WISE gender equity framework
A structured, evidence‑led approach to building inclusive STEM workplaces.
The WISE gender equity framework underpins much of our work, providing organisations with a clear, practical way to understand, measure and improve equity for women in STEM.
It brings structure and consistency to EDI activity, helping organisations move beyond intent and focus on what drives measurable progress.
What is the framework?
The WISE gender equity framework is an evidence‑based model designed to support organisations to:
- Understand where barriers exist
- Prioritise action where it will have the greatest impact
- Track progress over time with clarity and confidence
It aligns EDI activity to long‑term outcomes, ensuring work is focused, strategic and grounded in real insight.
The five pillars of the framework
The framework is built around five core areas that shape women’s experiences in the workplace.
Data
Understand representation. Inform strategy.
Data is the foundation for effective action.
This pillar focuses on how organisations:
- Track the representation of women across the workforce
- Use data to inform decision‑making
- Understand why women leave and what support is needed
Good data enables better decisions, and more targeted, effective interventions.
Attraction
Expanding access and opportunity into STEM.
Attraction is about more than recruitment.
It includes:
- Inclusive recruitment practices
- Outreach and early careers engagement
- Support for returners
The goal is to make STEM more accessible and appealing and increase women’s participation across the sector.
Progression
Creating clear, fair pathways to leadership.
Progression ensures women can grow, develop and succeed.
This pillar focuses on:
- Career pathways and promotion processes
- Access to development opportunities
- Removing barriers to advancement
Clarity, transparency and fairness are key to building a high‑performing workforce.
Retention
Supporting women to stay and thrive.
Retention is about creating environments where long‑term careers are possible.
This includes:
- Flexible and family‑friendly policies
- Health and wellbeing support
- Workplace practices that enable balance and sustainability
When women feel supported, organisations retain skills, knowledge and experience.
Engagement
Building culture, voice and accountability.
Engagement drives cultural change.
This pillar focuses on:
- Leadership accountability
- Employee voice and visibility
- Internal communication and shared learning
When organisations listen, act and lead with intent, meaningful change follows.
How do I use the WISE gender equity framework?
The WISE gender equity framework is designed to be practical and actionable.
To support implementation, we offer diagnostic tools that help organisations:
- Benchmark current performance
- Identify priority areas for action
- Track progress over time
- Demonstrate accountability and impact
These tools place evidence at the centre of EDI activity, ensuring decisions are informed, targeted and effective.
Diagnostic tools
HR diagnostic
A structured tool designed to explore key EDI themes across policies, processes and workplace practices.
It helps organisations:
- Assess current approaches
- Identify gaps and opportunities
- Generate insight to inform strategy
Suitable for organisations across the STEM sector, regardless of size or structure.
Employee diagnostic
A deeper exploration of workplace culture, employee experience and wellbeing.
This includes:
- Data collection and insight gathering
- Facilitated workshops
- Practical recommendations for next steps
Each diagnostic is tailored to your organisation to ensure relevance and impact.
Ready to get started?
If you’re looking to understand where you stand, and what to do next, the WISE gender equity framework provides a clear starting point.
Request a WISE gender equity diagnostic or get in touch at WISE@theiet.org to explore how it could work for your organisation.