Module 3

Module Introduction

  • Module Focus: Reaching conclusions during the conclude the investigation component.

  • Topics: Preparation of reports and application of findings to the Morgan case study described by Professor Brecker.

Morgan Case Study

  • Objective: Complete an activity related to reaching conclusions based on video content.

  • Videos to Review: "Conclude the Investigation, Reaching Conclusions" and "Morgan Case Study, Related Policy Language".

  • Task: Apply findings for each issue to relevant policies to reach conclusions.

Key Points from the Morgan Case Study Spreadsheet

  • The spreadsheet contains findings (Row 2) and has conclusions (Row 4) that need to be filled out.

  • Purpose: Demonstrate how to apply findings for each issue to related policies to derive conclusions.

Reaching Conclusions

  • Methodology by Professor Brecker:
      - Factual findings must be applied to policies related to the investigation issue.
      - Determine if an expert or legal adviser will assist in applying findings to policies.
      - Identify related language in each policy for the issue in question.
      - Assess whether the findings indicate a policy violation.

  • Serious Policy Violations:
      - Investigators must determine if violations are severe and potentially legal in nature.
      - Collaborate with experts when necessary to ascertain the level of the violation.
      - Describe findings in relation to each policy, clearly stating if a violation exists without providing reasoning in the conclusion.

Cautions in Reporting Conclusions

  • Avoid discussing how issues will be addressed when developing conclusions; this occurs later when determining outcomes.

  • Finalizing report components should include a summary or a formal report on findings and conclusions.

Language from Policies in the Morgan Case Study

  • Policies Overview:
      - Policies are interrelated: mission and value statement, code of conduct, anti-bullying, EEO, and anti-harassment policies.

  • General Language:
      - Mission Statement & Code of Conduct: "All employees are expected to treat each other professionally and respectfully."
      - Anti-Bullying Policy Language: "Repeated attacking and abusive conduct."
      - EEO and Anti-Harassment Policies Focus: "Behaviors that are severe and pervasive."

  • Legal Standards:
      - Policies may include legal standards based on the geographical location of the organization.

  • Higher Standards for Supervisors:
      - Supervisors are held to higher standards due to their role as role models.

Key Language Examples from Policies

  • Mission Statement: "Useless, you're acting like my 12-year old, grow up."

  • Code of Conduct: "All employees are expected to treat each other professionally and respectfully."

  • Anti-Bullying Policy: “Repeated attacking and abusive conduct.”

  • EEO Policy: “Behaviors that are severe and pervasive.”

Findings in the Morgan Case Study

  • Finding One:
      - Jesse's email included the word "useless".
      - Context: Jesse's comment upon feedback about Morgan's work.
      - Conclusion: Jesse's remark was not indicative of Morgan's abilities.

  • Finding Two:
      - Jesse also commented "you're acting like my 12 year old".
      - Context: Comment regarding Morgan’s maturity for a new position.
      - Conclusion: Not indicative of Morgan being too young.

  • Finding Three:
      - Credibility assessment showed Jesse did mention "grow up".
      - Context: No evidence Jesse meant Morgan was the youngest.
      - Conclusion: Not based on age.

Conclusions for Each Issue

  • Conclusions: All comments are inappropriate per the policies regarding respect and dignity, even if they do not rise to the levels of serious violations.

  • Comparison of Findings: Different organizations may interpret policy violations variably, requiring consistent application and professional judgment.

Report Writing Approaches

  • Overview of Reports:
      - Goal: To be clear, concise, and organized, ensuring documentation of investigations is thorough.
      - Report Types: Formal and summary reports depending on complaint nature.

  • Key Report Topics:
      - Overview of complaint, background information, discussion of each issue, overall summary, appendix documentation.
      - Consideration: Document needs vary across organizations.

Serious Policy Investigations

  • Case Example by Gail Wasserman:
      - Context: Investigated inflammatory statements made by an employee on social media.
      - Finding: Posts violated social media policy and contributed to a hostile work environment.
      - Conclusion: Determined these posts were a workplace issue due to their impact on colleagues.

Module Wrap Up

  • Summary: Explored methods of reaching conclusions and factors influencing report development in workplace investigations.