A values-driven management model that implements an ETHOS framework helps to align ethical standards and practices. The “ETHOS Framework: Values-Driven Management Pyramid” Outlines 3 phases that organizations can use to achieve values actualization.

Phase 1: Engage and Assess

The first step is to employ equitable and inclusive practices to engage staff in the assessment and identification of core values. Both internal and relevant external stakeholders should be engaged to jointly identify the values that board members, constituents, and staff want to be reflected in organizational program implementation, administration, and oversight. 

Typical values that are identified include honesty, integrity, inclusivity, transparency, equitable practices, excellence, courage, humility, trust, care for people, and environmental responsibility. However, there are many more values that people employ. 

Once the core values are identified there is a process for assessing and identifying how to align practices and values. This means looking at policies and procedures, program implementation, impact on staff and beneficiaries of services, and creating ethical guidelines for implementing fundraising.

Phase 2: Building Capacity

Once the engagement and assessment phase is completed, it’s time to build the organizational capacity. All staff should be trained on the core values of the organization and the metrics for monitoring and evaluating whether they are being implemented. This is also the time in which managers model the behavior they want to see employees and volunteers practice. 

It is also important to use neutral and objective metrics for measuring whether the work of the organization is being done in accordance with the core values. It is essential to make sure that you are clear about the metrics for evaluation and that employees understand that this information will not be used against them. These building blocks lead organizations to align values and practices through value actualization. 

Phase 3: Values Actualization

Values actualization impacts how organizations are managed, the work of the board, how the staff is treated, the type of funding that is accepted, and how programs are delivered. It also influences whether the organization makes fair decisions that support the people the organization serves, employees, and the mission. Maintaining a state of alignment between values and practices, though, does require continuous monitoring, practice, and communication.

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