Understanding Conflicts of Interest

Course details

A conflict of interest (COI) is a situation in which a person or organization is involved in multiple interests, one of which could possibly corrupt the motivation or decision-making of that individual or organization. The concept of having personnel sign a conflict of interest statement has become one of the tools used to manage an organization's control environment and ethics process.

A conflict of interest exists if the circumstances are reasonably believed to create a risk that a decision may be unduly influenced. The belief can be based on experience or objective evidence. There are critical concepts related to the conflict of interest process that organizations must understand.

This course is designed to provide the learner with the opportunity to re-examine the concept as it is applied in their organization. We also discuss potential COI scenarios and elements that should be included in a COI policy.