Perspectives on business ethics in South African small and medium enterprises

  • Ireze van Wyk University of South Africa
  • Peet Venter University of South Africa

Abstract

SMEs are the driving force of economies. However, they face challenges that affect their long-term survival, such as developing ethical business environments. Business ethicsrelated research is underdeveloped in SMEs, thus limiting our understanding of business ethics in SMEs. The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate how business ethics is conceptualised in SMEs, using the Delphi Technique.  In SMEs, business ethics is viewed as doing the right thing, having integrity, being transparent, trustworthy, and behaving responsibly towards internal and external parties. The contribution of this article is that business ethics is perceived as upholding quality, being transparent and trustworthy.

Author Biographies

Ireze van Wyk, University of South Africa
Lecturer Department of Business Management
Peet Venter , University of South Africa
Graduate School of Business Leadership
Published
2022-04-20