A company purchased an expensive computer program for your summer job with them. The license agreement states that you can make a backup copy, but you can use the program on only one computer at a time. Your senior design course professor would like you to use the program for your senior design project. What should you do?

a. Give the program to your professor and let him or her worry about the consequences.

b. Copy the program and use it because no one will know.

c. Ask your supervisor at the company that purchased the program if you can use it at school on your senior project.

d. Ask your professor to contact the company and ask for permission to use the program at school.

Use the Ethical Decision Matrix Table 1.1, which contains the six Fundamental Canons to respond to these ethical situations.

Table 1.1

Go Along with the Call a Appeal to Higher Management Quit Write Your Options NSPE Canons Newspaper Reporter Your State Decision Job Representative Hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public. Perform services only in the area of your competence. Issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner. Act for each employer or client as faithful agents or trustees. Avoid deceptive acts. Conduct yourself honorably.