FanPost

Transparency and the Lockout

One of the lockout issues that creates the most controversy is the idea that the owners should open the books to the players if they want to lower the players' pay. Just the mention of this can spark heated comments, so I ask that all comments here are thoughtful and relevant. Please refrain from personal insults. It's apparent that both sides of the argument have validity.

An organization in the USA can choose to disclose it's books or operate finances behind closed doors. It's much more common to keep this information confidential, but times are changing. Businesses are realizing how much more attractive they are to investors with transparent books and methods. Non-governmental organizations can raise funds more easily when donors feel like nothing is being hidden from them. Even the government tries to appear transparent to the public, when possible, to maintain peace and reduce allegations of corruption.

The two companies I worked for more recently both told me in the job interview that they were trying to move to transparency in their books. They saw it as an advantage in the industry. I am now starting a business and will face the decision to conceal the books or not. With so many factors, it's not an easy concept to consider.

Privacy in accounting and financial reporting is a clear necessity in certain organizations. But beyond national security, the reasons to withhold monetary information dwindle fast. This is the main point of contention on this matter, and can be addressed more specifically when you seperate the accounting practices from every other aspect of private business, which is entirely possible in most situations.

Jut to be clear, I am not advocating that any organization be transparent in all matters. This is only about how much a business brings in and where it comes from. Making that information available prevents much internal corruption.

A few Rumblers feel strongly about the owners keeping their books private from the players. This is the place to make a case for that stance. Can you make a convincing argument that the owners need to keep the books closed?

Just another great fan opinion shared on the pages of BuffaloRumblings.com.