Project success is traditionally focused on delivering a project within the constraints of time, budget, and scope. This article outlines the risks associated with the “new world disorder” and the challenges that require new ethical perspectives on the delivery of projects. An improvement to the project management framework is proposed to analyze the ethical value of the product, as well as the conduct of the provider in case of defect or failure.
Following ethics standards and maintaining an ethical workplace culture makes perfect business sense. The author outlines the steps toward establishing corporate ethics and why instilling and maintaining a strong code of ethics in workplace culture is a long-term investment.
A successful project requires leadership, which requires followers, which requires trust, which requires ethical behavior. Therefore, an absence of ethical behavior undermines project success.
When discussing cultural and social behaviors, laws and the intersection with a professional career in a regulated market, being ethical means conforming to accepted standards of conduct. A recent trip and enlightening class brought the issue front and center to an experienced PM.
A common, shared ethic can close the generational gap and aid in team integration, but the complex business environment necessitates an approach to ethics founded on culture. The catalyst for that culture must be embedded in leadership’s participation in behavior that reflects the shared values of the project management profession.
The increased pressures that program and project managers will face may come into direct or indirect conflict with ethics, professionalism and morals. And all of these attributes are valuable when you examine the career growth of individuals.
Ethics is not always black and white, but by applying a few simple principles, you can navigate your way with confidence through the messiest of project situations.
Like all publicly recognized professions, PMI has promulgated a Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. The code protects us as a group--it's an effective defense shield for our professional reputations. Are you taking advantage of this valuable resource?
In events of seemingly unfavorable project outcomes, principles such as responsibility, fairness and honesty can help project managers uphold integrity and credibility with the client and team. Here, one PM practitioner shares an experience from the healthcare field.
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"Doubt is not a pleasant condition, but certainty is absurd." - Voltaire |
