Most effective codes build on a public administration foundation. Laws and rules on
human capital management, procurement, contracts, administrative procedures and their
implementation add to the likelihood of a codes success. These are most often associated with a
culture of integrity in the government and organization, creating incentives for doing the right
thing, and clear and timely penalties for doing the wrong thing. This does not mean that the
government has integrity, but that the conditions in the country are such the public servants and
the public want integrity.
This culture of integrity is usually associated with a professionalized public service.
Merit is an important element but strong integrity systems can offset the lack of merit based
appointments in a fairly large number of positions.113 This culture is supplemented by a strong
sense of personal integrity. Organizational integrity and personal integrity are symbiotic, that is
they reinforce each other. Many studies in public administration have shown increased
performance and effectiveness when personal values and organizational values are aligned.