Perceptions of Gender Diversity's impact on mood in software development teams

TL;DR

This study explores how gender diversity influences mood and atmosphere in software development teams, highlighting positive effects of gender differentiation and proposing soft approaches to reduce gender inequality.

Contribution

It provides empirical evidence that gender-diversified teams have a more pleasant atmosphere and discusses effective soft strategies to address gender discrimination in IT.

Findings

Gender-diversified teams have a more pleasant atmosphere.

Gender discrimination still negatively impacts the working environment.

Soft approaches like training and workshops are preferred to reduce gender inequality.

Abstract

Recent studies show that gender diversity in IT teams has a positive impact on the software development process. However, there is still a great gender inequality. The aim of our study was to examine how the working atmosphere depends on the gender differentiation of IT teams. The analysis of the results of the interviews and questionnaires showed that the atmosphere in gender-differentiated teams is more pleasant compared to purely male ones. The paper also discusses the problem of gender discrimination, which, according to the results of the study, unfortunately still exists and affects the working atmosphere. Finally, we looked at ways to reduce the gender inequity, where it turned out that soft approaches such as dedicated training, workshops to show the human face of the IT industry are preferred.