Monday, April 16, 2012

Chapter 1 Case# 3. Is There a Place for Ethics in It?


Discussion Question

1. Discuss how a CIO might handle Schrage’s scenarios using the suggested process for ethical decision making presented in this chapter.

Answer:

      CIO magazine entitled “Ethics, Schematics,” which stirred up a great deal of controversy in the IT community. In the article, Schrage proposed that CIOs(chief information officers) “should stop trying to do the ‘right thing’ when implementing IT and focus instead on getting their implementations right.” Schrage argued that ethics had become a buzzword, just like quality in the 1980s; he asserted that the demand for ethical behavior interferes with business efficiency.

2. Discuss the possible short-tem losses ad long-term gains in implementing ethical solutions for each of Schrage’s scenarios.

Answer:

      Some readers argued that CIOs must consider the company’s long-term needs rather than just the current needs of a specific project. Others argued that engaging in unethical behavior, even for the best of purposes, crosses a line that eventually leads to more serious transgressions. Some readers suspected that Schrage had published the article to provoke outrage.

3. Must business choose between good ethics and financial benefits?  Explain your answer using Schrage’s scenarios examples.

  
Answer:

      Another reader had actually worked under an unproductive, reactive, meddling boss. Based on his experience, he suggested speaking to the boss about the problem at an appropriate time and place. In addition, the reader explained that as situations arose that required him to convey important information that might elicit interface; he developed action plans and made firm presentations to his boss.  The boss, the reader assured Schrage, will adapt.

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