A code of ethics is a set of rules used as a guide for companies to demonstrate the expected behavior from the employees. The main purpose of these regulations is to conduct employee’s actions in accordance with values and ethical standards (Business Dictionary, 2016). In software engineering, it is almost the same rules that are applied to every software company with just a few variations.
This code of ethics was created by the Association for Computing Machinery in association with the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers. It is divided in the following eight principles:
- Public: Act consistently with the public interest. Software engineers shall accept full responsibly of their work. Also, commit to making its software error free and usable.
- Client and employer: Know their limitants and act in a manner that is in the best interest of their client and employer.
- Product: Engineers must ensure that their products meet the highest professional standards possible
- Judgment: Maintain integrity and independence in their professional judgment
- Management: Ensure good management and maintenance according to an ethical approach
- Profession: shall advance the integrity and reputation of the profession consistent with the public interest
- Colleagues: Software engineers shall be fair and supportive with their colleagues.
- Self: Engineers must promote an ethical environment and participate in a lifelong learning
References:
Association for Computing Machinery. (1999). Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice. August 8th, 2016, from ACM. Website: http://www.acm.org/about/se-code
Business Dictionary. (2016). Code of ethics. August 8th, 2016, from Business Dictionary. Website: http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/code-of-ethics.html
