Project management involves many processes and knowledge areas in which the manager needs to adhere to ethical standards and norms. One such area is resource management where one of the central values is responsibility. By this principle, a manager can only accept projects within their competence area. Therefore, it is essential to responsibly collect client requirements for the project and evenly distribute resources. In addition, the project manager must ensure the timely implementation of the obligations assumed and clearly understand how long the task will take to complete.
Disposing of labor resources within the framework of the project is necessary to be honest and fair. The project manager should not show special treatment to any of the employees. It is crucial to allocate responsibilities among team members by their professional skills and competencies and evenly distribute the workload. Moreover, if a mistake is made, including in resource management, the manager must honestly admit it and take the necessary measures to correct it.
Another knowledge area of project management in which applying ethical standards is necessary is communications management. All communication must be based on the respect and honesty of each party. Regardless of the interlocutor’s behavior, the project manager must behave professionally. If the client does not fully understand the nuances of the project, the manager’s task is to explain all the incomprehensible points and, at the same time, not show signs of a superior attitude.
Moreover, in communicating with clients, it is vital to adhere to the principles of honesty and openness, to share information about the current state of the project and emerging issues promptly, and to explain one’s position and decisions made reasonably. It is essential to adhere to the same principles in communication with employees. If all team members clearly understand the tasks and goals, they will work to achieve them. Furthermore, honest reporting will help to avoid misinterpretation, speculation, rumors, and conflicts in the workplace.