Cultural Competence Assessment

Intercultural Development Inventory®

Based on the Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity by Dr. Milton Bennett, the IDI® measures an individual or group’s level of intercultural sensitivity along the Intercultural Development Continuum®.

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Cultural Competence Assessment

What is cultural competence?

The Intercultural Development Continuum® theorizes that individuals progress through phases of development in their understanding of the complexity of cultural similarities and differences. Each position in the continuum represents an increasingly complex understanding of cultural differences, allowing increasingly sophisticated and engaging experiences with people of other cultures.

Understanding

Cultural competence includes understanding, appreciating, and effectively interacting with people from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. It involves developing knowledge and skills to effectively navigate cultural differences and communicate with people from diverse backgrounds. 

Self-awareness

To be culturally competent requires awareness of one's own cultural biases and assumptions, and understanding how they may influence interpersonal interactions. One must also be willing to learn about and show respect towards different cultural norms and practices and adapt their behaviour accordingly.

A key skillset

Cultural competence is increasingly recognized as a key skill in a globalized and diverse world. It is important for promoting equity and inclusion, reducing discrimination and bias, and improving outcomes for individuals and communities – particularly in healthcare, education, social work, and business where intercultural interactions are common.

Culture competence makes an impact

Why use the IDI®

The IDI has been subjected to rigorous statistical testing.
It is arguably the most thorough and reliable analysis of its kind and has been lauded by most subject experts. 

Measure progress & take action

The IDI shows an individual or group’s progression along a continuum of cross-cultural competence, capturing both mindset and skillset.

Results are actionable. Each person receives a customized Intercultural Development Plan (IDP) with activities and reflections that support growth through cooperative conversations, not judgment or resistance.

Cultural Competence Assessment

Guiding you from assessment to implementation

1

Complete IDI questionnaire

Each participant completes the 50-item questionnaire, available in 17 languages.

2

Cultural competence training & group debrief

Join a 1-hour debrief of team results, followed by a 2-hour instructor-led session on cultural competence.

3

Individual Debrief

Get your full profile, IDI scores, and a 6-month development plan tailored to your growth.

Includes a 75-minute session with a qualified IDI Assessor.

4

Personalized coaching

Work with a certified coach in monthly 1-hour sessions to explore your Intercultural Development Plan.

Access resources and reflect on your progress. Optional*

Take the first step

Start your IDI journey and discover your personalized path for growth.
Your results will guide the next steps based on your unique development goals.

Leading with Cultural Competence

The value of IDI for leaders

Leaders who understand cultural competence are better equipped to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, communicate effectively, attract top talent, drive innovation, and succeed in a globalized world.

Diversity & inclusion

Leaders who understand cultural competence foster more diverse and inclusive workplaces, where employees feel valued and supported regardless of their background.

Communication

Leaders who understand cultural competence communicate more effectively with employees, clients, and stakeholders from diverse cultural backgrounds, leading to better relationships and outcomes.

Talent acquisition

Leaders who prioritize cultural competence attract a more diverse pool of job candidates, increasing the talent and perspectives available to the organization.

Innovation

Leaders who understand cultural competence can leverage diverse perspectives to drive innovation and creativity in the organization.

Globalization

In an increasingly globalized business environment, cultural competence is essential for leaders to navigate and succeed in diverse markets and communities.

Expand your horizons

Start your cultural competence journey with an open mind. Schedule your IDI assessments today!

Consulting Services that accelerate DEI progress

Custom crisis communication toolkit
DEI strategy creation rooted in purpose & business outcomes
Guidance to help you plan your DEI content calendar
Policy & document review
Employment equity support
Focus groups on internal policies & practices
“At Hudson’s Bay, we believe that the diversity in our workforce makes us stronger and with our commitment to learning and growing, we can continue to break down barriers. Our partnership with Diversio will help us make improvements to better serve the diverse needs of all our Store Associates and our customers.”
Wayne Drummond
President | Hudson's Bay
30,000+ Employees

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Expand your horizons

Start your cultural competence journey with an open mind. Schedule your IDI assessments today!

Resources

Beyond Annual Surveys: How Pulse Surveys Drive Real-Time Change
Young woman and man in apprenticeships wearing coveralls and safety glasses, working together in a UK technical training facility. Featured in blog by Diversio UK.
Social Mobility in Hiring: How UK Companies Can Measure & Improve Equity in Recruitment
Businesswoman reviewing legal documents at desk with Lady Justice statue and gavel, symbolizing employment equity compliance.
The Rising Cost of Non-Compliance: Navigating Employment Equity in 2025

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