SEMESTER SPRING 2023
BUSINESS ETHICS (MGT610)
ASSIGNMENT NO. 01
DUE DATE: APRIL 29, 2024 MARKS: 10
Topic: Utilitarianism
TechEon, a multinational corporation in the technology sector, is considering establishing a
manufacturing plant in a South- East Asian Country, called Asiana, known for its lower
labour costs and favourable tax regulations. However, recent reports from human rights
organisations and media channels have raised concerns about labour practices in Asiana. The
reports highlight instances of labour exploitation, including long working hours, unsafe
working conditions, and limited workers' rights protections.
Despite these reports, TechEon sees the potential economic benefits of establishing the
manufacturing plant in Asiana. The company's executives believe that the lower production
costs and access to a skilled workforce outweigh the ethical concerns raised by the reports.
To address the ethical dilemma, TechEon decides to conduct a cost-benefit analysis using
utilitarian principles. They aim to determine whether the economic benefits of establishing
the manufacturing plant in that Asiana outweigh the potential negative impacts on workers'
rights and well-being.
During the cost-benefit analysis, TechEon considers various factors, including labour costs,
regulatory compliance expenses, potential reputation damage, and societal impact. They
assign monetary values to each factor and assess the net impact on stakeholders, including
workers, shareholders, customers, and the broader community.
After completing the analysis, TechEon concludes that the economic benefits of establishing
the manufacturing plant in Asiana offset the potential negative impacts on workers' rights and
well-being. They decide to move forward with their plans to establish the plant, emphasizing
their commitment to complying with labour laws and improving working conditions in
Asiana.
Requirement:
Question 1: Explain how TechEon can incorporate ethical considerations into its decision-
making process regarding the expansion to Asiana. Provide four specific actions or strategies
that TechEon can implement to ensure ethical business practices in the new location. (4
Marks)
Question 2: Discuss the potential consequences for TechEon if it prioritises profit over
ethics in its expansion to Asiana. Identify three negative outcomes that the company may face
because of disregarding ethical considerations. (3 Marks)
Question 3: Evaluate the role of stakeholders in influencing TechEon decision-making
process regarding the expansion to Asiana. Also, identify three key stakeholders who may
have a vested interest in the company's actions and explain how their prospects could impact
TechEon’s ethical considerations and strategic decisions. (3 Marks)
INSTRUCTIONS
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used to deal with emergencies; and above-mentioned due date should always be treated as final
to avoid any inconvenience. To open the assignment file, you must have Adobe Acrobat
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the course video lectures and read additional material available online in the form of related
articles and case studies or in any other mode.
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size “12”. It is advised to compose your document in MS-Word format ONLY. You may also
compose your assignment in Open Office format. Use black or blue font colours ONLY.
Other Important Instructions:
Deadline:
• Make sure to upload the solution file before the due date on VULMS.
• Any submission made via email after the due date will not be accepted.
Rules for Marking:
Please note that your assignment will not be graded or graded as Zero (0), if:
• It is submitted after the due date.
• The file you uploaded does not open or is corrupt.
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etc.
• It is cheated or copied from other students, internet, books, journals etc.
Note related to load shedding: Please be proactive
Dear students!
As you know that pre mid-term semester activities have started and load shedding problem is
also prevailing in our country. Keeping in view the fact, you all are advised to post your
activities as early as possible without waiting for the due date.
