Code of Conduct for ISMS Meetings

ISMS has adopted the following Code of Conduct for its meetings, to accord with that of INFORMS.

It is the policy of The Institute for Operations Research and Management Sciences (INFORMS) that all participants will conduct themselves at INFORMS functions in a professional manner that is welcoming to all participants and free from any form of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or retaliation. Participants agree to treat each other with respect and consideration to create and ensure a collegial, inclusive, and professional environment at INFORMS.

All participants of INFORMS activities agree to comply with this policy. “All participants” includes, but is not limited to, attendees, guests, staff, contractors, and exhibitors. This Code of Conduct applies to all INFORMS activities, including committee and subdivisions meetings and calls, sessions, tours, receptions, and any other events. Creating a supportive environment to enable scientific exchange and professional development within INFORMS is of utmost importance and the responsibility of all.

Participants are expected to avoid any inappropriate actions or statements based on individual characteristics such as age, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, physical appearance, body size, marital status, nationality, political affiliation, ability status, educational background, or any other characteristic protected by law. Harassing, sexual harassment, or disruptive behavior of any kind will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, suggestive, inappropriate, or intimidating behavior and language; unwelcome jokes or comments; unwanted touching or attention; stalking; harassing photography or recording; offensive or sexually oriented images; and aggressive physical behavior. Promoting or encouraging any of the above behavior is likewise prohibited.

If a participant experiences or observes inappropriate comments or actions in violation of this Code of Conduct policy, it should be reported to the INFORMS Hotline — by phone: 855-650-0005; online: https://www.lighthouse-services.com/informs; by e-mail: reports@lighthouse-services.com; or by fax: 215-689-3885 (must include “INFORMS” with the report). Reporting may be made anonymously. When necessary, INFORMS will engage a third-party company to investigate the facts and circumstances reported. INFORMS will take every effort to keep concerns confidential. If the investigation concludes that the Code of Conduct was violated, sanctions may range from verbal warning, ejection from a meeting without refund, notifying appropriate authorities, up to and including revoking membership. Retaliation for complaints of inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated and are subject to the same sanctions.