OGL 481 Pro-Seminar I:
PCA-Ethical Communities Worksheet
Worksheet Objectives:
1. Understand the four ethical communities
2. Apply an ethical community to your personal case situation
Complete the following making sure to support your ideas and cite from the textbook and other
course materials per APA guidelines. After the peer review, you have a chance to update this and
format for your Electronic Portfolio due in Module 6.
1) Briefly restate your situation from Module 1 and your role.
My current role at Doehrman Company is as an automotive equipment installer. I
joined the company in June of 2022, transitioning from Western Pump where I worked in
the parts department. I love cars and working at Doehrman allows me to immerse myself
in the automotive industry because we specialize in all automotive service equipment.
Western Pump acquired Doehrman Company in early 2021 when the owner was looking
to expand the company. Both companies have been around for over 4 decades, but the
owner of Western Pump uses more advanced technology for all their paperwork, in a
program called Jonas. Doehrman Company was still using pen & paper and handshake
agreements, which is unprofessional and inefficient in the eyes of Western Pump.
Western Pump has been training their newly acquired employees of Doehrman on the
Jonas software but they still continue to receive criticism and backlash almost three years
later.
2) Describe how the ethics of the organization influenced the situation.
The situation at Doehrman Company was influenced heavily by ethics related to
professionalism, efficiency, and adaptation to technological advancements. I believe the
decision by Western Pump to acquire Doehrman Company reflects a well thoughtout
move that is aimed at expanding the business. However, the difference in technological
infrastructure and operations between the two companies shows the ethical implications
regarding the standards of professionalism and efficiency. The criticism and backlash
faced by Doehrman Company for its outdated pen-and-paper approach highlight the
importance of utilizing modern technology in business operations. From an ethical
standpoint, there is a responsibility to uphold professional standards and ensure efficient
processes that benefit both the company and its stakeholders. Failure to adapt to
technological advancements not only reflects poorly on the company's reputation but also
raises questions about its commitment to ethical business practices in a rapidly evolving
1
industry landscape. Therefore, addressing these ethical considerations involves the
adoption of modern technology and implementing best practices to align with industry
standards and expectations.
3) Recommend how you would apply one of the ethical community metaphors (see
Exhibit 20.1 in Bolman and Deal) for an alternative course of action regarding your
case.
One ethical community metaphor from Bolman and Deal's exhibit that could be
applied to the situation at Doehrman Company is "extended family." In this metaphor, the
organization is shown as a supportive family where members care for each other's well-
being and growth. To apply this metaphor to the situation at Doehrman Company,
leadership could emphasize the importance of unity and collaboration between the newly
acquired Doehrman employees and those from Western Pump. Instead of focusing solely
on the technological differences and criticisms, the leadership could foster a sense of
belonging and mutual support among all of the employees, like family members working
together toward common goals.
Leadership could organize team-building activities, workshops, and training
sessions aimed at integrating the two groups of employees and giving a sense of unity.
Additionally, they could create mentorship programs where experienced employees from
both companies guide and support each other in adapting to new technologies. By
framing the organization as a "family," Doehrman Company's leadership can cultivate a
culture of empathy, understanding, and cooperation, which can help relieve tensions,
enhance communication, and foster a smoother transition toward adopting modern
technology.
4) Reflect on what you would do or not do differently given what you have learned
about ethics.
Applying ethical principles from Bolman and Deal, I would prioritize a supportive
and inclusive culture at Doehrman Company amidst the transition period following its
acquisition by Western Pump. This would involve building relationships and trust among
employees from both companies, promoting open communication channels, and
involving employees in decision-making processes to create a sense of ownership and
commitment to shared goals. I would make sure that changes, such as adopting new
technology, are implemented sensitively, with adequate support and training provided to
help employees adapt and succeed. By leading with integrity and empathy, I aim to
navigate the transition with the main focus on the well-being of all employees. Creating a
culture of respect, collaboration, and shared purpose will be essential in overcoming
challenges and achieving success at Doehrman Company.
