Introduction to Potential Conflicts of Interest and Conflicts of Commitment

What is a potential conflict of interest (COI)?

Broadly defined, a potential conflict of interest includes external ties that may bias, or may appear to bias, your judgment in performing your job. 

An example of a potential conflict of interest is…

The contract for the delivery of bottled water to your office by an external supplier is about to expire.  The company representative who oversees service to your office, and who hopes to renew the contract, sends a gift of substantial value to you.