New 3C framework analyzes barriers women face in computing

A new extended abstract on arXiv (ID 2605.13251) by Ioana Visescu and Shalini Chakraborty presents the 3C framework—Competition, Competence, and Collaboration—to examine the persistent structural and cultural barriers women face in computer science and software engineering. The paper argues that existing environments often reinforce competition, tokenism, and exclusion, especially in male-dominated academic and professional spaces. These dynamics shape how women experience networking, perceive their own competence, and access collaborative opportunities, ultimately affecting their sense of belonging and career progression.

The authors propose a concrete next step: community-driven discussions, focus groups, and participatory data collection within the ACM womENcourage community. This grassroots approach aims to gather firsthand insights and co-design solutions that foster stronger networks of mentorship, solidarity, and collaboration. By centering the lived experiences of women in computing, the 3C framework offers both a diagnostic tool and a roadmap for institutional change, challenging the tech industry to move beyond surface-level diversity efforts.