ETHICS ENTRY 2

CASE 1

What should she do?

ANSWER:
Diane should show a demonstration or simulation of the effects that could happen with the weak security produced on the requested system. Being an adviser, she is well-aware of all the risks they are taking. Even if the client's willing to take the risks, Diane should follow one of the core values of the code of ethics, Priorities (4.3.1), which says "I must place the interests of the community above those of personal or sectional interests." and some of its sub-components. Diane should also follow "I must make myself aware of relevant standards, and act accordingly." (4.6.3) which might mean to use the proper security standards for risks in such system as proposed.

Should she refuse to build the system as they request?

ANSWER:
With the given rules, Diane should continue advising her client no matter what or reject the project to prevent ethical dilemma that is at risk. and if things go wrong, it's her responsibility.

a.)
Priorities (4.3.1)
I must place the interests of the community above those of personal or sectional interests.
Competence (4.3.2)
I must work competently and diligently for my clients and employers.

b.)
4.5.1
I must endeavour to preserve continuity of information technology services and information flow in my care.
4.5.2
I must endeavour to preserve the integrity and security of the information of others.
4.5.3
I must respect the proprietary nature of the information of others.
4.5.4
I must endeavour to preserve the confidentiality of the information of others.
4.5.5
I must advise my client or employer of any potential conflicts of interest between my assignment and legal or other accepted community requirements.
4.5.6
I must advise my clients and employers as soon as possible of any conflicts of interest or conscientious objections which face me in connection with my work.
4.6.3
I must make myself aware of relevant standards, and act accordingly.
4.6.4
I must respect and protect my clients' and employers' proprietary interests.
4.6.5
I must accept responsibility for my work.


CASE 2

Can she continue with the evaluation?

ANSWER:
No she cannot continue with the evaluation. Even if she makes an evalutaion it will be for nothing, because of the violations the GUI of Company a commited, which will require them to change the design.

If she cannot continue with the evaluation, how does she inform Company A of the patent violation?

ANSWER:
She must write a letter or inform Company A that the GUI they used has already been patented and thus warn them of the possible law suits if they decide to continue with their current GUI.

Does she have an obligation to let Company B know Company A has copied their GUI?

ANSWER:
No. Her obligation is to inform Company A that their GUI design has already been patented by a different company and must change it to avoid conflicts.


a) Values and Ideals (from Section 4.3 ACS Code of Ethics)

4.3.1 Priorities
4.3.2 Competence
4.3.3 Honesty

b) Identify the specific standard that should apply (From sections 4.5.1 to 4.10.9)

4.5.3 I must respect the proprietary nature of the
information of others.
4.5.5 I must advise my client or employer of any potential
conflicts of interest between my assignment and
legal or other accepted community requirements.
4.6.3 I must make myself aware of relevant standards,
and act accordingly.
4.6.6 I must advise my clients and employers when I
believe a proposed project is not in their best
interest.
4.7.1 I must not knowingly mislead a client or potential
client as to the suitability of a product or service.