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An ethical question: No. 166
NO. 166 IN A SERIES BASED ON THE CODE OF PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOUR

Q - I've just discovered that a client has précised a report that we did for them, put it on their web site and is using the fact that we are members of the Association of Market and Social Research Organisations (AMSRO) to give the findings authority. Unfortunately they have taken some of the findings out of context and they are not correct. What can I do?

A - Rule 28 of the Code says:
Researchers must not allow their names to be used in connection with any research project as an assurance that the latter has been carried out in conformity with this Code unless they are confident that the project has in all respects met the Code's requirements.

This means that you have the right to contact the client and insist they remove the report from their website or allow you to make amendments to your satisfaction. The client should have notified you before publication under Rule 27 of the Code:

Where any of the findings of a research project are published by a client the latter has a responsibility to ensure that these are not misleading. The researcher must be consulted and agree in advance the form and content of publication, and must take action to correct any misleading statements about the research and its findings.

Jayne Van Souwe is the convenor of the National Ethics Committee. To ask an ethical question contact Jayne on 03 9621 1066 or JayneVS@wallisgroup.com.au
Please note: Action should not be taken solely on the information given in this column. Legal or professional advice should be sought to ensure no misinterpretation occurs.

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    Research News   Edition index (December 2008)


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