Research Ethics

The research is intended to gain knowledge of e-government metrics and processes, along with finding out how different organisations have measured e-government and ultimately communicating this knowledge to a wider audience through publications and presentations

Participation in this study is entirely voluntary and in this instance involves responding to a weblog, although a questionnaire and interview are also planned.

Along with the De Montfort University and Technology department codes of ethics, this research will observe the following: 

BCS Code of Conduct

http://www.bcs.org/server.php?show=conWebDoc.1588

Government Social Research

http://www.gsr.gov.uk/professional_guidance/ethics.asp

I may ask for clarification of points some time after, but you are not obliged in any way to clarify or participate further.  Beyond that, I will not seek any further contact with you about this unless you agree.

If you request, the information you provide can be considered confidential, except that with your permission anonymised quotes may be used.  If you request confidentiality, beyond anonymised quotes, information you provide will be treated only as a source of background research, alongside book and web-based material.

If you request, your name or any other personal identifying information will not appear in the dissertation or any publications resulting from this study; neither will there be anything to identify your place of work or business.

Notes collected during this study will be retained for the duration of the research in a secure location and then destroyed, if requested.  The information gained will only be used for the objectives stated and will not be used for any other purpose nor will be recorded in excess of what is required.

There are no known or anticipated risks to you as a participant in this study (unless you mention issues of illegality), but there is no intention of doing this!

If you have any questions regarding this study or would like additional information please contact me at any time.

I can further assure you that this study has been reviewed and approved by the University ethical research body.

Participation in the weblog confirms acceptance of the study ethics and policy.