Decision Making Process - Ethical Decisions

How can managers ensure they are making ethical decisions?

Ans:

Any decision that managers make should be ethical. Any decision that managers make should meet the “spotlight questions” test of Step 3 of the decision-making process. The “spotlight questions” test should address two spotlight questions: “How would I feel if my family found out about this decision?” and “How would I feel if this decision were published in the local newspaper?” If a manager experiences any discomfort in answering these questions honestly, the decision probably has ethical shortcomings. In addition to the two spotlight questions, managers should ask and answer the following questions:

•       Does the decision satisfy all constituents or stakeholders?

•       Does the decision respect the rights and duties of everyone?

•       Is the decision consistent with the canons of justice?

•       Is the decision consistent with my responsibilities to care?

Source: Management, 11th Edition - John R. Schermerhorn