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.
As an IT students in the construction firm I work with,this are their values
Safety,Quality,Integrity, Innovation,Customer satisfaction,Teamwork,Accountability,Sustainability,Respect, Continuous improvement:
These values may vary depending on the specific construction firm and its mission
I’m from Kenya and have worked with clients in the USA, UK, and locally. One project close to my heart was the road safety campaign by the Matatu Owners Association and NTSA. It emphasized ethics like public responsibility, transparency, and integrity. These values shaped how we engaged communities and ensured honest, impactful work. Principles I carry into every project I support.
Mutheu Celine
Cohort 25 Team 3
In my current Organization, we value accountability, integrity, innovation, teamwork and respect.
Some values in my work please include honesty, dedication and communication
The organization I work with believes in Dedication. With it, we’ve been able to achieve progress over the years.
One of the values we have at work is the importance of “teamwork”. Meaning that when you as an employee don’t understand something or struggling, don’t shy away from reaching out and asking for help. Helping each other is a big thing as when we work together.
Another big one is integrity, always doing the right thing even if no one is watching.
Ethics in project management is very important, it shows the value of team, clients, stakeholders among others. When the expected is done, it yields positive results whc keeps your integrity intact
May 5, 2025 at 6:40am.
As a sales representative in a fashion home, one very ethical value that’s essential is accountability. Being accountable of every action and transaction that take place. Another is having an integrity and showcasing the spirit of teamwork.
As a member of child organization, one of our values is inclusivity for every child, as well as being loved and cared for, as they deserve. These values drives us to ensure that any child that comes under our shelter are properly taken care of, and not made to feel important. We let them know that they matter, and their dreams are valid. This makes us as volunteers and staff members, to be emphatic, understanding and loving.
Deborah Adeoye
As a member of a mental health advocacy group, we value Inclusivity, Accessibility, Responsibility, Excellence and Service. These core values guide our approach to personal and group projects.
For instance, as an organization that practices multi-diversity, our value of inclusivity enable us to respect and appreciate each of our differences. While, excellence enable us to prioritize optimal delivery.
My firm believes strongly in INTEGRITY, being CUSTOMER-CENTRIC, highly EFFICIENT and undoubtedly EFFECTIVE. Through all these, we are able to sustain the confidence of our clients.