One of the most effective ways to improve your understanding of the challenges facing under-represented groups – and then to support them – this is by working closely with community and support groups and initiatives. In games we are fortunate to have some brilliant and important organisations like Women in Games, Out Making Games, Limit Break, BAME in Games, Autistica Play and, of course, Ukie’s #RaiseTheGame. Here are some reasons why it’s worth considering working with them.
Implementing Flexibility: Strategies for Success
At the heart of a successful studio is a team of dedicated, content, and motivated individuals. To nurture this team, studios must step up and create environments that not only recognise but also cater to individual needs. By championing a flexible work environment, studios not only elevate their brand but also lay down the foundation for prolonged success, innovation, and, most importantly, staff retention. In the busy world we live in, adaptability is key.
Access to Untapped Talent Pools
Community groups often serve as magnets for talented individuals from under-represented backgrounds. By collaborating with these organisations, studios can access an incredible reservoir of untapped talent. This is beneficial for studios seeking fresh perspectives, which can lead to innovative game designs and narratives.
Credibility and Authentic Engagement
Partnering with recognised community organizations lends studios credibility in their diversity and inclusion efforts. Instead of attempting to understand and cater to under-represented groups from the outside, studios can gain direct insights and knowledge by working hand-in-hand with these groups. This kind of genuine engagement ensures that studios’ initiatives are authentic and not just superficial gestures.
Feedback Loops and Continuous Improvement
Community groups can provide studios with valuable feedback, helping them refine their products and services. For instance, Autistica Play can offer insights into how neurodiverse players engage with games, informing studios on potential areas of improvement. This iterative feedback can lead to games that are more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.
Amplifying Industry-wide Change
When studios support and amplify the missions of organisations like Women in Games or Out Making Games, they contribute to industry-wide change. These partnerships spotlight the importance of inclusivity and can inspire other studios to take similar actions. Over time, such collective actions can shift the industry’s norms, making it more inclusive at its core.
Building Stronger and More Inclusive Communities
Games communities thrive when they’re diverse and inclusive. By supporting community organisations, studios send a strong message to their player base that they’re committed to creating environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. This can enhance player loyalty and foster a positive community culture where everyone feels they belong.
Giving Back to the Communities
Many community organisations operate on limited budgets, relying on grants, donations, and partnerships to fund their initiatives. When studios provide financial support or collaborate on projects, they ensure these groups can continue their invaluable work. This support goes beyond just monetary contributions—it’s about investing in the future of the games industry.
The importance of studios partnering with community organisations cannot be overstated. Such collaborations offer a myriad of benefits, from tapping into fresh talent to gaining authentic insights and fostering genuine inclusivity.
