Practitioner Application of Ethics in Ethical Decision-Making Within Projects: A Process Theory View

Abstract

This study examines the approach and range of thinking project management practitioners apply when dealing with issues that have ethical considerations. This article presents a nuanced view of processual engagement with ethics rather than a narrower decision model-based approach based on responses to various ethically challenging scenarios that may confront project managers. Based on qualitative data from a more extensive study we find that practitioner considerations regarding specific ethical decisions range from precursors to the development of a situation as a problem through particular actions and decisions, to potential ways that adverse outcomes can be remediated, and positive ones enhanced. We find that these concerns arise in addition to ethical decision-making considering all three core ethical views collectively, though not necessarily by each individual. The findings suggest broadening the investigation of ethical behavior from making better judgments to structuring the environment where such choices are made, laying solid foundations for ensuring positive choices, and working with even poor choices when they are still the best available to mitigate and control consequences.

Implementation of international project management at the educational establishment

“…In addition, implementing international projects in education comes with a set of challenges, many of which stem from the diverse and complex nature of cross-border collaborations. Findings show that these challenges include cultural dirfferences (varied cultural norms, values, and communication styles) (Jones et al, 2020); language barriers (differences in language proficiency among participants that hinder effective communication and collaboration) (Henderson, 2005); logistical issues (challenges related to the planning, coordination, and execution of various activities involved in the project) (Rajesh et al, 2023); financial considerations (managing budgets, navigating currency exchange rates, securing funding, and ensuring financial transparency) (Kurowska-Pysz & Szczepańska-Woszczyna, 2017); technology limitations (inadequate access to technology, varying levels of technological proficiency, and compatibility issues) (Roshchin et al, 2022); resistance to change (resistance from stakeholders to new teaching methods, approaches, or collaborative models) (Hubbart, 2023); ethical considerations (decisions oriented towards cultural appropriateness, fairness, and inclusivity (Baker & Niederman, 2023).…”