As we talked about before in this module, it’s important for project managers to work ethically. This means doing the right thing, not just following rules. There are written rules and laws, but there are also moral rules and values.
What are these moral rules and values? Let’s break it down with some explanations and examples.
Moral rules are like a list of dos and don’ts for how a person should behave. For instance, one moral rule is “don’t steal.”
Values are strong beliefs that guide how we act in different situations. They show what we think is good behavior. Values can be personal, but they can also be shared in groups like companies. When a bunch of people in the same group share these values, they shape how everyone acts in that group.
In companies, these shared values are super important. They make up the core of what the company’s culture is all about. These values are a small set of important beliefs that don’t change much, and they really influence how people act at work.
For example, The Open University (2019) has some values they believe in:
In our work, we stick to The Open University values of being inclusive, innovative, and responsive.
The value of being inclusive and innovative is a big part of what people do at The Open University. They use this value to make sure everyone can access knowledge through new and creative solutions.
Values and moral rules help everyone know how to behave in a group or at work. It’s good to think about them to understand how they affect the decisions we make when working on projects.
Think about the values your workplace or a group you’re in follows. Can you name some of these values? How do these values affect how you work on projects? Share your thoughts with other learners in the discussion below.
In every project, ethics plays a crucial role, and as a project manager, understanding and applying ethics is not just about following rules and laws, but also about upholding moral principles and values. These principles shape our actions, decisions, and ultimately, the project.
Let’s break it down:
Moral principles are the guidelines for how we should behave. Think of it like the personal compass that keeps us in check. For instance, honesty, fairness, and integrity help ensure we don’t cut corners or deceive stakeholders.
Values, on the other hand, are the beliefs that drive us towards desirable outcomes. At workplace, these values are shared, shaping how the team works together and what they aim to achieve. For example, in some organizations, values like collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity are central to their culture. These values not only inspire individuals but also guide how projects are managed.
In my experience, values such as teamwork and innovation can significantly influence how a project is handled. When a company places value on innovation, for example, there’s usually room for creative solutions, encouraging the team to think outside the box. If inclusivity is a value, it impacts the project by ensuring that every voice is heard and considered, especially during decision-making.
Reflecting on the values of the organization you’re a part of is important because it directly influences your approach to managing projects. The values serve as the foundation for ethical decision-making, helping to create a balanced and fair working environment while driving the project toward its goals in responsible manner.
The scope of ethics in projects is vast and multifaceted, encompassing various aspects of project management. Here are key points to consider:
Project Ethics Dimensions
1. Professionalism: Adhering to industry standards, codes of conduct, and best practices.
2. Integrity: Honesty, transparency, and fairness in all project dealings.
3. Respect: Valuing stakeholders’ rights, dignity, and cultural diversity.
4. Responsibility: Accountability for project outcomes, impacts, and consequences.
5. Sustainability: Considering environmental, social, and economic implications.
Benefits of Ethical Project Management
1. Builds trust and credibility
2. Enhances reputation and brand value
3. Promotes teamwork and collaboration
4. Ensures compliance with laws and regulations
5. Supports sustainable outcomes
6. Fosters social responsibility
7. Encourages innovation and excellence
By acknowledging ethical considerations, project managers can ensure that projects are conducted with integrity, responsibility, and sustainability.
In my organisation, we place a high price on our core values. It is our drive and culture. We combine professionalism with good moral character.
Professionalism
Excellence in service delivery
To succeed in such organization, careful selection of the best hands, constant training and retraining of the team to ensure accuracy and excellence delivery is very crucial.
Integrity, discipline, and empathy crowns it all
As a teacher practice student, I believe the value of the school is sound knowledge and good character.
Ogoke Nwachukwu Felicia Onyemaechi, COHORT 18 Team 7
My organisational values, which has become the company’s culture, are accountability, Teamwork and Collaboration, Time management, empathy, and commitment and Efficiency.
Thank you
My organisational goals are delivering customer preferred order, attention to details, proper communication, creativity and Diligence
The Girls’ Pride Initiative for Sustainable Development is committed to promoting the health and well-being of girls and vulnerable women in society. As part of our commitment, we conduct campaigns and sensitization programs on menstrual health and hygiene.
My Name is Merit Nkechi Nwabuike Team 6
My Organizational goals are:
Attention to details,
Collaboration,
Results Oriented,
Willingness to learn,
Accountability,
Time management e.t.c