PMI Code of Ethics
4
Values
Responsibility, Respect, Fairness, Honesty
2
Standard Types
Mandatory and aspirational
0
Exceptions
No cultural or authority excuses for unethical acts
the four values are your compass · check every decision against them
The PMI Compass
when two answers both seem right, the ethical one wins · always the tiebreaker
Mandatory vs Aspirational
mandatory · enforced
Must do. Must not do.
Violating these can lead to loss of PMI credentials and disciplinary action.
aspirational · expected
Should strive for.
Ideals PMs pursue. Not punitive, but still tested — PMI considers this the character of a professional.
Exam Traps
You must report unethical conduct, even if it involves your boss
Looking the other way is never correct. The PMI Code requires reporting, regardless of the person involved. Answers that protect the sponsor or manager at the expense of ethics are wrong.
Gifts during source selection are always a conflict
Regardless of value, accepting a gift from a vendor during source selection is a conflict of interest. The exam uses small dollar amounts to tempt candidates into saying "it is only a coffee."
Truthful reporting is mandatory, even when the news is bad
Softening a bad status report to protect the sponsor or the project is a violation of honesty. The exam tests whether you would misreport to avoid conflict.
When two answers look right, pick the ethical one
If you are torn between a procedurally correct answer and an ethically correct answer, the ethical answer wins. This is a reliable tiebreaker on exam day.
Ethics is the tiebreaker
When you are stuck between two plausible answers, the one that reflects honesty, fairness, and responsibility is usually correct.
No cultural relativism
Cultural differences do not excuse bribery or discrimination. PMI expects universal ethical standards regardless of local practice.
A good referee owns their decisions. Missed calls get acknowledged. Fixed problems get documented. The PM is responsible for the outcomes of their actions and inactions.
Referees do not favor the home team. PMs treat every stakeholder, vendor, and team member with consideration — regardless of status, power, or culture.
Decisions about resources, responsibilities, and opportunities are based on merit, not favoritism. Conflicts of interest get disclosed, not hidden.
A referee cannot lie about a call even if the crowd hates it. The PM reports the truth about status, risks, and problems — even when it is unpopular.
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