A conflict of interest (COI) is a situation in which a person or organization is involved in multiple interests, one of which could possibly corrupt the motivation or decision-making of that individual or organization. The concept of having personnel sign a conflict of interest statement has become one of the tools used to manage an organization’s control environment and ethics process.
A conflict of interest exists if the circumstances are reasonably believed to create a risk that a decision may be unduly influenced. The belief can be based on experience or objective evidence. There are critical concepts related to the conflict of interest process that organizations must understand.
This course is designed to provide the learner with the opportunity to re-examine the concept as it is applied in their organization. We also discuss potential COI scenarios and elements that should be included in a COI policy.
Prerequisites
No Advanced Preparation or Prerequisites are needed for this course, but completion of the instructor's other courses on ethics may be helpful.
Learning Objective
- Explore the definition of conflict of interest (COI).
- Explore key principles of a conflict of interest.
- Discover how the concept of conflict of interest applies to business.
- Discover examples of conflict of interest.
- Identify components to include in your conflict of interest policy.
- Explore how to properly manage and avoid conflict of interest.
Last updated/reviewed: July 4, 2025
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INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW
UNDERSTANDING CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
- Conflict of Interest Definition 8:38
- Key Principles of Conflict of Interest 7:25
- COI In Business 13:44
- COI for Boards and Senior Leaders 7:37
- Examples 5:29
- COI Scenarios 11:24
- COI Policy 15:12
- Avoiding COI 11:52
- Actions 5:32
- Test Your Knowledge 6:43
CONCLUSION
- Summary 3:58
CONTINUOUS PLAY
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
- Slides: Keys to Understanding Conflict of Interests PDF
- Keys to Understanding Conflict of Interests Glossary/Index PDF
REVIEW AND TEST
- REVIEW QUESTIONS quiz
- FINAL EXAM exam
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