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.
Ojomo Ayodele Olaitan
Cohort 16
Team 7
To my understanding, morals, values, ethics & organisational values are just different sets occupying the same venn diagram with value being in the centre.
Individuals who do not possess good morals will not be able to work with other individuals that possess good morals same goes with values.
When a values or sets of values are being shared between members or a group of people in an organisation, that’s referred to as “organisational values”
Some of these core values in my organisation are: Dedication, Quality, Resilience, Commitment and Teamwork. These guide I, the staffs & employee in our day to day activities and processes.
Dedication: we all strive to b focused and determined to achieve desireable results despite hurdles and difficult decisions to make.
Quality : It’s not something one gives himself, it’s an attribute given to people or organisations who have delivered standard goods and services over a period of time. Therefore the processes involved in creating quality has to be perfect or near perfect, this is where hardwork comes in.
Resilience: This is said to be undaunting conviction in the face faliures, errors, trials, bad production/harsh economic times and your attitude towards it as a staff.
“Will the team survive? Have the workers lost hope?
What went wrong? What can we do better?
We will try again.” Those are questions that build up our confidence in any organisation.
Commitment: giving anything your 100% basically, do you give your all?
Do you hoard knowledge or share it?
Do you train those beneath you that they may understand, learn and know why it is they do some of the processes they do in that organisation. These are certain questions i ask myself and correct errors to move ahead in an organisation.
Teamwork: is basically joining hands with your workers or even workers in different department for the main purpose of making a job easier, efficient and more productive. No man is an Island so liason with e.g the managers of different departments helps one to know and to be sure how the whole organisation is inter connected and how the work affects each one of us.
Therefore, an individual must possess good morals & values of themselves to work in an organisation. They must harmonize their values and ethics with those of other employees and the organisation itself. In this way everyone works with one mind, the organisation moves forward in all aspects, efficiency and effectiveness is maximised, technical know-how is encouraged and profit is boosted
Aminah YUSUFF
In my current organization, we values transparency, being innovative and creative in approaches, You have to be accountable for your actions, and Timeliness and honesty are also a core values. These values has always been my guiding light in both personal and professional choices and actions.
Ethical values are the conduct of any organizations which portray their morals and professionalism.
As a banker you must be transparent, accountability, duty of secrecy, problem solving and delivering exceptional Service.
The values above will guide your conduct, help your professionalism and maintain your discipline.
Ethical values are important in a professional organization. They give a certain notion that shows the organization is on the top of it’s game in handling projects.
The organization im currently working at is focused on empowering and shaping individuals to become leaders in any field they find themselves in, and our core values significantly influence how we approach projects to enable our success. these values are:
1) Professional Development: We prioritize continuous learning and growth. This means that our projects, focus on providing opportunities for education and skills development.
2) Collaboration and Networking: We consider the essence of building strong professional networks this translates to organizing events online platforms where members can share experiences, and resources, and support each other.
3) Integrity and Accountability: We strive to maintain honesty,and transparency in our processes, and being accountable for our actions. This builds trust within the community and with shareholders
These values shape how we plan, execute, and evaluate our projects
Some of the core value of the organization I am part of are integrity, accountability, innovation, leadership, respect, commitment, passion and teamwork. These values guide my choices and actions in both my personal and professional life . Honesty is important to me because it allows me to build trust and maintain strong relationships with others . I believe in being truthful and transparent , even when it may be difficult . Integrity is another crucial value for me . I strive to always do the right thing , even when no one is watching . I believe in being accountable for my actions and taking responsibility for any mistakes I may make . Compassion is a value that influences how I treat others . I believe in showing empathy and understanding towards others , and I always strive to be kind and considerate in my interactions . Lastly , growth is a value that drives me to continuously improve and learn . I believe in setting goals and pushing myself to reach new heights , both personally and professionally . Overall , my core values serve as a moral compass for me , shaping my decisions and actions . They remind me to always strive to be the best version of myself and to make a positive impact on those around me.
My Name is Joseph Ikechukwu Onyeocha:
Ethics in projects encompass a wide range of considerations and principles that guide the conduct and decision-making throughout the project lifecycle. Here are some key aspects:
1. Integrity: Upholding honesty and truthfulness in all communications and dealings related to the project.
2. Fairness: Ensuring fairness in decision-making processes, including procurement, resource allocation, and team management.
3. Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and decisions made during the project, and being answerable to stakeholders.
4. Transparency: Maintaining openness and clarity in project processes, outcomes, and reporting.
5. Confidentiality: Respecting and protecting sensitive information and data related to the project and stakeholders.
6. Respect for stakeholders: Considering and valuing the interests, rights, and perspectives of all stakeholders affected by the project.
7. Compliance: Adhering to relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies that govern the project.
8. Sustainability: Considering the long-term impact of the project on the environment, society, and economy, and striving for sustainable practices.
9. Professionalism: Conducting oneself and the project team with professionalism and competence in all interactions and tasks.
10. Conflict of interest: Identifying and managing conflicts of interest that may arise among stakeholders involved in the project.
Ethical considerations should be integrated into every phase of the project, from planning and execution to evaluation and closure, to ensure that the project not only meets its objectives but also contributes positively to society and respects the rights of all involved parties.
Nnadi Stella Chidinma
Team 7
In any organization or Group, Honesty, Transparency, accountability and integrity is a core value that can ensure Confidentiality in teams and great customer service and team work and success.
In my organization, our work values include honesty, transparency and openness. we ensure projects are delivered on time and ensuring customers/clients satisfaction. These work ethics combine with good communication and human management skills have been our driving force.
Honesty: This means being true, sincere and caring. A Project team that imbibe this value will grow because there is trust in the organisation.
Commitment: A team of committed members will grow even in the event of challenges because the have each others back.