System of Inquiry
By: Greg • Essay • 2,158 Words • May 12, 2010 • 830 Views
System of Inquiry
System of Inquiry
Introduction
A system of inquiry is a preplanned method of evaluating the ethical decisions made in a business environment. The system of inquiry is constructed aid in implementing the code of conduct. The code of conduct is as a wide-ranging document that details the guiding principles that are considered suitable for an employee of the company. The employees who follow the policy contribute to the organization's overall success. The system of inquiry is used to evaluate decision-making, problem solving, and behavior in a business environment. All the employees within the company are required to acknowledging receipt and understanding of the company's code of ethics with her or his signature. An electronic copy of the code of conduct is available on the company's website for reference.
Human resources will distribute hard copies of the code of conduct to managers whom will in return have each team member sign and return. Human resource department will store these records in each employees personnel file. All employees shall have multiple resources to assist with the decision-making process, department managers, human resources manager, email addresses, and contact numbers for each of these resources.
Having a system of values, beliefs, and integrity in print is deemed vital to showing development process of the code of conduct. This will be the guidelines for acceptable behavior and responsibilities of high standards of practice while providing a vehicle to express a business's ethical identity. The main codes of ethics are present in personal and business perspectives knowing and following them are essential to business fluency. The growth of a code of ethics enables both individuals and businesses to work towards a common goal. Keeping the center of attention and commitment to doing what is ethical and right.
The code of ethics should address the major components that are important to the particular business needs. All modern societies have a code of ethics that guide them toward the proper reporting methods and protocols which is meant to ensure that fairness is the result passed on to the community. The code of ethics consists of four major areas which include seeking the facts, reducing harm, acting independently and setting the standards of accountability. All members of the business shall be held accountable to the code of ethics, established by following a system of inquiry used to retrieve information as well as a plan to implement the system.
Aiding in the development of this system of inquiry, XYZ (XYZ) code of business conduct and ethics will be used. XYZ is an international business manufacturing and servicing its communication equipment across 6 countries within diverse communities. Through service level agreements with each customer XYZ provides consulting and application services. Conducting business in an ethical manner is essential to the success of our company. Acting in an ethical manner is not only "the right thing to do." It also protects employees, the Company, its directors, officers, and other employees from the liability that can arise from violation of certain laws and regulations. (XYZ, 2008).
Evaluating decision-making
Sometimes it may be difficult for employees to decide whether or not a certain action is "ethical." In general, employees should evaluate the action according to a predetermined set of questions. Is it consistent with Company policies, procedures and guidelines? XYZ has high standards of business dealings and remains consistent with its policies. These policies are made consistent from top to bottom and stand to be fair and reciprocal for stakeholders, associates, and customers. Is it acceptable under the applicable laws and regulations? Staying within the bonds of the law is at the forefront of our business dealings. XYZ must remain certain that all and any business conducted falls in the legal limits at all times. Is it consistent with the Company's values? The role of employees in the organization and the ethical responsibilities must be identified and the objectives should be clarified before decision making. Employees, middle managers and executives have designated roles in the process. Does it satisfy my personal definition of right, good and fair? Remaining true one's own ethical standards can and most often is the best path. Many times listening to gut feeling can and will act as a guiding light for making fair and ethical decisions. When in doubt, you should ask your supervisor, human resources, or the General Counsel.
Problem solving
The managers are expected to first outline what kind of ethical problems the organization is faced with and what obstacles