Impartiality analysis.

 

by IAS Principal Staff Prasanth S. Ramakrishnan

 
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Possible matrix that can be used for impartiality.
 
Per Merriam-Webster, it is defined as not partial or biased.

Per ISO/IEC Standard 17020 and 17065, it is defined as presence of objectivity meaning the conflicts of interest do not exist or are resolved, so that it does not adversely influence subsequent activities of the organization. It implies independence, freedom from conflict of interests. Freedom from bias, lack of prejudice, neutrality, fairness, open-mindedness, even-handedness, detachment and balance.

How to perform an impartiality analysis?

To perform an impartiality analysis/study, following factors can be considered, as applicable:

  • Risks that arise from activities
    Activities can be from organizational history and activities, employee work history, inadequate review of a contract/tender and basis of approval of vendors.

  • Relationships that have impact on integrity (inter or intra)
    Relationships can be within the departments or companies within the same parent umbrella. It can be relationships between personnel working in the organization like an wife-husband, parent-children etc. It can be relationships with the external vendors if there is vested interest. For instance, in an organization, if there is a designer, implementer, manufacturer, installer, distributer and maintainer, there should be firewalls between these layers to avoid potential risks and ensure impartiality.
This impartiality analysis is important to ensure the integrity of the work being performed and avoid bias and prejudice in the project. This exercise needs to be transparent and outspoken with staff understanding the importance of this factor that reflects the ethical standards of the organization.