Sample Worksheet - Intellectual Property

Read the Letters to the editor, The Institute, IEEE-USA Publication, Aug. 1998. Based on these opinions, your knowledge about the VMI versus Autodesk case, and your judgment discuss the following.

1. According to you, was Otto Berkes acting unethically?
2. According to the IEEE and ACM code of ethics was Otto Berkes' actions UN-ethical?
3. Did Autodesk act unethically? Give reasons.
4. What alternative action(s) could the (managers at) Autodesk have taken?
5. What do you think was Otto Berkes motivation for acting in the manner that he did?