It is now time to review a case study that focuses on ethical behavior.
Access the Open APM’s ethics case study resource provided below to read a scenario concerning ethics in projects.
Can you pinpoint a few instances of professional conduct highlighted in this scenario? Reflect on the skills employed to integrate ethical considerations into the decisions made by the individuals involved. Can you recognize them?
Share your responses in the discussion section below.
After posting your comment, proceed to the next step, where you will find some potential answers provided by APM for these questions.
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The issues i observed from the case study were:
1. Williams initial approach of not involving the rest of the team, showing lack a of trust and communication.
2. John’s inability to question the reports and findings.
3. karens fear of hurting John feelings from her observations of the reports.
In the end, a good communication saved the project
The parties initially showed lack of communication, no collaboration and poor attention to work ethics. However, this changed when John later asked for Karen feedback which later resulted in collaboration and good communication amongst them.
Some of the issues of Professional Conduct that showed in the scenario painted in the XYZ firm are integrity, honesty, objectivity, and competence, and the skills used to bring Ethics into the Decision: Ethical Awareness (Karen): Karen recognized the ethical dilemma and the potential consequences of accepting the flawed report. This is the first step in ethical decision-making. Collaboration: Karen & John collaborated with each other and, eventually, with the larger firm to address the issue. This highlights the importance of teamwork in ethical decision-making.
Ethical project management relies on several key skills. Objectivity, using facts and data over personal biases, is crucial, as is considering all perspectives and avoiding conflicts of interest. Effective communication, clearly conveying information and actively listening to stakeholders, is essential. Critical thinking enables the identification of ethical dilemmas and evaluation of potential consequences. Problem-solving focuses on creating ethical and equitable solutions for all stakeholders. Emotional intelligence allows project managers to understand and manage emotions, crucial for navigating challenging situations and building strong relationships. Finally, leadership sets an ethical example and fosters a culture of ethical behavior through open communication, transparency, and accountability.
What I see as the issue here is lack of communication, team work and business ethics.
This values and norms impact on the ethical and environmental considerations of running projects for a company as they create aconducive working environment for employeee thus yielding high productivity results.
1. Issues of Professional Conduct
1. Transparency & Honesty
o The local agency (via William) provided an engagement report that was unexpectedly “perfect,” raising concerns about whether the data was gathered ethically or comprehensively.
o John was initially not informed that any engagement had taken place, suggesting a lack of openness in the process.
2. Integrity vs. Pressure to Deliver
o There was tension between quickly moving forward with the project using questionable data and taking the time to verify that data properly.
o Karen worried about voicing her concerns, fearing it might affect her reputation and probation status, illustrating the ethical dilemma between personal job security and professional responsibility.
3. Potential Conflicts of Interest
o The local opinion research firm’s relationship with the government agency might have influenced the accuracy of the report.
o Accepting “perfect” results without proper scrutiny could compromise the integrity of the project.
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2. Skills Used to Bring Ethics into Decisions
1. Open Communication & Active Listening
o Karen’s candid discussion with John about the suspiciously perfect results led to honest reflection and decision-making.
o John’s willingness to hear Karen’s concerns demonstrated a culture that values ethical dialogue.
2. Courage & Integrity
o Karen risked professional discomfort by questioning the report’s validity despite her probation status.
o John acknowledged potential project risks rather than dismissing Karen’s reservations, showing ethical leadership.
3. Risk Assessment & Problem-Solving
o They mapped out risks of accepting the flawed data (e.g., potential project failure down the line) versus challenging it (e.g., straining relationships or slowing progress).
o This thorough evaluation helped them see the bigger picture and choose the ethically sound path.
4. Collaboration & Seeking Expert Support
o Karen’s idea to involve a larger, reputable opinion research partner ensured an impartial review.
o By consulting with colleagues and external experts, they validated the data and maintained project integrity.
5. Long-Term Reputation Management
o Recognizing that delivering a flawed project would damage the firm’s standing motivated them to address the issue properly.
o Focusing on the firm’s values and reputation helped guide ethical decision-making.
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In essence, the scenario highlights how a commitment to integrity, effective communication, and thorough risk analysis can guide project professionals to make ethical decisions—even when under pressure to deliver quickly or facing personal career risks.
The problem identified in this case study is:
Lack of Team work
Lack of effective communication
They lacked attention to detail
The issue that can be identified in this scenario include the LACK OF TEAM WORK, LACK OF COMMUNICATION.
The skills that were used include PROACTIVENESS, COLLABORATION, TEAM SPIRIT, COMMUNICATION
In the professional conduct they lacked
1.Team work
2.communication
3.The lacked attention to details
Personally I would say they should follow the following steps in other to come out with a good result.
Why Ethics Matter in Project Management
a.
Builds Trust:Ethical behavior helps build trust among stakeholders, team members, and clients.
b
Promotes Fairness: Ethics ensure fairness in decision-making, resource allocation, and conflict resolution.
c
Enhances Reputation:Ethical project managers enhance their professional reputation and credibility.
d
Encourages Accountability: Ethics promote accountability for actions, decisions, and outcomes.