We propose a program for developing
ethically sustainable cultures in client–vendor relations in information
systems development (ISD). The program is based on the participatory design
approach and is motivated by the findings of our survey (n=20) that explored
ethical challenges and good ethical practices in the IT field. The data showed
that client–vendor relations are ethically conflicting as profitability
pressures, for example, induce IS managers to undertake unethical practices.
Based on the results of our survey, we identified a dialectical process in
client–vendor relations in the form of thesis, antithesis, and synthesis. In
the process, impulses inducing questionable or unethical practices (thesis)
confront the guidelines for good ethical practices (antithesis). This
confrontation between a thesis and an antithesis is implemented through the program
we propose, and as a result, morally better practices are expected to emerge
(synthesis).