The degree of enforcement of company policies, procedures, and ethical codes is a major force affecting opportunity. Most authorities agree that there is room for improvement in business ethics. A more problematic issue is whether business can be made more ethical in the real world. The majority of viewpoints on this issue suggest that government, trade associations, and individual firms can establish acceptable levels of behavior. The government can establish acceptable levels of behavior by passing more stringent regulations.
Trade associations can provide and often do provide ethical guidelines for their members to follow.
These associations are in a position to exert pressure on members who stoop to questionable business practices. Enforcement varies from association to association. Employees can more easily determine acceptable behavior if their company provides them with a code of ethics. However, codes cannot possibly cover every situation. Companies must also create an environment in which employees recognize the importance of following the written code.