The first step in developing a strong control
environment is for the owners to discern
and operationalize the organization’s
values, such as exceptional client service,
commitment to excellence, integrity in
dealing with stakeholders (including
employees, customers, and suppliers), commitment
to diversity, and accountability
and responsibility. Senior management and
owners need to exhibit and practice the
organization’s values because they are the
role models for employees. For example,
the owner/senior management of an organization
might value accountability but fail
to complete time reports or expense
records; exhibiting this behavior might
cause it to spread throughout the organization.