Case: Summary of case

The initial estimate, in late 1999, for the re-vamp of the web site of the Dept. of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts (DCITA), was $600,000. The final price was over $4 million.

The department provided a number of excuses/reasons for the excessive costs, including "over-ambitious expectations"; "a relatively immature understanding of the new content management technologies'; changes in the scope of the project; no allowance made for support of existing web site during the project; and no allowance for the tendering process. A spokesman stated that the department did not have "adequate development skills at the outset of the process..."

1.2.1 Public Interest

e) endeavour to preserve the integrity, security, continuity and utility of ICT;

1.2.3 Honesty

b) not knowingly mislead a client or potential client as to the suitability of a product or service;

c) distinguish between your professional and personal opinions and advice;

d) give realistic estimates for projects under your control;

e) qualify professional opinions which you know are based on limited knowledge or experience;

1.2.4 Competence

a) endeavour to provide products and services which match the operational and financial needs of your stakeholders;

b) not misrepresent your skills or knowledge;

f) accept responsibility for your work;

g) respect, and seek when necessary, the professional expertise of colleagues in their areas of competence.

1.2.5 Professional Development

a) continue to upgrade your knowledge and skills;

b) increase your awareness of issues affecting the profession and its relationship with the public;

c) encourage your colleagues, staff and students to continue their own professional development;

d) support education, training and professional development in ICT that reflects the diverse needs of individual professionals and their various career paths.

1.2.6 Professionalism

f) refrain from any conduct or action in your professional role which may tarnish the image of the profession or detract from the good name of the ACS;

i) have pride in your profession, and protect and promote professionalism and trustworthiness in ICT.