Erle Smith is the financial controller with Practical Solutions Ltd, an entity that sells software products to accounting firms and small businesses. Mr Smith is analysing a number of software packages that focus on budgeting. He needs to select a package he can recommend to his clients. Each software vendor is keen to have their software selected as it will result in a significant increase in sales for their company. Anitah Loh is a salesperson for software company Dogto Ltd. She has asked Mr Smith to go to Los Angeles to analyse her companys software package properly, and the programming experts there can give him a thorough demonstration. Ms Loh also suggested Mr Smith take his family, so he feels relaxed in a foreign country and can undertake his analysis without worrying about being away from his family. Dogto Ltd would pick up the expenses for the trip.

1. Do you think Mr Smith should take the trip? Outline any ethical concerns involved.

2. What would be the advantages and disadvantages to Practical Solutions Ltd of having an employee code of conduct? What measures might be included in such a code of conduct?