Why is this a problem?
Standards work is often very technical and complex, and assumes people already know how things work. When information is too technical, it is hard for newcomers or people without a technical background to participate. Efforts to diversify participation need to recognize that people have different levels of experience and knowledge. Without proper support, many people will be left out.
Ways to address the barrier
Be flexible with meeting time and timelines
Action for Facilitating , Preparing for committees , and Organizing
Empower chairpersons and facilitators to manage conflict
Action for Facilitating , Organizing , and Training and knowledge building
Ensure all documents are accessible
Action for Documents
Help with information management
Action for Workload and Facilitating
Host onboarding meetings before committee work begins
Action for Preparing for committees
Plan for regular check-ins with new members
Action for Preparing for committees
Provide a welcome package for new members
Action for Preparing for committees
Provide diverse, accessible knowledge-building opportunities
Action for Training and knowledge building
Provide guidance and ongoing support to new members
Action for Preparing for committees