Here’s yet another application of the ETHICAL model. As you may recall, I dropped the ETHICAL Model into Perplexity Spaces. Now, I just need to drop in the scenario to get an analysis. Having relied on Claude Projects, I am quite pleased with Perplexity’s Spaces. It’s handling the same tasks quite well.

Auto-generated description: A seven-step ethical decision-making model is illustrated with colorful, labeled sections forming a circle.

So far, I like how it’s handling these situations:

Scenario

Chisum hired a couple of consultants to come out to do work on-site. A few weeks short of the event, he backed out, claiming the business had to organize different events on the scheduled date. Then, rescheduled for half the number of consultants a few months in advance. Two weeks out from the date of the event, Chisum still hadn’t responded to questions about presenting. What should the consultants do?

Response

Let’s analyze this situation using the ETHICAL decision-making model:

Engage stakeholders

The key parties involved in this decision are:

  • The consultants who were hired and are now facing uncertainty
  • Chisum, the client who hired and then rescheduled the consultants
  • The business that Chisum represents
  • Potential attendees or participants of the scheduled event

Think emotionally and logically

Emotional considerations:

  • The consultants may feel frustrated, disrespected, and anxious about the lack of communication and changes to the agreement.
  • Chisum might be overwhelmed or stressed about organizing different events.

Logical considerations:

  • There’s a breach of professional etiquette and potentially contractual obligations on Chisum’s part.
  • The consultants' time and potential income are at risk.
  • The credibility and success of the event may be compromised by poor planning and communication.

Harmonize perspectives

To integrate diverse viewpoints:

  • Recognize that Chisum may be facing genuine business challenges that led to the changes.
  • Understand that the consultants have a right to clear communication and respect for their time and expertise.
  • Consider the impact on the event’s attendees and the business’s reputation.

Investigate options

The main alternatives for the consultants include:

  1. Continue attempting to contact Chisum for clarification
  2. Set a firm deadline for response and communication
  3. Withdraw from the engagement entirely
  4. Seek legal advice regarding breach of contract
  5. Propose a revised agreement with clearer terms and expectations

Collaborate on recommendations

Proposed solutions:

  1. The consultants should send a formal communication to Chisum, outlining their concerns and requesting an immediate response.
  2. Propose a revised agreement that includes:
    • Clear cancellation policies and penalties
    • Specific timelines for communication and decision-making
    • A non-refundable deposit to secure the consultants' time
  3. Offer to have a brief call to address any concerns or changes Chisum may be facing, to find a mutually beneficial solution.

Authorize decision

The consultants have the final say in how they proceed, based on their professional judgment and business needs. Their decision should consider:

  • The potential for salvaging the professional relationship
  • The financial impact of withdrawing or continuing
  • Their own availability and willingness to accommodate further changes

Launch implementation

To execute the decision:

  1. Draft and send the formal communication to Chisum immediately.
  2. Set a specific deadline for response (e.g., 48 hours).
  3. Prepare alternative plans for both continuing with or withdrawing from the engagement.
  4. Document all communications and decisions for potential legal or professional reference.
  5. If proceeding, create a detailed project plan with clear milestones and communication checkpoints.

In conclusion, the recommended course of action is to give Chisum one last opportunity to respond and clarify the situation through formal communication with a strict deadline. The consultants should be prepared to withdraw from the engagement if satisfactory responses and assurances are not received. Potential obstacles include continued non-responsiveness from Chisum and the challenge of balancing professionalism with protecting one’s business interests.