St.
Mary’s Catholic School
Web Design and Development
Assignment
Afomia Mulugeta
11-B
2
Submitted To: Mr. Girma
Submission Date: 14/05/2017 E.C
Project Assessment
Answer the following summative assessment questions according to the
instructions given below.
Activity 1. Codes of ethics and conduct
Study the following statements and indicate whether they apply to a code of
ethics or a code of conduct or both. 1
A. Becomes a legal agreement once signed
B. Legitimizes ethics.
C. Issued by a board of directors
D. Allows members to make independent judgments about the
most appropriate behavior
E. Encourages specific behavior
F. A mandatory set of standards that is strictly enforced
G. Only provides guidelines for behavior during difficult
situations.
H. Ensures standard behavior throughout the organization
Activity 2. Ethics theoretical assessment
Study the following statements and state whether they are true or false. If
you answer false give a reason for your answer. 2
1. Being ethical is not exactly the same as following the law.
2. A code of conduct is a document that simply guides ethical
decision making in all the members of an organization
3. If an employee signs a code of conduct, they enter into a
legal agreement with the employer.
Activity 3. Ethics theoretical assessment
Write Short Answer for the Following Question
1. Briefly discuss two reasons ethics are important in the
workplace.
2. List five aspects that are related to "personal
accountability" when it comes to workplace ethics and behavior.
3. Codes of ethics and conduct are documents that encourage
specific behavior in an organization. Discuss the differences between a
code of conduct and a code of ethics.
4. All organizations, no matter their size, can benefit from
a code of ethics or a code of conduct.
A. List two benefits of having a code of ethics in place.
B. List two benefits of having a code of conduct in place.
5. Briefly discuss three features that all professions have
in common.
6. Why do you think professions and professionals are so
important in society?
7. List five qualities that successful professionals have in
common.
8. List four of the common features of professionalism.
9. List four reasons professionalism is important in the
workplace.
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Activity 4 Case Study
You are in charge of a tiny, privately held company that employs close to 40
people. Important clients are going to drop by your workplace in a little
while. However, your wife calls to tell you that your autistic son is
participating in a dance performance at his school, which is a joyous
occasion for the family. It is exceedingly tough to reschedule the arranged
meeting. Furthermore, if the meeting is a success, your business will get a
lot of new business. For you, the commercial agreement is not as significant
as your son's performance. You request that your personal assistant inform
the clients that the meeting can be rescheduled for tomorrow due to your
illness.
Identify the different personal and professional issues present in the
case. Also, examine whether what was done was right or not. If not,
then what could have been the best way to resolve the situation? 1
Activity 5. Features of professionalism in the workplace
Hidden in the block below are seven features of professionalism. After
reviewing that part, see if you can find and shade them.
Answer
A. Becomes a legal agreement once signed - Code of Conduct
(Typically, code of conduct documents can be legally binding when signed by employees or
members.)
B. Legitimizes ethics. - Code of Ethics
(A code of ethics serves to formalize and legitimize ethical standards within an organization.)
C. Issued by a board of directors - Both
(Both codes can be issued by a board of directors, although it’s often more common for a
code of conduct to be issued.)
D. Allows members to make independent judgments about the most appropriate behavior -
Code of Ethics
(A code of ethics provides overarching ethical principles allowing for independent judgment.)
E. Encourages specific behavior - Code of Conduct
(A code of conduct typically outlines specific behaviors expected of individuals.)
F. A mandatory set of standards that is strictly enforced - Code of Conduct
(Codes of conduct usually have mandatory standards that organizations enforce.)
G. Only provides guidelines for behavior during difficult situations. - Code of Ethics
(Codes of ethics often provide broader ethical guidelines, especially in complex situations.)
H. Ensures standard behavior throughout the organization - Code of Conduct
(A code of conduct is designed to ensure uniform behavioral standards across the
organization.)
1. True Being ethical is not exactly the same as following the law. Ethics involves a set of
moral principles that guide behavior, which may go beyond or differ from legal requirements.
People can act legally but unethically, and vice versa.
2. False A code of conduct is a document that guides ethical decision-making, but it may not
cover all situations and can vary in its application among different members of an organization.
It serves as a framework for expected behavior rather than an exhaustive guide, as unique
circumstances may require additional consideration.
3. False If an employee signs a code of conduct, it does not typically constitute a legal
agreement with the employer in the same way as a contract does. While it may outline
expectations and responsibilities, it is usually more about guiding behavior rather than creating
enforceable legal obligations.
1. Reasons Ethics are Important in the Workplace:
- Trust and Reputation: Ethical behavior fosters trust among employees, clients, and
stakeholders, which is essential for building a positive organizational reputation.
- Decision-Making Framework: Ethics provide a framework for making decisions that align
with the values of the organization, minimizing conflicts and guiding behavior in complex
situations.
2. Aspects Related to Personal Accountability in Workplace Ethics:
- Ownership of Actions: Taking responsibility for one's own decisions and their outcomes.
- Transparency: Being open about actions and decisions, and communicating them honestly.
- Integrity: Consistently adhering to ethical standards in all professional activities.
- Responsiveness: Addressing mistakes promptly and making efforts to rectify them.
- Commitment to Improvement: Actively seeking to learn from experiences and improve
personal conduct.
3. (Note: This point appears incomplete and has no specific question; moving on to the next
one.)
4. Differences Between a Code of Conduct and a Code of Ethics:
- Code of Conduct: This document outlines specific behaviors expected from employees,
including rules and policies governing day-to-day actions. It often includes compliance-related
guidelines.
- Code of Ethics: This document provides a broader philosophy on moral principles and values,
guiding employees' decision-making and ethical behavior based on the organization’s core
beliefs.
5. Benefits of Having a Code:
A. Benefits of a Code of Ethics:
- Guides Behavior: It helps employees make ethical decisions aligned with the organization's
values.
- Enhances Reputation: A strong ethical foundation can improve the company's image and
attract customers and clients.
B. Benefits of a Code of Conduct:
- Sets Clear Expectations: It establishes clear guidelines and standards for employee behavior.
- Reduces Risk: By outlining expected behaviors, it helps mitigate legal risks and compliance
issues.
6. Common Features of All Professions:
- Specialized Knowledge: Professions require specialized training or education in a specific
area of expertise.
- Standards of Practice: Each profession adheres to ethical and performance standards
established by governing bodies or associations.
- Commitment to Service: Professionals typically prioritize serving their clients or the public
interest above personal gain.
7. Importance of Professions and Professionals in Society:
- Professions and professionals provide essential services that improve quality of life, ensure
safety, and contribute to the societal function, fostering trust and stability within communities.
8. Qualities of Successful Professionals:
- Integrity: Consistently demonstrating honesty and strong moral principles.
- Competence: Possessing the necessary skills and knowledge to perform effectively.
- Communication Skills: Ability to convey information clearly and effectively.
- Adaptability: Willingness and ability to adjust to changing conditions and challenges.
- Continuous Learning: Commitment to professional development and staying updated with
industry trends.
9. Common Features of Professionalism:
- Punctuality: Arriving on time and meeting deadlines.
- Respect: Treating colleagues, clients, and stakeholders with courtesy and consideration.
- Appearance: Maintaining a professional demeanor and suitable attire.
- Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and their outcomes.
10. Reasons Professionalism is Important in the Workplace:
- Enhances Productivity: Professional behavior fosters a focused and efficient work
environment.
- Builds Trust: Professionalism builds trust among team members, clients, and
1. Reasons Ethics are Important in the Workplace:
- Trust and Reputation: Ethical behavior fosters trust among employees, clients, and
stakeholders, which is essential for building a positive organizational reputation.
- Decision-Making Framework: Ethics provide a framework for making decisions that align
with the values of the organization, minimizing conflicts and guiding behavior in complex
situations.
2. Aspects Related to Personal Accountability in Workplace Ethics:
- Ownership of Actions: Taking responsibility for one's own decisions and their outcomes.
- Transparency: Being open about actions and decisions, and communicating them honestly.
- Integrity: Consistently adhering to ethical standards in all professional activities.
- Responsiveness: Addressing mistakes promptly and making efforts to rectify them.
- Commitment to Improvement: Actively seeking to learn from experiences and improve
personal conduct.
3. (Note: This point appears incomplete and has no specific question; moving on to the next
one.)
4. Differences Between a Code of Conduct and a Code of Ethics:
- Code of Conduct: This document outlines specific behaviors expected from employees,
including rules and policies governing day-to-day actions. It often includes compliance-related
guidelines.
- Code of Ethics: This document provides a broader philosophy on moral principles and values,
guiding employees' decision-making and ethical behavior based on the organization’s core
beliefs.
5. Benefits of Having a Code:
A. Benefits of a Code of Ethics:
- Guides Behavior: It helps employees make ethical decisions aligned with the organization's
values.
- Enhances Reputation: A strong ethical foundation can improve the company's image and
attract customers and clients.
B. Benefits of a Code of Conduct: - Sets Clear Expectations: It establishes clear guidelines and
standards for employee behavior.
- Reduces Risk: By outlining expected behaviors, it helps mitigate legal risks and compliance
issues.
6. Common Features of All Professions:
- Specialized Knowledge: Professions require specialized training or education in a specific
area of expertise.
- Standards of Practice: Each profession adheres to ethical and performance standards
established by governing bodies or associations.
- Commitment to Service: Professionals typically prioritize serving their clients or the public
interest above personal gain.
7. Importance of Professions and Professionals in Society:
- Professions and professionals provide essential services that improve quality of life, ensure
safety, and contribute to the societal function, fostering trust and stability within communities.
8. Qualities of Successful Professionals:
- Integrity: Consistently demonstrating honesty and strong moral principles.
- Competence: Possessing the necessary skills and knowledge to perform effectively.
- Communication Skills: Ability to convey information clearly and effectively.
- Adaptability: Willingness and ability to adjust to changing conditions and challenges.
- Continuous Learning: Commitment to professional development and staying updated with
industry trends.
9. Common Features of Professionalism:
- Punctuality: Arriving on time and meeting deadlines.
- Respect: Treating colleagues, clients, and stakeholders with courtesy and consideration.
- Appearance: Maintaining a professional demeanor and suitable attire.
- Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and their outcomes.
10. Reasons Professionalism is Important in the Workplace:
- Enhances Productivity: Professional behavior fosters a focused and efficient work
environment.
- Builds Trust: Professionalism builds trust among team members, clients, and stakeholders.
- Promotes Positive Culture: It contributes to a positive workplace culture that encourages
collaboration and respect.
- Attracts Talent: Organizations known for professionalism are more likely to attract high-
quality talent.
In this scenario, there are several personal and professional issues at play.
Personal Issues:
1. Family Commitment: The father has a personal obligation to attend his son's dance
performance, which is significant for both the child and the family.
2. Emotional Value: The event holds emotional importance, particularly for an autistic child, as
it represents an achievement and a joyful occasion for the family.
3. Work-Life Balance: The situation pulls at the balance between personal responsibilities as a
parent and professional responsibilities as a business owner.
Professional Issues:
1. Client Relationships: The scheduled meeting with important clients is critical for the
business, potentially leading to new contracts and growth.
2. Business Reputation: Cancelling or postponing a meeting could negatively affect the
perception of the business by the clients, who may view it as unprofessional or disorganized.
3. Responsibility to Employees: As the leader of a small company, the decisions made impact
not only clients but also employees who may rely on the business’s success for their jobs.
Assessment of the Action Taken:
While the decision to prioritize a family event over business matters reflects personal values
and parental priorities, it also involves a potential negative impact on professional relationships.
From a professional standpoint, informing the clients that the meeting has to be rescheduled
due to “illness” may not be the most transparent or ethical approach, and it could undermine
trust if clients find out the real reason later.
Potentially Better Solutions:
1. Open Communication: Instead of citing illness, the owner could be candid with the clients
about the situation, expressing the importance of attending his son's performance. This
approach demonstrates honesty and integrity.
2. Rescheduling with Context: The owner could suggest rescheduling the meeting while briefly
explaining the importance of the family event, thereby fostering understanding and goodwill
among the clients.
3. Delegation: If possible, the owner could delegate attendance to another qualified member of
the team, ensuring that the meeting proceeds without him while still allowing him to attend the
performance.
4. Flexible Timing: The owner could explore the option of adjusting the meeting time to
accommodate both events, if feasible, such as scheduling a morning meeting before the
performance.
Ultimately, the best resolution blends transparency, respect for personal obligations, and
responsibility toward professional commitments. In a small company, creating a culture that
values both personal and professional life can enhance loyalty and appreciation from both
employees and clients.