Question

Anna is a young ambitious programmer working for a small company developing software for web based services in the health area, with a focus on support to remote aboriginal communities. To further her career Anna undertakes additional tertiary study, with support from her manager, Brian. This study includes topics covering computer ethics, and issues relating to the impact of ICT on different communities. On her current project, Anna develops a new user interface, which has a strong focus on accessibility for remote communities, especially considering the type of technology likely to be used. She also pays special attention to the use of cultural images in the interface, to avoid those which may be distressing or offensive to aboriginal users. The new system is a great success and Anna’s contribution is recognised by her company, through an Employee of the Month Award. The company also receives a national business award for its contribution to the positive use of ICT in aboriginal communities. Brian takes all of the credit for this, and Anna receives no acknowledgement for her efforts. Source:

ACS Case Studies 2014 Essay

Questions 1. Assess the major ethical issues in this business case.

2. How may the ACS Code of Professional Conduct assist in resolving such ethical implications? Relate to the key values and clauses of the Code of Professional Conduct.

Answer 1

Answer

First question we need to identify the major ethical issue in this business case so below i provide a short note about it.

1.

Ethical issues are found in life and at work.

It takes a keen eye and an understanding of numerous issues to identify ethical issues in the workplace. Some of the things you must consider understand are:

• The potential ethical issues/categories you should be on the lookout for
• The fine line between an ethical or unethical act within each category
• Company policies with respect to an ethical issue

Let's break down each point a bit more. We'll pretend that you work for a general construction company. As with any work environment, some general types of ethical issues you are more likely to encounter include:

• Bribes
• Conflicts of interest or loyalty
• Harassment
• Whistle blowing
• Honesty and integrity

2. Now we consider how ACS Code of Professional Conduct assist in resolving such ethical implications

An essential characteristic of a profession is the need for its members to abide by a code of ethics. For the ACS, this code is established as the Code of Professional Conduct and is part of the Society's Regulations. These Regulations apply to any ACS member who works in the field of information and communications technology (ICT)

As an ACS member you must uphold and advance the honour, dignity and effectiveness of being a professional. This entails, in addition to being a good citizen and acting within the law, your conformance to the following ACS values.

1. The Primacy of the Public Interest You will place the interests of the public above those of personal, business or sectional interests.

2. The Enhancement of Quality of Life You will strive to enhance the quality of life of those affected by your work.

3. Honesty You will be honest in your representation of skills, knowledge, services and products.

4. Competence You will work competently and diligently for your stakeholders.

5. Professional Development You will enhance your own professional development, and that of your staff.

6. Professionalism You will enhance the integrity of the ACS and the respect of its members for each other.