Our work is based on the doctrine of professionalism. By being professional, we strive to exhibit, “the conduct, aims, or qualities” that characterize development management consulting. We thus ensure that we have specialised knowledge in our core and thematic areas of focus; demonstrate honesty, integrity, and accountability. We also self-regulate our actions and strive to maintain a good public image.
In order to ensure professionalism, we have developed the following professional codes:
1. Child Protection Policy
We recognise that our work at times brings us into contact with children. In a bid to ensure the safety of wellbeing of children that our consultants and researchers get into contact with, a set of principles and procedures are adhered to. We do not engage in any assignment that entails a breach of these standards.
2. Ethical Research Guide
Research is value-laden and has to be conducted within the precincts of what are generally referred to as ‘research ethics’. Research ethics are guidelines or sets of principles for good professional practice, which serve to advise and steer researchers as they conduct their work (Bloor and Wood, 2006).
In keeping with our belief in ethical research practice, DLC has adopted key principles that are applied throughout the research process. These include informed consent, voluntary participation, anonymity of respondents, confidentially of information, and ensuring no harm to the respondents.
For all research that may expose human subjects to some form of harm, the firm obtains clearance from Independent Review Boards such as the AIDS Support Organisation (TASO) in Uganda. To obtain ethical clearance, the firm always presents a research proposal (including documentation on our ethical guidelines) to a review board.
3. Standard Operating Procedures
We are committed to delivering timely services of high quality. We have thus developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) covering the key aspects of our work such as recruitment of associate consultants and researchers, and managing running projects.
