Fairness (Ethical Principle)
Fairness is the PMI ethical principle requiring practitioners to make decisions and act impartially and objectively, free from self-interest, prejudice, and favoritism.
Explanation
Fairness in the PMI Code of Ethics demands that project managers conduct themselves with transparency and objectivity. This applies to procurement decisions, team assignments, performance evaluations, stakeholder treatment, and conflict resolution. The principle ensures that no stakeholder group receives preferential treatment at the expense of another.
Aspirational standards encourage practitioners to demonstrate transparency in decision-making, constantly reexamine their own impartiality, and provide equal access to information for those authorized to receive it. Mandatory standards require disclosure of real or potential conflicts of interest, refraining from hiring or rewarding based on personal favoritism, and never discriminating against others.
Exam scenarios about fairness frequently involve procurement situations, vendor selection, or resource allocation where a project manager has a personal connection or interest that could bias the decision. The correct answer always involves disclosure and recusal when objectivity cannot be maintained.
Key Points
- •Make decisions impartially, free from favoritism and prejudice
- •Provide equal access to information for authorized stakeholders
- •Disclose conflicts of interest proactively and fully
- •Do not discriminate or show favoritism in hiring, rewards, or assignments
Exam Tip
In vendor selection or hiring scenarios, if you have any personal relationship with a candidate, the correct first step is always to disclose the conflict of interest to the appropriate parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct
The PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct is a foundational document that establishes the ethical expectations and behavioral standards for all PMI members, volunteers, and certification holders.
Conflict of Interest
A conflict of interest occurs when a practitioner’s personal interests, relationships, or outside activities could improperly influence their professional judgment or decision-making on a project.
Honesty (Ethical Principle)
Honesty is the PMI ethical principle requiring practitioners to understand the truth and act in a truthful manner, both in communications and in conduct.
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Power/Influence Grid
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Part of
Ethics & Professional Responsibility
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