Towards a confluence: disability inclusion and organizational change

Abstract

Purpose Despite increased attention towards workplace disability in global and local development agenda, mainstream inclusion of persons with disability continues to be a challenge for most organizations. This paper aims to explore how organizations can be facilitated for adapting to the need and responsibility for change, towards evolving into disability inclusive workplaces. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses an inter-domain approach by linking organization change and development models to Indian indigenous disability management literature. Findings This review indicates that in comparison with the other dimensions of diversity, disability brings unique challenges that need a differentiated management approach. Further, it finds a strong base for organizations to approach disability management as a strategic and transformative change initiative, aligning with some of the proven change and organization development (OD) interventions. Research limitations/implications This paper draws implications for disability management and highlights the need for a practice perspective towards disability management and OD. Originality/value This paper provides an integrated view of critical factors influencing workplace disability management and OD.