What is the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ ?
The AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ is a simple, easy to use and confidential reporting tool. It was created to assist management and employees of small to mid-size companies in working together to address concerns related to ethics( fraud, internal controls, accounting or auditing matters and other workplace misconduct). Doing this often cultivates a positive work environment.
Why do we need a system like AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ ?
Publicly traded companies are required by law to have an anonymous reporting vehicle to address concerns related to accounting, internal controls and auditing matters directly to management. Privately owned companies, while not required by law, need such oversights as well.
AIM believes the employees of a company are the most important assets. Creating open channels of communication allows companies to promote a positive work environment and maximize productivity.
An effective reporting system like the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ will augment a company’s other efforts to foster a culture of integrity and ethical decision-making.
May reports use either the Internet or the telephone?
Depending on the platform you selected, the answer is Yes. However, more and more people like the anonymity of the Internet. AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ offers the ability to file a confidential, anonymous report via either the Internet. An 800-phone number is an option.
What type of situations should are reported?
The AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ system is designed for employees, shareholders, but can also include customers, service providers or others to report any violation of a Code of Ethics, or other concerns they may have.
If you are an employee of the Company running the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ and become aware of a violation, you simply go to the reporting website and document the incident. Most companies who utilize platforms like the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ expect employees to report violations. Ideally, you should bring any concerns forward to a direct manager, or other member of the management team. However, companies realize that there may be circumstances when an employee is not comfortable reporting the issue in this manner. It is for such circumstances that they partner with and utilize platforms like the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™. Indeed, failure to report actual or potential violations is in itself a violation of the Code found in many companies.
Why should a person report what he or she may know?
We all have the right to work in a positive environment and with that right comes the responsibility of acting in an ethical manner and letting appropriate people know if someone is not acting appropriately. A company’s Code of Ethics usually describes what is or is not appropriate.
By working together, employees can maintain a healthy and productive environment. The AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ helps enable that type of environment. After all, corporate misconduct can threaten the livelihood of the entire company.
What should a company want employees to report?
Generally, that is spelled out in the company’s Code of Ethics. One of the sayings emerging from 9/11 is if “you see something, say something.” Employees know what is going on in a Company — both good and bad. An individual may have initial knowledge of an activity that may be cause for concern. Regardless if it is, or is not, the behavior that sparked that knowledge has put the employee in a unique position: there is a suspicion that it may not be appropriate.
Having a reporting tool like the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ provides a vehicles for the employee to document that knowledge. Reporting can minimize the potential negative impact on the Company and other employees if indeed the behavior is inappropriate. And if it is appropriate, then the Company is assured that employees are expressing concern for the Company. Offering input through the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ system, the individual may help identify issues that can improve corporate culture and performance.
Where do reports go? Who can access them?
Reports are entered directly on the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ secure server to prevent any possible breach in security. The AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ makes these reports available only to specific individuals within the Company who are charged with evaluating the report, based on the type of violation and location of the incident. These individuals were identified when the platform was installed by the Company’s management.
Isn’t such a system just an example of “someone watching over me?”
The AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ concentrates on being a positive aspect of a company’s overall philosophy, and allows them to assure a safe, secure, and ethical workplace. Employees are encouraged to seek guidance on ethical dilemmas, provide positive suggestions, or communicate concerns. Effective communication is critical in today’s workplace and the AIM ETHICS REPORTING PLATFORM™ is a great tool to enhance that communication. Companies who place utilize the platform have carefully chosen a great reporting tool to meet compliance obligations while maintaining a positive reporting environment.