A Subject Matter Expert (SME) is writing an email message to his Project Manager (PM) criticizing his (PM’s) work.
At the same time SME blind copies (Bcc) this message to PM’s manager and his own (SME’s) manager.
PM finds out accidentally that his manager received from SME the blind copy (Bcc) of this email message with negative comments about his (PM’s) work.
Is this SME’s behaviour unethical? What does PMI Code of Ethics say about this?
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Unfortunately, there is an ethical debate here. You don't mention whether this is a projectized or matrix organization but it sounds like a matrix organization where the PM has no authority over the resources.
Today this code applies to all PMI members and non- members who hold a PMI credential, are in a PMI volunteer capacity or who have applied to commence in the certification process.
The values that the global project management community have defined as most important are: Responsibility, respect, fairness and honesty.
There are two standards that those that are bound by this code should apply: Aspirational and Mandatory. These standards are not mutally exclusive.
The value at issue here is "Respect" and if the PM was informed of the issue by the SME, they would be expected to follow the standards in the code. Even if the PM does not meet the requirements above, these are guidelines that should be considered by any PM practitioner.
A PM's integrity, credibility and effectiveness is at risk by this type of action by a SME. PM should allow SME's to vet concerns, issues and personal conflict issues with them directly. Communication is critical with SME's since the project success depends on it.
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Brian M GielbedaProgram Director, Sales Product & Marketing| HealthfristNew York, Ny, United States
PMI's code of ethics states: When we make errors or omissions, we take ownership and make corrections promptly. When we discover errors or omissions caused by others, we communicate them to the appropriate body as soon they are discovered. We accept accountability for any issues resulting from our errors or omissions and any resulting consequences. In this instance I would say the SME is being unethical in that he should have addressed his concerns with the PM directly. By addressing his concerns head-on he allows the PM to make corrective actions. Saving Changes...
Brian, interesting point here, not sure we have enough information to know that the PM is not taking responsibility for their actions. It is more of the point as Vasilj points out that the SME has a problem with the PM and shares this with others but not the PM.
The PM discovers this gossip has occurred so it is their responsibility to engage a conversation with the SME.
In the PMI Code of Ethics, Chapter 3 discusses Respect. In these bullets is the action a PM should consider in this issue.
3.2.3 We approach directly those persons with whom we have a conflict or disagreement.
3.2.4 We conduct ourselves in a professional manner, even when it is not reciprocated.
Comment: An implication of these provisions is that we avoid engaging in gossip and avoid making negative remarks to undermine another person’s reputation. We also have a duty under this Code to confront others who engage in these types of behaviors.
The Code of Ethics now covers a larger audience so it is worthwhile for any PMI member, certified PM, PMI volunteer leader or anyone scheduled to sit for the exam. Saving Changes...
Gary DrummCEO - Sr. ITSM Consultant| Drumm Consulting GroupKennedale, Tx, United States
This is unethical for a number of reasons. If the SME is having issues with the PM, then he needs to communicate those issues directly. If he has communicated the issues and the PM has not done anything to address the concerns, then the SME is well within his rights to inform the PM's manager, but he should do so in full view of the PM.
In my opinion. BCC is a passive agressive way of addressing your issues with someone. To me it says, plainly, "I'm not smart enough to really address this issue head on, so I'm going to back door the person I'm having an issue with".
Politicians are everywhere, even in corporate America, and the BCC is really a "gotcha" tactic. If you're not smart enough to face the issue head on, and you lack the courage to go toe-to-toe with your opponent, you need to move on to something else.
Personally, I tend to get more irritated at the person BCC'ing me bad news about my subordinates. I will likely address the issue with them, privately, but I'm also likely to call all parties into a room and make them sort it out. Saving Changes...
