Communicating an Ethical Dilemma

Part 1 should be 3 double-spaced pages.

Part 2 should be 1 double-spaced page.

Part 1: Analyze the Scenario

Using at least two of the provided scenarios:

• Analyze the ethical decision that the whistleblower faced as it relates to how they communicated.
• Consider the sender, receiver, message, and channel.
• Analyze the outcomes of the communication strategy.
• Make sure to consider how the communication was distributed, the possible intent, and the content of the communication.
• Describe the effectiveness of the communication in the scenario.
• Focus on how specific events were influenced by the communication.
• What were the primary failures and successes?

Part 2: Write a Communication

Imagine that you are working in the same industry as the whistleblower in your chosen scenario and have followed this sequence of events closely. Your research has provided you with a great deal that can be applied to your industry, and you are anxious to share your lessons learned from the situation.

• Write a communication to a colleague that conveys and reinforces the primary lessons learned from the incident.
• Be sure to focus on the actions of the whistleblower in your communication.
• The medium is your choice, but it is also very important, so state the medium you have chosen within your message and the reason you feel it is the most appropriate medium to use. Address possible reasons such as confidentiality, tone, and convention.

Boeing – In 2017, The Boeing Company introduced a new generation of its venerable 737aircraft called the 737 Max, featuring design and equipment modifications which changed in-flight characteristics compared to previous 737 aircraft. These changes were not fully communicated to all airline customers in 737 Max training materials, leading to two high-profile fatal airline crashes in 2018 and 2019. These crashes caused significant ripples in the airline industry, and negatively impacted Boeings reputation as an aircraft manufacturer. Boeing had multiple whistleblowers that raised safety and quality concerns. One of these was John Barnett, a quality control manager at Boeing, who reported his findings to management and the FAA.

OceanGate – In June 2023, the OceanGate submersible Titan embarked on a voyage to the wreck of the Titanic with five passengers, including the CEO, on board. The submersible experienced a catastrophic hull failure, resulting in the loss of the vessel and all passengers. David Lochridge, the director of marine operations, expressed concerns about the safety of the ship years prior to the disaster.