Both IEEE and ACM have approved this software engineering code of ethics. It is version 5.2, updated from the reasonably well-known version 3.0. The new version stresses the public good, whereas version 3.0 stressed software products. The code is divided into eight sections: “Public,” “Client and Employer,” “Product,” “Judgment,” “Management,” “Profession,” “Colleagues,” and “Self.” Each section is subdivided into between four and 15 specific ethical behaviors. A condensed “Code of Ethics at a Glance” is included as an inset. The article is well written and well presented, though references to past codes of ethics in the computing profession could have been included.

Anyone in the information technology profession who is not aware of this code should read this article. Software engineers might wish to post a copy of the article, or at least the short form, in a prominent place. I intend to make those clients of mine who have an innate fear of computers and software (yes, they still do exist) aware of this code of ethics.