#WeAreDiversity: RISC Software GmbH Receives Certification for Its Diversity Management

Diversity as the Foundation for Innovation

For RISC Software GmbH, diversity is not just a trend, but the foundation for innovation: Different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds improve our work and strengthen our solutions. Diversity management and inclusion are not viewed as peripheral “soft” issues, but as tangible factors for success: Satisfied employees, a supportive work environment, and an open corporate culture are essential for attracting talent and pioneers—and make the company a sought-after partner for R&D projects.

RISC Software GmbH has been successfully active in this field for 15 years. The #WeAreDiversity process received technical support from Beatrix Czipetits (co-pilotin.at). Under the #WeAreDiversity brand, she implements the process along with a toolkit that enables organizations to implement and further develop diversity management in a structured and sustainable manner, as well as to optimally prepare for potential certification of the organization in accordance with the diversity management standard. The comprehensive Gender Equality Plan also served as a foundation for the next step in the certification process according to ÖNORM S 2501 by TÜV AUSTRIA. This plan is continuously refined in collaboration with the equal opportunity officers, the Gender & Diversity Task Force, and management.

“For us, diversity and inclusion are not just a formality, but the key to innovation and sustainable business development. I am pleased that, with the implementation of #WeAreDiversity and our certification under ÖNORM S 2501, we can now demonstrate what we have been practicing for years. My sincere thanks go to all employees and managers who have actively joined us on this journey,” says Wolfgang Freiseisen, Managing Director of RISC Software GmbH.

The Path to Certification

Preparations for certification began last year. As part of the FFG-funded RISCversity 4.0 project, the #WeAreDiversity process was successfully implemented. The process included a comprehensive self-assessment and a workshop to refine the vision and strategy. An action plan for the coming years was also developed. Numerous employees and managers were actively involved in the #WeAreDiversity process. A clear commitment to equality and diversity at all levels of the company was a cornerstone of this effort. The #WeAreDiversity process received professional guidance from Beatrix Czipetits, an expert in diversity management and organizational development (co-pilotin.at). Subsequently, RISC Software GmbH’s diversity management system was certified by TÜV AUSTRIA in accordance with ÖNORM S 2501.

“RISC Software GmbH demonstrates how diversity management really works: not as a marketing promise, but as a strategically embedded mindset that is lived out from within. What the team has developed here together is a true model of excellence for the technological research sector in Austria,” explains Beatrix Czipetits, diversity management expert at co-pilotin.at

An issue that affects everyone

The driving force behind these internal processes is a dedicated team led by Human Relations Manager Elisa Neuhauser, along with the two equal opportunity officers, Christina Hochleitner and Yvonne Marneth. Together with the Gender & Diversity Task Force—composed of employees from all departments—concrete measures were developed: ranging from gender-sensitive recruiting processes and accessible work environments to regular workshops and internal networking events.

“We wanted to ensure that diversity isn’t just something mentioned in mission statements, but is tangible in the day-to-day work of each and every one of us. This certification confirms that we’re on the right track—and at the same time serves as an incentive to become even better,” says Elisa Neuhauser, Human Relations Manager at RISC Software GmbH.

“Preparing for certification was an intensive but immensely valuable process for all of us. We were fortunate to receive expert and dedicated support from Beatrix Czipetits—without her professional guidance, we wouldn’t have been able to articulate so many things so clearly. And it was impressive to see how many colleagues and managers got involved and helped shape the process. This shows that the issue has truly taken root at the heart of our company,” adds Christina Hochleitner, Equal Opportunity Officer at RISC Software GmbH.

“Diversity thrives when many people get involved. Through workshops, discussions, and collaborative development processes, we’ve seen how much energy and creativity are unleashed when people truly feel heard and included. This certification is our shared success,” said Yvonne Marneth, Equal Opportunity Officer at RISC Software GmbH.

“During its initial certification process, RISC Software GmbH demonstrated a well-established and exemplary diversity management program. As the first IT company to be certified by TÜV AUSTRIA in accordance with ÖNORM S 2501 for diversity management, RISC Software GmbH ranks among the industry’s pioneers who actively embrace their responsibility and embed diversity as a strategic success factor. This certification officially confirms the company’s comprehensive commitment to equal opportunity, diversity, and an inclusive corporate culture. RISC Software GmbH is thus sending a strong signal of active responsibility and innovative human resources and organizational development within the Austrian IT landscape,” At the certificate award ceremony, TÜV AUSTRIA auditor Eva Stockley recognized the outstanding achievement.

Outlook: Further Strengthening Diversity

For RISC Software GmbH, certification is not an end in itself, but rather a milestone on an ongoing journey. As part of the #WeAreDiversity process, specific strategic goals have already been defined for the coming years that will further strengthen the company’s commitment to diversity.