Engineering managers are responsible for developing, designing, and implementing technology in their organizations. As technology advances, it’s important to consider the ethical implications of technology adoption. Ethical considerations are critical to ensure that technology is used responsibly. Responsibility from an ethical perspective goes beyond the organization’s division of labor through Responsibility Assignment matrices or RACI charts. There are several ethical frameworks, including virtue ethics, deontology, utilitarianism, etc. which can be used to enable decisions that align with the principles and values of the chosen ethical framework.
One reason why ethics is important in technology adoption is that technology can significantly impact society. For example, algorithms based on commercial data can allow firms to sell products they assume we can afford and avoid showing us products they assume we cannot. Technologies can also be morally contentious by “forcing deep reflection on personal values and societal norms”. Therefore, engineering managers must ensure that technology is developed and deployed in a way that is fair and equitable for all.
Another reason why ethics is important in technology adoption is that technology can have adverse effects on people. Technology can threaten individual autonomy, violate privacy rights, and directly harm individuals financially and physically. Therefore, engineering managers must ensure that technology is developed and deployed in a way that is safe and secure.
Ethics is an essential consideration for engineering managers when adopting new technologies. It’s important to ensure that technology is developed and deployed in a way that is fair, equitable, safe, and secure within the chosen ethical framework. By considering the ethical implications of technology adoption, engineering managers can help to ensure that technology is used responsibly.
If you’re interested in learning more about the ethical considerations of technology adoption, you might want to check out the book “Ethics, Law and Technology Adoption: Navigating Technology Adoption Challenges” by Dr. Steven A. Wright. The book provides insights into the main ethical frameworks and principles that can inform decision-making and accountability in technology development and deployment, as well as the key legal issues and challenges that emerge from the interaction of new technologies and old laws. You can purchase the book on Amazon.