pay equity analysis

Definition

A statistical examination of compensation data to identify unexplained pay differences based on protected characteristics like gender or race. The audit that makes executives nervous and lawyers wealthy.

Example Usage

The pay equity analysis revealed women earned 92 cents per dollar compared to men in similar roles, triggering immediate salary adjustments totaling $2.3 million.

Origin

Formalized in the 1960s following Equal Pay Act, gained prominence with tech industry scrutiny in 2010s

Fun Fact

Conducting pay equity analyses can create legal liability by documenting disparities, which is why many companies avoid them until forced by legislation.

Source: Compensation management and employment law terminology

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