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.
Values and moral principles guide the actions of individuals in organizational contexts. It is important to reflect on them to understand how they will drive decision-making in projects
In my Civil engineering organization, our core values of operation are, “No Stealing”; Patience with one another; Honesty; Integrity; Respect to our host community/estate and dedication to any job(s) on hand.
The values that my organization has that aligns with my values as well are:
Integrity: I do what I say.
Respect: I treat others with kindness and empathy.
Professionalism: I do things right the very first time.
Innovation: I create and improve.
Commitment: I am passionate and engaged.
The organization am in holds dear to several principals which include the do no harm principal ,no to sexual exploitation and abuse,leaving no one behind and respect to cultural diversity this ensures that the project does not cause harm than profit
Values are shared responsibilities, understanding of what makes a good and reputable Organization, it reflects the standard of interpersonal relationship of golden platform.
At the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria, the core values are Integrity, transparency, accountability, team work among others.
Our core values reflects in our product and this has been severally acknowledged by our customers. From their feedback on actual weight, quality and taste we have consistently won their first. This is also an exhibition of high moral principles of the staff because it’s one thing for the company to have a value system and it’s the other for staff to uphold it.
Values and moral principles guide the actions of individuals in organizational contexts. It is important to reflect on them to understand how they will drive decision-making in projects
In my organization, we abide by the value of excellent services hence while I work I ensure I am working toward excellence therefore my methodology, procedures, and result are put in place to meet the organisation value
At Archware International Technology Limited, we uphold a steadfast commitment to delivering unparalleled value to our customers, employees, and stakeholders. Our core values serve as the guiding principles that steer every facet of our operations, fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
Values and moral principles guide the actions of individuals in organizational contexts. As a project manager, It is important to reflect on them to understand how they will drive decision-making in projects.
The values of an organization I am part of are Quality, Convenience and Value, we strive to provide quality services, and allow our customers to access convenient services including delivery services for clients, and we ensure we provide quality materials. By doing this it helps us to retain our clients.