Adapt the proven Norwegian solution: it's a pragmatic move to bettering corporate performance.

• Author: Bolliger, Linda K.
• Position: BOARD DIVERSITY

Nations such as Norway are using legislation to successfully increase the number of women sitting in corporate boardrooms. Further research indicates that while many of these company bottom lines increased, their stock prices went down. The latter fact was attributed to investor disbelief that a board quota would have a positive affect on profits. They were wrong!

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Norway's experience suggests that its investment in pushing the diversity envelope forward via a board quota illustrates two dynamics: 1) Women's perspectives, when included in boardrooms, are often responsible for increased revenue; and 2) investor acceptance of the first dynamic will inform future investment strategies.

Hence my position is for America to adapt the proven Norwegian...