Machine Learning Job Description Diversity Calibration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Organizations face challenges in achieving workforce diversity due to biases in job descriptions that discourage under-represented groups from applying, particularly in fields like computer engineering where there is a talent shortage and strong competition for limited candidates.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing machine learning and natural language processing to identify and substitute linguistic expressions in job descriptions, making them more appealing to under-represented groups by determining semantically similar qualifications that are less favorable to well-represented classes, thereby attracting a more diverse pool of applicants.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional job descriptions are used, then hiring process is simple and quick, but workforce diversity is reduced due to biases in job descriptions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkforce diversityVSAvoidjob description calibration system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual job description review and bias detection with an automated machine learning system that uses natural language processing to analyze and calibrate job descriptions. The ML model automatically identifies biased language patterns and suggests neutral alternatives, substituting the mechanical process of human review with an automated computational system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a machine learning calibration system as an intermediary between the hiring process and job descriptions. This intermediary component analyzes job descriptions for biases before they are published, acting as a mediator that transforms biased language into neutral language without directly altering the core hiring objectives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Quantity of substance

If job descriptions are calibrated for diversity, then under-represented groups are attracted, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediverse applicant poolVSAvoidjob description calibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by calibrating job descriptions before they are published and before the hiring process begins. The machine learning system proactively identifies and corrects biases in advance, ensuring that job descriptions are diversity-friendly from the outset rather than requiring post-publication modifications or manual revisions during the hiring process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables self-service by allowing the machine learning system to automatically analyze and calibrate job descriptions without requiring extensive human intervention. The system autonomously detects biased language, generates calibration suggestions, and can automatically apply corrections, reducing the time and effort needed for manual review and approval processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If biased language is removed from job descriptions, then diversity improves, but job qualification accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkforce diversityVSAvoidqualification representation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by systematically modifying the linguistic parameters of job descriptions - specifically changing biased word choices to neutral alternatives while preserving the core meaning. The machine learning model adjusts parameters such as word selection, tone, and phrasing to eliminate biases while maintaining the accuracy of qualification requirements through semantic analysis and validation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11030404B1System, method, and computer program for using machine learning to calibrate job description based on diversity criteria
Publication Date: 2021.06.08 EIGHTFOLD AI INC
  • US11030404B1 patent drawing
  • US11030404B1 patent drawing
  • US11030404B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An intelligent system and method for analyzing documents and suggesting corrections based on diversity criteria include a processing device to analyze a job document, using a machine learning model, to identify a first expression representing a first qualification requirement favorable to a first class of applicants than a second class of applicants according to a diversity metric, responsive to identifying the first expression, determine, using a semantic relation map, a second expression representing a second qualification requirement that is less favorable to the first class of applicants when compared to the first expression, and responsive to determining that the second expression, present the second expression on the interface device as a suggested replacement to the first expression in the job document.