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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John had “eagle eyes for details”, Williams was versatile and Karen was proactive. Eventually, the problem was solved with “collaboration”.
In the case ethics case study, I could see the lack of clear communication amongst the three project managers.
William trying to pin his opinion and report on the others because of his advantage of knowing people in the government and John not having it, also Karen hoarding her own opinion and ideals because she hasn’t been long on the job wasn’t so cool either.it all boils down to how important communication is in project management.
There was trust issues among three project managers which led to the disruption of the project
From my point of view, of course there was lack of communication from the the team members themselves renderings to not trusting each other. In that case the project couldn’t be success since we all perceive and know that transparency in communication it’s a vital value-added to becoming a better project manager.
The study highlights importance of professional conduct and ethical decision-making in project management, emphasizing the need for clear communication, meticulous planning, and internal collaboration. As a project manager, I recognize that these critical elements were notably absent in this situation. From my perspective, William’s approach to the engagement process was fundamentally flawed, lacking transparency and directly contradicting John’s expectations, which led to significant frustration and concern. Additionally, Karen’s reluctance to voice her concerns points to a failure to cultivate an ethical workplace culture where open communication is encourage and value.
ELIZABETH CHIOMA FASUYI
Acting Ethically – PM Course Discussion Response
Having reviewed the APM Ethics Case Studies 1 to 3, here is my reflection on the issues of professional conduct and the ethical decision-making skills applied:
1. Instances of Professional Conduct Highlighted
Case Study 1: Breach of Confidentiality & Fairness
A senior manager’s request to disclose a competitor’s bid undermines confidentiality and fair practice in procurement. The project manager’s resistance demonstrated ethical conduct by upholding integrity and neutrality.
Case Study 2: Bribery & Transparency
The acceptance of an expensive gift from a supplier challenged anti-bribery standards and transparency. The project lead’s decision to return the gift and report the incident upheld corporate policy and protected the project’s impartiality.
Case Study 3: Misrepresentation & Accountability
A team member manipulated data to show false project progress. The project manager’s decision to investigate and report the issue, rather than conceal it, reflected strong integrity and professional accountability.
2. Skills Employed to Integrate Ethics into Decisions
Ethical Awareness:
The individuals were able to identify ethical red flags and recognize when boundaries were being crossed.
Courage and Assertiveness:
Project leaders took firm stands against unethical suggestions, even under pressure from higher authorities.
Effective Communication:
They clearly articulated ethical concerns to stakeholders and upheld professional standards.
Decision-Making Based on Policy and Values:
Actions taken were guided by the organization’s ethical policies and a personal commitment to doing what is right.
The case study highlights the importance of professional conduct and ethical decision-making in project management, emphasizing the need for clear communication, meticulous planning, and internal collaboration. As a project manager, I recognize that these critical elements were notably absent in this situation. From my perspective, William’s approach to the engagement process was fundamentally flawed, lacking transparency and directly contradicting John’s expectations, which led to significant frustration and concern. Additionally, Karen’s reluctance to voice her concerns points to a failure to cultivate an ethical workplace culture where open communication is encourage and value.
This scenario showcases exemplary professional conduct and ethical decision-making skills, highlighting the importance of:
1. *Accurate data*: John’s insistence on a proper meeting ensured reliable data for decision-making.
2. *Integrity and critical thinking*: Karen’s willingness to question the report’s validity demonstrated professional integrity.
3. *Risk assessment and management*: John and Karen’s methodical approach evaluated potential risks and consequences.
4. *Collaboration and problem-solving*: Karen’s initiative to seek advice and involve a reputable global firm ensured an ethical resolution.
5. *Commitment to quality and transparency*: The team’s pursuit of a deeper investigation demonstrated their commitment to high-quality work and transparency.
The skills employed for ethical decision-making include:
1. *Critical thinking*: Analyzing the situation beyond surface-level information.
2. *Risk management*: Evaluating potential risks and consequences.
3. *Collaboration and communication*: Engaging with colleagues and external partners.
4. *Integrity and professional ethics*: Prioritizing honesty and transparency.
5. *Problem-solving and initiative*: Proactively researching solutions.
This scenario reinforces the importance of ethical leadership in project management, ensuring genuine stakeholder engagement and proper risk management.
Examples of professional conduct highlighted in the scenario, along with the skills used to integrate ethical considerations into decision-making:
Instances of Professional Conduct
1. John expecting a proper meeting with the key stakeholders rather than relying on a pre-existing report. His approach was very professional ensuring that the data used for decision-making is accurate.
2. Karen’s Integrity and Critical Thinking:
Karen questioned the engagement report’s validity, even though she was new to the company and had personal concerns about her probation period. She demonstrated professional integrity by prioritizing ethical concerns over personal comfort.
3. John and Karen’s Risk Assessment:
Instead of dismissing concerns, John and Karen took the time to map out the risks associated with both accepting and challenging the report. Their approach was methodical, weighing potential consequences for the project and the firm’s long-term reputation.
4. Collaboration and Problem-Solving:
Karen sought advice from colleagues and conducted further research to find a solution. She identified a way to verify the report’s validity by involving a reputable global firm, ensuring an ethical and data-driven resolution.
5. Commitment to Quality and Transparency:
Instead of taking the easier route of accepting the flawed report, the team pursued a deeper investigation. This demonstrated their commitment to delivering high-quality work with transparency.
Skills Employed for Ethical Decision-Making
1. Critical Thinking – Karen and John analyzed the situation beyond surface-level information and questioned potential biases.
2. Risk Management – They evaluated potential risks of different courses of action before deciding.
3. Collaboration & Communication – They engaged with colleagues and external partners to find a viable ethical solution.
4. Integrity & Professional Ethics – They prioritized honesty and transparency over convenience, maintaining the company’s reputation.
5. Problem-Solving & Initiative – Karen proactively researched a solution rather than ignoring the issue.
Their actions reinforced the importance of ethical leadership in project management, ensuring stakeholder engagement was genuine and project risks were properly addressed.
I completely agree with Damilola1’s points.
Here are some instances of professional conduct highlighted in the scenario, along with the skills used to integrate ethical considerations into decision-making:
Instances of Professional Conduct
1. John’s Commitment to Proper Stakeholder Engagement: John initially expected a structured forum to collect feedback from key stakeholders rather than relying on a pre-existing report. His reaction to the unexpected situation reflects a professional approach—ensuring that the data used for decision-making is credible.
2. Karen’s Integrity and Critical Thinking:
Karen questioned the engagement report’s validity, even though she was new to the company and had personal concerns about her probation period. She demonstrated professional integrity by prioritizing ethical concerns over personal comfort.
3. John and Karen’s Risk Assessment:
Instead of dismissing concerns, John and Karen took the time to map out the risks associated with both accepting and challenging the report. Their approach was methodical, weighing potential consequences for the project and the firm’s long-term reputation.
4. Collaboration and Problem-Solving:
Karen sought advice from colleagues and conducted further research to find a solution. She identified a way to verify the report’s validity by involving a reputable global firm, ensuring an ethical and data-driven resolution.
5. Commitment to Quality and Transparency:
Instead of taking the easier route of accepting the flawed report, the team pursued a deeper investigation. This demonstrated their commitment to delivering high-quality work with transparency.
Skills Employed for Ethical Decision-Making
1. Critical Thinking – Karen and John analyzed the situation beyond surface-level information and questioned potential biases.
2. Risk Management – They evaluated potential risks of different courses of action before deciding.
3. Collaboration & Communication – They engaged with colleagues and external partners to find a viable ethical solution.
4. Integrity & Professional Ethics – They prioritized honesty and transparency over convenience, maintaining the company’s reputation.
5. Problem-Solving & Initiative – Karen proactively researched a solution rather than ignoring the issue.
Their actions reinforced the importance of ethical leadership in project management, ensuring stakeholder engagement was genuine and project risks were properly addressed.