Questions or concerns about violations?
If you have any questions, would like to raise an ethical concern, report a potential violation, or just provide your feedback, please talk to your manager and/or Human Resources. They will know how to proceed or they will redirect you if necessary.
OpenMethods has a non-retaliation policy, and you are encouraged to report any misconduct as soon as possible. While open conversation is encouraged and preferable, it is also understood that some people may feel more comfortable reporting issues anonymously. An online reporting form is available for such reports.
Who must follow the Code of Conduct?
Employees, contractors, consultants, and other business partners acting on behalf of OpenMethods should be familiar with and follow this Code of Conduct while conducting work for OpenMethods. OpenMethods’ suppliers are also expected to familiarize themselves with the Code of Conduct.
Integrity
The trust of our colleagues, customers, users, and sales and business partners is one of our most valuable assets. Our business practices and company culture should reflect the need to continually earn and maintain that trust.
Freedom of association & expression
OpenMethods supports a culture that fosters freedom of association and expression, as long as these forms of expression and association are not illegal and do not cause unjust harm in any way.
Equal opportunity employment and non-discrimination
OpenMethods does not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, pregnancy status, sex, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, mental or physical disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, or any other characteristics protected by law. Employees are treated solely on the basis of their aptitude, individual merit, experience, and qualifications.
Conflicts of interest
OpenMethods condemns improper conflicts of interest: situations when the personal interests of an employee interfere or may appear to interfere with their job.
- remain mindful of standard business practices when acting on behalf of OpenMethods where you, a member of your family, or a close associate may benefit from your decision;
- comply with applicable laws.
Guidance concerning these matters should be sought from your manager, Compliance Officer, or Human Resources.
Communications & public events
OpenMethods encourages freedom of expression, and this includes, but is not limited to, expressing yourself in public forums. However, it is important to understand that your opinion does not constitute that of the company.
When taking part in a public event on behalf of OpenMethods, it is expected that you will act in compliance not only with this Code of Conduct but also with that of the event itself.
Privacy
OpenMethods has thorough policies and procedures in place to ensure the privacy of its employees and customers. It is the responsibility of everyone in OpenMethods to know these policies and to be aware of the practices that they should follow.
Our Privacy Policy, and applicable data protection laws are therefore imperative. You can always clarify how we protect privacy by contacting us at privacy@OpenMethods.com
Confidentiality
In many instances, OpenMethods has direct contractual confidentiality obligations to protect the information that our customers and sales or business partners entrust us with. Such information must be treated as confidential. In cases where disclosing confidential information to an outside party is required, the disclosure should be on a “need-to-know” basis and only under a non-disclosure agreement approved by the Legal department.
Intellectual property
OpenMethods respects the work and intellectual property of others. This means making sure that the required licenses (OSS and commercial), consents, and credits are appropriately handled. Inappropriate use of others’ intellectual property may expose OpenMethods, as well as the initiator of such actions, to criminal or civil enforcement consequences, and we strive to prevent any such situation from arising.
Financial integrity & OpenMethods’ property
It is important that everyone plays a role in ensuring OpenMethods’ financial integrity and fiscal stability. This means respecting payment approval processes, using company funds reasonably, and ensuring that financial records are kept accurately.
OpenMethods strives to equip its employees with state-of-the-art equipment and ample benefits, and expects that OpenMethods’ property and the resources provided for the enjoyment of all OpenMethods staff will be treated with respect.
Legal and contractual risks
OpenMethods does not expect its employees, contractors, or partners to sign contracts on behalf of the company. It is solely the responsibility of the Legal department to review, and of authorized signatories to conclude, contracts on behalf of the company.
However, OpenMethods does rely on its employees, contractors, and partners to be alert to legal risks when agreeing with third parties via license agreements, terms of service, and verbal or written agreements. In the event of any uncertainty, you should consult the Legal department prior to taking any action.
International trade controls
U.S., EU, national, and international trade laws might determine to whom OpenMethods can and cannot offer its products and services. Compliance with all international trade control laws and regulations is imperative. In the event of any doubt as to whether a product or service can be supplied to a specific country/entity/person, the matter should be raised with the Legal and Compliance departments.
Gifts, entertainment, and other business courtesies
Accepting or providing gifts, entertainment and other business courtesies from or to OpenMethods’ competitors or business partners can easily create the appearance of an improper conflict of interests or even a violation of local anti-bribery laws.
If possible, obtain your manager’s consent before accepting any such offers. Notify your manager or HR about any business courtesies that you have accepted and are concerned about.
The use of OpenMethods’ approved promotional or branded merchandise when promoting the OpenMethods brand is not a cause for concern in this respect. If you aim to provide other business courtesies, follow the rules defined in internal guidelines while taking into consideration local customs but never offer, promise or authorize anything, regardless of its value, with the intention to influence anyone’s decisions.
Anti-bribery, anti-corruption, and governmental officials
Bribery and corruption are prohibited by applicable law and are inconsistent with OpenMethods’ values.
A seemingly innocent or well-meaning gift, entertainment invitation, or business courtesy can be interpreted as bribery. Laws relating to government officials are often stricter than those relating to business partners or competitors.
OpenMethods does not tolerate any behavior that breaches international money laundering, finance of terrorism, or crime prevention laws and regulations.