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.
Ethics and Values are one of the things prospective clients consider when scouting for the services of an organisation to employ or transact business. It is the non-verbal impression a client have about an organisation or cooperate entity.
My work space makes the ultimate satisfaction of our client a priority and overtime it has formed one of our core values.
Ethics and Values and one of the things prospective clients consider when scouting for the services of an organisation to employ or transact business. It is the non-verbal impression a client have about an organisation or cooperate entity.
My work space makes the ultimate satisfaction of our client a priority and overtime it has formed one of our core values.
Examples Of Values In The Organization Where I Work And How It Has Influenced Our Workspace Are:
1. Integrity: This has enabled transparency and trust amongst one another, creating an easy work flow.
2. Collaboration: Promotes teams spirit birthing more innovations.
3. Respect: This promotes open-ended communication, clears the air of any form of tension, and welcomes diverse perspectives, which promote productivity.
4. Professionalism etc
Ethics are the principles that guide our actions, helping us discern right from wrong. Values, on the other hand, are the deeply held beliefs that define who we are and shape our decisions.
In a world that’s rapidly changing, ethics and values serve as our compass. They remind us that success is not just measured by what we achieve, but by how we achieve it. Integrity, honesty, respect, and fairness should never be compromised in pursuit of short-term gains. Upholding these principles builds trust, strengthens relationships, and creates a culture where people feel valued and respected.
In my workplace, it’s core values are
Entrepreneurship
Professionalism
Innovation and
Customer centricity
From the security at the entrance to the cleaners and even the managers you have to show professionalism in your job
Rules and Values brings out the best in any organization.
Rules define the cure conduct of the workforce of an organization. While
Values decides a companys reputable base for respect and attractive patronage of Products and Services
Both needs to be set straight for a better collaboration among employees.
Here are some common core values of the organisation I work for:
Care: Commitment to compassionate patient care.
Quality: Providing high standards of medical services.
Integrity: Upholding ethical practices and transparency.
Excellence: Striving for continuous improvement in healthcare delivery.
Community Partnership: Engaging with the community for better health outcomes.
Professionalism: Maintaining a high standard of conduct among staff.
Moral principles keep people in check
Respect
Integrity
Cooperation
Accountability
Are some of the values of the organization I work for.
Integrity
Excellence
Collaboration
Accountability
Respect
Creativity
Integrity and excellence are some of the values adhered to by some groups I have been involved in and these values translate positively when I execute my work.