel Management, vol. 47, no. 2, pp. 175-194. https://doi.org/10.1177/0091026017747299