Organizations that fail to implement ethical tech standards are at risk of a variety of negative effects, according to recent survey results released by Deloitte, the global consulting and financial company. Of particular concern to executives are the impacts on their people, especially in the form of employee distress or turnover.
The survey, Ethics & Trust in Technology, was conducted online in March 2021 by an independent research firm and was answered by 200 enterprise executives. It inquired into the importance of ethics in technology today and the organizational challenges faced in developing ethical standards. According to results, 75% of C-Level executives consider tech ethics extremely important.
When asked who should be responsible for ethical technology considerations, the survey suggested that the executive leadership team is the most responsible group (79%), followed closely by IT teams (78%). Furthermore, respondents believe that the federal government should join forces with businesses to define ethical standards for technology (69%).
The survey also revealed clarity of priorities when it comes to ethical technology. In his order of importance, 71% of respondents cited AI/ML, 66% cited 5G, 62% AR/VR, and 61% quantum technology for developing and maintaining ethical standards.
Deloitte, a global consulting and financial services organization, is committed to ethically sound and reliable practices in business. The company works with organizations to help them understand, assess, and manage risk and opportunity through the development and use of digital technologies. They also provide innovative solutions and perspectives to excel in the ever-changing corporate world. Deloitte’s insights on ethical technology can potentially assist enterprises in being better informed and prepared for potential risks and challenges of operating without ethical standards.
