Other solutions to prevent bad choices or unethical conduct can include a system of crisis management. Typically, breakdowns occur when the organization is frequently or always in the reactive mode, putting out the fires and then playing catch up. This type of situation is one that is ripe for the occurrence of unethical conduct. Proper planning and foresight can diffuse an emergency situation before it even happens. Organizations that establish and communicate clear standards and guidelines for dealing with urgent or emergency situations are in a better position to avoid falling into the reactive mode and chancing the occurrence of unethical behavior than organizations that have no such plan.
Good communication is another key factor in promoting ethical behavior within one s organization.
The lines of communication must remain open from top to bottom, across the board. Employees should be encouraged to discuss ethical situations or decision-making dilemmas with supervisors or colleagues. Individuals who have a leadership role should pay particular attention to how assignments and decisions are communicated to their staff. Some lawyers may believe that their behavior as a lawyer is governed only by the rules of professional responsibility that are enforced in the jurisdictions in which they practice. This is a dangerous perception.