Doug Smith argues that individuals must marry economic value and moral values through organizations, markets, and networks. Don't know where to start? Here are some of his 27 "illustrative suggestions."
Annual report to the people of the enterprise Public companies issue reports to shareholders -- but rarely do these documents address all the concerns that matter to those responsible for corporate performance: employees. A dedicated report, balanced and objective, would provide employees the chance to review direction and performance.
Brand-values committee of the board of directors This group would monitor promises made and delivered by an organization's brand. The focus would be on all values: economic as well as social, political, and environmental. The committee would set policies to ensure the company delivers the values it promises.
Customer and employee participation on the board Boards that invite participation of customers and employees are more likely to blend value and values for the common good of all stakeholders. Participation could range from formal membership to committee posts to information and review functions.
Minimum values standards in qualifying vendors Big companies have seized on purchasing power to improve quality, speed, and cost. They can also use purchasing to ensure minimum standards on family, environmental, and other values. The more companies that do, the more likely that networks across industries will share values.
Keith H. Hammonds is Fast Company's deputy editor.
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