Business Ethics and Stakeholder-Management: Developing a Structured Approach for Small Business' Owner-Managers

The results of the research suggested the framework for an Ethics Integration Guideline', developing the instrument in two parts and four components, with various sub-components. Part one of the Guideline consists of diagnostic questions, while part two contains behavioural instructions. The components in both parts are (1) an ethical guidance instrument for the firm, (2) an ethics enforcement system, (3) a stakeholder management system, and (4) an ethical dilemma management system. These component headings were devised to organize the results of the interview data into a useful instrument. The questions and imperatives are derived from the interview statements gained in the research for this thesis. It turns out that the approach differs considerably from approaches applied in large firms. The Ethics Integration Guideline developed in this research provides a unique tool which connects research results with user's individual perspectives and experiences in his firm. The guideline is flexible, applicable and adaptable to the needs of the firm in question. It bridges the gap between ethics theory and business conduct. Thus, it contributes to professional practice in small firms “ a sector which is commonly underestimated in its crucial importance to the welfare of a society.