Worlds of Two Giants

The importance of ethics reaches beyond engineering design into construction of the designed product. An ethical approach to construction and public relations on a job is a minimum requirement of a contracting firm in order to maintain working harmony with owner and inspector, and to achieve the desired end product. It is performance rather than size which determines the stature of a contractor. Size may help or hinder the organization, depending on the pride which the firm displays in performing its work. At times when rigorous schedules and deadlines demand the utmost of a company and its principles, the temptation arises to shortcut on procedure and ethics. Observations indicate that careful planning and close study of the specifications help to avoid major problems and allow time for minor ones. The principle of ethics, in embracing the contractor as well as the engineer, demands of the contracting firm careful consideration in the performance of its work. Good planning, working harmony, and an ethical approach to construction are the footprints of a true giant.