The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the professional organization to which architects and architecture students belong. There are several areas in which architects and aspiring architects are expected to demonstrate professionalism and commitment to the field. The AIA code of conduct, officially referred to as the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, is comprised of three distinct levels. The three levels within the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct are canons, ethical standards and rules of conduct.
Canons
The AIA 2007 Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct describes canons as "broad principles of conduct." Canons are, therefore, much like the business philosophy for an organization. They are philosophical statements that support the foundation and purpose of an organization. In the AIA, there are six canons that represent an architect's obligations. These are obligations that apply to all architects, namely the first canon which contains the architect's general obligations. The remaining five are obligations to the public, clients, the profession, an architect's peers and colleagues and the environment in which the architect performs her duties.
Ethical Standards
Ethical standards for the AIA are specific actions that further the goal of the canons. For example, in the third canon that addresses the architect's obligation to his client, matters such as integrity, confidentiality, disclosure and open, honest communication are the standards by which an architect upholds his commitment to Canon III. The ethical standards for the fifth canon stress the importance of building a professional reputation and recognizing the accomplishments of colleagues as well. In addition, architects who adhere to the code of conduct agree to support the endeavors of students and interns. This ethical standard is a forward-thinking one because it advances the reputation of the profession by recognizing talent and instilling the values and ethics of the profession in new and aspiring architects.
Rules of Conduct
AIA rules of conduct are much like workplace policies. They are more specific guidelines that direct the actions of architects in furtherance of their profession. Rules of conduct include information on how the AIA handles disciplinary review and reprimand and specific actions that are prohibited, such as accepting money in exchange for influencing the viability of an architectural project. Another example of the AIA rules of conduct is one that prohibits disparate treatment of clients, colleagues and the public based on any kind of discriminatory practice or personal bias.
Architectural Professionalism
State licensing boards have separate codes of conduct and ethical standards to which architects must adhere. In Missouri, for instance, there are additional legislative rules that govern architects' professionalism. The state includes rules that address fiduciary duties, work activities that preserve the integrity and history of the environment in which the architect works, and ethics concerning the commission of duties and payment.
Tags: Code Ethics, Code Ethics Professional, ethical standards, Ethics Professional, Ethics Professional Conduct, Professional Conduct
