Developing An Effective Integrity Program WHAT AN INTEGRITY PROGRAM WILL DO FOR SPORTS Scandals have become as much a part of sports as players, officials, and spectators, and surely it won’t be long before today’s outrage is replaced by fresh indignation over some other antics, be they on-field or after hours. Just as most government and private industries have moved towards adopting formal integrity and compliance programs, so it is high time sports leagues and teams realize they too need formal programs to detect and correct wrongdoing that can tear down reputations and institutions
Put simply, compliance programs are designed to establish a culture within an organization that promotes prevention, detection, and resolution of instances of conduct that do not conform to federal and state law, as well as the organization’s ethical and business policies. Adopting a formal integrity program sends a clear signal throughout the organization and to the general public that decent and legal behavior is expected. Such a program is the foundation for nurturing and building a culture that promotes integrity and ethical behavior.
While many sports organizations have some of the essential elements that are needed, few, if any, have designed and implemented effective enterprise-wide programs. The elements of an effective program include:
Appropriate organizational structure demonstrating top management’s commitment to integrity and ethics. This may require significant cultural change for some organizations.
Appointment of a dedicated integrity officer reporting directly to top management who dedicates significant time and energy to the design and management of the entire program. It is essential that this person enjoys the respect of others in the organization and has a reputation for being trustworthy.
Written standards and guidelines listing the do’s and don’ts of the organization. Such standards and guidelines send a clear signal throughout the organization and to the general public that decent and legal behavior is expected of all.
Orientation of new personnel and ongoing education and training. All individuals within an organization have a need to understand the expectations to which they will be held accountable.
A formal process for receiving tips and complaints confidentially, best accomplished through an outsourced hotline. Experience indicates individuals are more likely to report suspect behavior if they can do so anonymously.
A process for prompt investigation and resolution of any reported infractions. Above all, sports organizations should respond promptly to complaints and allegations. Individuals should have the confidence their concerns will be taken seriously. How an organization deals with violators will go a long way towards establishing the integrity of its integrity program. Many observers recommend publicizing disciplinary actions for their deterrent effect.
Periodic checks and monitoring are necessary to ensure the program is being followed, and to enable appropriate adjustments.
Balthasar Gracian once noted, “One hint of scandal freezes much honorable sweat.”
Well-designed, effective integrity programs eliminate the embarrassments that roil sports every season. Well-structured programs that have the support of top leaders in the organization would be a huge first step towards ma king it clear ethical behavior is expected and there will be consequences for transgressors.
Authors:
Richard P. Kusserow is CEO, Strategic Management Services in Alexandria, Virginia and served 11 years as inspector general at U.S. Health and Human Services.
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