Scandal prevention through a moral work environment: Case Study from Thailand

Purpose This case study aims to describe a set of human resources practices that can help prevent major scandals that would ruin the reputation of an organization. Design/methodology/approach The authors performed an in-depth case study of a standardized testing company, which has operated in Thailand for decades without a major cheating scandal. Findings Referrals-only recruitment, salient moral and religious cues in the workplace, and credible threats of punishments are the key tools the company has used to guard against cheating. Research limitations/implications The company’s practices are only appropriate in the context of a collectivist and culturally-homogeneous environment. Originality/value This case study represents an original and practical contribution to scandal-prevention strategies.