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Competing Professional Obligations

publish date: 2026/06/06 23:08:32.837969 UTC

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In the previous scenario (conflicting interpretations), which professional obligations are in tension? Select all that apply.

Professional obligation not to knowingly allow increased costs when you have relevant knowledge

Your personal financial interest in avoiding conflict with either employer

Duty to act in the best interests of your current employer

Professional duty of integrity — not withholding information that is relevant to the project's success

Confidentiality obligation to your previous employer

Correct Answer

(1) Duty to act in the best interests of your current employer

(2) Confidentiality obligation to your previous employer

(3) Professional obligation not to knowingly allow increased costs when you have relevant knowledge

(4) Professional duty of integrity — not withholding information that is relevant to the project's success

Explanation

The genuine ethical tensions are between: (1) duty to your current employer, (2) confidentiality to your previous employer, (3) professional obligation to prevent known harm (increased costs), and (4) professional integrity. Your personal financial interest in avoiding conflict is a self-interest consideration, not a professional ethical obligation.

Reference

Software Engineering, Ian Sommerville, 9th edition

Quizzes you can take where this question appears

Applied Requirements Engineering - Exercises