Amy Baxter posted Apr 5, 2025 11:58 PM Hi Dr. Martinez and Class, Subscribe Esteban is not performing in a professional manner when using Summerfield Consulting Co.'s equipment, namely the computers and laser printers. Company equipment is usually for the sole purpose of the company's activities. Although the information does not specify an agreement on the terms of equipment usage, I find it hard to believe the company would tolerate use for personal gain, even if the work is not done on the company clock. The fact that Esteban's clients are phoning him during work hours should definitely be a violation of work policy. I feel there may be a direct conflict of interest in this situation-what type of consulting does Summerfield Consulting engage in? If it's accounting, tax, or financial investment related, Esteban may be in an even stickier situation. His actions create an environment of mistrust, whether or not he is guilty. Is he offering his clients advice that Summerfield would charge a fee for? On the company dime? If a were the company's manager, I would first need to review what, if any, policies exist barring the use of company equipment for personal gain. If such a policy exists (as it should), I would distribute a reminder to all management and employees, thus putting into writing (as evidence) what is acceptable and unacceptable regarding the use of company equipment. I would be sure to include that misappropriation of company resources is generally an unethical practice and may be deemed an illegal act, prompting necessary legal action and possible employment termination. If Esteban or any other employee continue to misappropriate actions, it is actually theft from the company and should be treated as such. When an employee engages in this behavior, the company is at risk financially, ethically and legally. Also, should it be made public, it can affect the reputation of the company and create trust issues when dealing with potential investors, clients, and businesses.

Amy Baxter posted Apr 5, 2025 11:58 PM Hi Dr. Martinez and Class, Subscribe Esteban is not performing in a professional manner when using Summerfield Consulting Co.'s equipment, namely the computers and laser printers. Company equipment is usually for the sole purpose of the company's activities. Although the information does not specify an agreement on the terms of equipment usage, I find it hard to believe the company would tolerate use for personal gain, even if the work is not done on the company clock. The fact that Esteban's clients are phoning him during work hours should definitely be a violation of work policy. I feel there may be a direct conflict of interest in this situation-what type of consulting does Summerfield Consulting engage in? If it's accounting, tax, or financial investment related, Esteban may be in an even stickier situation. His actions create an environment of mistrust, whether or not he is guilty. Is he offering his clients advice that Summerfield would charge a fee for? On the company dime? If a were the company's manager, I would first need to review what, if any, policies exist barring the use of company equipment for personal gain. If such a policy exists (as it should), I would distribute a reminder to all management and employees, thus putting into writing (as evidence) what is acceptable and unacceptable regarding the use of company equipment. I would be sure to include that misappropriation of company resources is generally an unethical practice and may be deemed an illegal act, prompting necessary legal action and possible employment termination. If Esteban or any other employee continue to misappropriate actions, it is actually theft from the company and should be treated as such. When an employee engages in this behavior, the company is at risk financially, ethically and legally. Also, should it be made public, it can affect the reputation of the company and create trust issues when dealing with potential investors, clients, and businesses.

Business Its Legal Ethical & Global Environment

10th Edition

ISBN:9781305224414

Author:JENNINGS

Publisher:JENNINGS

Chapter10: Cyberlaw, Social Media, And Privacy

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 4QAP

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