Distributing Reports; Communications Ethics: Resolving Ethical Dilemmas [LO-1], Chapter 1 Your organization is in the unfortunate position of having to cut its costs because in the continuing difficult economic trading conditions, sales and profits have reduced significantly. There have been a number of means of achieving a cost reduction discussed by the senior management team, of which, one option is to explore the feasibility of downsizing meaning that reducing numbers of staff is a possibility.

You have been asked to work with three colleagues on a confidential basis to produce a report that examines the options for this possibility. You must analyze costs make recommendations for achieving a fixed cash reduction with minimal loss of personnel. Confidentiality must be maintained because the final decision rests with the senior management team and your recommendations may not be implemented.

Two members of the management team approach you and ask you to speed up the production of your report so that they can read it and make some decisions prior to the rest of the management team receiving it and meeting to discuss it. Discuss your options and obligations in this situation and decide upon a course of action that is ethical and fair to all parties.