A strong desire to achieve something high or great. An aspirational code would be intended to reach a higher standard of "doing what is right," superseding mere compliance with what the law mandates.

Belief that one has the power to enact change. Agency is a critical component in reporting decisions because most people will only report if they believe their action has the potential to make a difference.

The process of comparing to established "best practices," peer organizations or even past results in order to better understand strengths, challenges and progress made.

The development of an organization's core skills and capabilities, such as leadership, management, finance and fundraising, programs and evaluation, in order to build the organization's effectiveness and sustainability. It is the process of assisting an individual or group to identify and address issues and gain the insights, knowledge an [..]

Can refer to a listing of required behaviors, the violation of which would result in disciplinary action. In practice, used interchangeably with Code of Ethics.

Often conveys organizational values, a commitment to standards and communicates a set of ideals. In practice, used interchangeably with Code of Conduct. In Section 406(c), the Sarbanes-Oxley Act defines "code of ethics" as such standards as are reasonably necessary to promote-- (1) honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handlin [..]

Conforming or adapting one's actions to another's wishes, to a rule or to necessity. A compliance code would be intended to meet all legal requirements.

A person has a conflict of interest when the person is in a position of trust which requires her to exercise judgment on behalf of others (people, institutions, etc.) and also has interests or obligations of the sort that might interfere with the exercise of her judgment, and which the person is required to either avoid or openly acknowledge.

The abuse of public power for private benefit. Perversion or destruction of integrity in the discharge of public duties by bribery or favor or the use or existence of corrupt practices, especially in a state or public corporation.

Choosing to do what one believes is right even if the result will not be to everyone's liking or may lead to personal loss.