Grounding for the Metaphysics of Morals - Essay Example

The procedure of the crisis communication process at Northeastern Hi-Speed Railways (NERR) adheres to the goals set by the team key among which is the need to protect the reputation and integrity of the company. Additionally, the company promises not to lie, deny or hide involvement in case of a crisis while the goals of the crisis communication plan are clear on virtues, some members of the team felt the urge to lie a feature that presents a major ethical dilemma to the team.

During a federal investigation on a train accident, the spokesperson, which the crisis communication plan requires to cooperate with the investigators and uphold transparency, must always do so. Failing to explain the details of the project to federal investigators presented a major ethical dilemma since a train engineer over sped thereby causing the accident. The spokesperson, on the other hand, exempted the engineer from blame by ignoring some pertinent questions concerning the conduct of the train engineer. The spokesperson, therefore, took responsibility for contravening an ethical provision in his attempt to save the reputation of the company.

Among the areas that the team needed to reflect included the level of involvement of the company in the accident. Federal investigations into any scandal often seek to save the public from the loss of lives and money. The team needed to reflect the message to convey to the public. As stated in the goals, the company should not deny involvement but should instead present a crisis objectively while attempting to better its services. This would imply that the team accepts fault given the extent of the train engineer’s involvement thereby taking responsibility but promising to change the regulations with the view to enhancing the safety of the services. The challenges associated with the preparation of the crisis response included personal differences among the members of the team, the slow pace of making decisions, and the inclusion of the public among other stakeholders.

In overcoming the challenges, the team assigned every member a responsibility. In completing the tasks, the members had to adhere to the ethical provisions and timelines of the project. The strategy enhanced the speed and commitment of every member of the task force. Furthermore, it made it possible for the team to make conclusive, and ethical decisions thereby safeguarding the interests of the company as stipulated in the goal of the crisis communication plan.

The theory is the most appropriate especially when communicating an accident. During a high-speed train accident, families lose their loved ones. As such, the crisis communication team must admit involvement and apologize in case the accident arose from the actions of the train crew. Among the skills needed to further the theory are:

• Collaborative skills
• Decision-making skills
• Sincerity
• Compassion
• Objectivity
• Courage