One very important ethical consideration involves nepotism. Nepotism is the practice of showing favoritism toward one's family members or friends in economic or employment terms.
For example, selection of a vendor because they are a family member or close friend. Or, choosing a supply company/firm/reference laboratory because your family member owns it.
Nepotism is a form of conflict of interest. It may also be illegal, depending on the situation. Federal law, as well as many state laws, prohibit this kind of vendor relationship in public agencies or departments. Outside of public agencies, nepotism is not necessarily illegal. However, the relationship could be determined to be discriminatory, which is in itself, illegal.
