Ethical Decision Making Framework Worksheet

Company Letterhead

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Phone: {{phone}}

Email: {{email}}

Website: {{website}}

Ethical Decision-Making Framework Worksheet

Date: {{date}}

Prepared By: {{preparer_name}}

Department: {{department}}

Title of Dilemma/Situation: {{dilemma_title}}

1. Identify the Ethical Dilemma

Clearly and concisely describe the ethical dilemma or situation. What are the key facts? Who are the stakeholders involved? What are the potential conflicts of interest or values?

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2. Gather Relevant Information

What information is needed to make an informed decision? Who can provide this information? What policies, procedures, or laws are relevant?

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Sources of Information: {{information_sources}}

Relevant Policies/Laws: {{relevant_policies}}

3. Identify Possible Courses of Action

List all plausible courses of action, including those that may seem unappealing at first. Brainstorm different approaches.

Option 1: {{option_1}}

Option 2: {{option_2}}

Option 3: {{option_3}}

Other Options: {{other_options}}

4. Evaluate Each Course of Action

For each option, consider the following:

a) Ethical Principles/Values: Which ethical principles (e.g., honesty, fairness, non-maleficence, beneficence) are upheld or violated by this action?

b) Stakeholder Impact: Who will be affected by this action, and how (positive and negative consequences)? Consider employees, customers, shareholders, community, etc.

c) Legal/Policy Compliance: Does this action comply with company policies, local laws, and regulations?

d) Long-term Consequences: What are the potential long-term impacts of this action?

e) Transparency & Reputation: How would this decision look if it were made public? What is the impact on the company's reputation?

Evaluation of Option 1: {{evaluation_option_1}}

Evaluation of Option 2: {{evaluation_option_2}}

Evaluation of Option 3: {{evaluation_option_3}}

5. Make a Decision and Justify It

Based on your evaluation, choose the best course of action. Clearly articulate your decision and provide a robust justification, referencing the ethical principles and impacts considered.

Decision: {{final_decision}}

Justification: {{decision_justification}}

6. Implement the Decision and Monitor Outcomes

Outline the steps required to implement the chosen decision. How will its effectiveness be monitored? What are the contingency plans if unintended consequences arise?

Implementation Steps: {{implementation_steps}}

Monitoring Plan: {{monitoring_plan}}

Contingency Plan: {{contingency_plan}}

Signature Block

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{{approver_name}}

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Date: {{approval_date}}