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.
Sticking to ones values and morales even when they’re not convenient or easy to follow I am important quality not just for a project manager but for the team members as well as other stakeholders.
In my organization, one value I can clearly see and also attested to by many co-workers as we have all talked about it in some way or the other is that family-like culture with the organization. We’re more like a family than co-workers. Maybe this can be attributed to the organisation’s small size but it’s definitely there
The public service space is far from observing Ethics in their domain. I would love to see Reforms that would change the Public work space in my country.
In the organization I am involved with, a set of core values deeply influence many projects: innovation, collaboration, partnership, quality, leadership, and continuous learning. These values serve as guiding principles, informing project objectives, strategies, and execution. Consequently, they play a crucial role in driving project success and overall organizational advancement.
I believe an organization cannot achieve its goals and objectives especially if there are no values in an organization.These values are:
-Integrity:Upholding integrity ensures that project members are honest, transparent, and ethical in all their actions. This fosters trust among team members and stakeholders, reduces the risk of unethical behavior, and promotes a positive reputation for the project and when you focus on innovation encourages team members to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and explore unconventional solutions to challenges.
_ Collaboration promotes teamwork, communication, and knowledge sharing among project members. By working together closely, sharing expertise, and leveraging diverse perspectives, teams can overcome obstacles more effectively, capitalize on collective strengths, and achieve project goals efficiently.
-Accountability:Holding your team members accountable for their actions and responsibilities promotes a sense of ownership and commitment to project success. When individuals know they are answerable for their contributions, they are more likely to fulfill their obligations, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality work. It also facilitates clear communication, reduces misunderstandings, and minimizes the risk of project delays or failures.
To satisfy customer is also one of the important values in an organization.when the customer is satisfied it ensure that the project outcomes meet the needs and expectations of your clients.
These organizational values serve as guiding principles that shape decision-making, behavior, and interactions within project teams, ultimately contributing to the achievement of project objectives and organizational success.
As an interior designer and a bead maker my value I making sure to provide Quality material, and unique work of art and be sincere enough to clients who are not aware of the difference between quality and and quantity when it comes to Pricing. Even as we intend to make profit, our sole aim is ensuring that we keep our customers coming back to us when they discover they have the best and don’t feel cheated.
We also will ensure adequate planning so as to meet up with scheduled delivery time, if there is likely to be any form of delay maybe as result to unavailability of materials we make sure to reach out to our clients before delivery period.
This is how we maintain value in our enterprise.
An organization I desire to work in has the most admirable values of Safety, Integrity, Team work, Respect, Excellence and Care. These core values guide relationship with clients, partners and employees. I align my personal values to these.
My company’s values include
being humble
transparent
accountable
we are empathetic
these values are not only reflected in the workings of the company but also guides hiw we relate with clients
My company’s core values include;
Innovation: We’re passionate about finding better, smarter ways to harness solar energy and protect homes and businesses with CCTV. Innovation isn’t just about technology; it’s about caring enough to make a difference.
Sustainability: We’re on a mission to create a world where clean energy isn’t just an option but a way of life. By championing solar power, we’re not only reducing carbon footprints but also preserving our planet for generations to come.
Quality: Our dedication to quality isn’t just about meeting standards; it’s about craftsmanship that stands the test of time. We take pride in our work because we know it brings peace of mind to our customers.
Integrity: Trust is the foundation of every relationship we build, whether it’s with a customer, a partner, or a colleague. We believe in doing what’s right, even when no one is watching.
Customer service: Behind every solar panel and CCTV camera is a person with unique needs and concerns. That’s why we go the extra mile to listen, empathize, and tailor solutions that truly make a difference in people’s lives.
Safety: Our commitment to safety isn’t just a policy; it’s a promise. We look out for one another like family because nothing is more important than ensuring everyone returns home safely each day.
Continuous improvement: We believe in progress, not perfection. By embracing a culture of learning and improvement, we empower each other to grow, evolve, and succeed together.
Collaboration: Our differences make us stronger. By celebrating diversity and fostering inclusivity, we create a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents.
These values reflect not only what we do but who we are as a company—a community of passionate individuals united by a common purpose: to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Personally I believe an organization can not achieve its set goals or missions if there are no values in place especially ethical values. As an entrepreneur I’ve made it a thing of value to always empathize with others especially my employees because I believe that when the employees are well treated business moves smoothly. Also I’m a member of a bookclub and some of the values that we all adhere to includes no religious or political discussions at the club. These set of principles has helped us to maintain peace and harmony within club members. So yes values are worthwhile both in the organizational settings and individual levels.
I’m a student, an upcoming project manager. Can only relate this to a volunteering program i’m into in school. I’m a member and captain of my squad in red cross society. There are moral principles which are general but what makes everyone to be on their toes is the values which we call seven principles.
Humanity
Impartiality
Neutrality
Independence
Voluntary service
Unity
Universality
With these principles remarkable things have been happening with our innovative minds.