Foundation of Ethics and Integrity
The construction industry is constantly faced with a perception of corruption. While it is unfair to paint everybody in the industry with such a broad brush, there is sound reason for such concern. In a recent survey of Owners, ethical practices topped the list of concerns as they relate to the construction industry.
Ethics have been defined as a code of morality. Morality is difficult to define today as our society has determined that morality changes with circumstances. Benchmark Construction Management has determined to use the Bible as their benchmark for morality, a standard that does not change. Even within those guidelines, some areas in the construction industry are considered by many as “gray” areas. To be clear, Benchmark Construction Management considers bid shopping, reverse auctions, over-billing, over-pricing change orders, payment games (holding a subcontractors payment after being paid), etc., all to be considered unethical practices. Additionally, Benchmark Construction Management, Inc. has adopted a CMAA Code of Ethics that has been published by the Construction Management Association of America.
Benchmark Construction Management, Inc. defines INTEGRITY by the following:
- Honor all commitments.
- Treat all parties fairly and equitably; with respect.
- Assume responsibility - take the blame when things go bad and share the glory when things go well.
Integrity is so closely related to ethics that is it difficult to separate the two; therefore we have combined the two to serve as our foundation upon which our Five Pillars of Commitment shall be built.
Five Pillars of Commitment
Pillar One: Commitment to providing competent leadership.
Pillar Two: Commitment to professionalism in all matters – the way we speak, dress and conduct business.
Pillar Three: Commitment to personal growth and development of all employees.
Pillar Four: Commitment to promoting Esprit de Corps in all collaborative efforts. Esprit de Corps is the common spirit existing in the members of a group and inspiring enthusiasm, devotion and a strong regard for the honor of the group.
Pillar Five: Commitment to generosity by giving a minimum of 15% of the corporate profits back to the employees and to charity.
Upon these pillars rests the capstone of EXCELLENCE – the “benchmark” by which all in the construction industry may be measured.
