Cognizant's Core Values and Standards of Business Conduct

C O R E VA L U E S A N D S TA N D A R D SThe Right Way at CognizantIn the competitive service environment in which we operate, we must maintain the highest standards of integrity.Our reputation and our success depend on it. Whether we’re working in a development center, on-site with ourcustomers, in our corporate office or elsewhere, we must be role models of integrity and ensure that we handle ourclients’ systems, confidential information or sensitive intellectual property, as well as our own, with the utmost ofcare. Associates assigned to client engagements are expected to follow both Cognizant and client policies, as wellas standards of conduct. In cases where standards differ, the more stringent standard will apply.Our Core Values and Standards in ActionCognizant’s Core Values (Core Values) and Standards of Business Conduct (Standards) is our guide to meeting ourbusiness goals the “right way.” Our Core Values define the behaviors that will make us successful in themarketplace. Our Standards define what constitutes acceptable and appropriate behavior at Cognizant in particularsituations where our service levels and our reputation (or that of our clients) could be compromised.Although these Standards do not cover every possible situation, they reflect our basic philosophy of conductingbusiness lawfully and with integrity. Together, our Core Values and Standards provide a shared understanding notjust about what we do but also how we do it. They are a framework for ensuring consistent professional conductacross diverse cultures and work environments.To provide relevant examples, many of the scenarios described in the Q&A’s that follow each Standard were takenfrom real-life situations experienced by Cognizant Associates.Our Core ValuesnOpenOur environment is one of open doors and open minds. Our competitive advantage is derived from beingopen to all ideas, no matter their source, that will improve our ability to deliver excellence.nAnyone, regardless of level, who takes the initiative to present an innovative idea or express a concern willbe openly and respectfully heard.We highly encourage all managers to make themselves available to the ideas or concerns of our Associates.TransparentOur communications – positive or negative – are always proactive, direct and honest. We view thistransparency as critical to the health of our company. We practice this same transparency with our clients. Itis a critical element in achieving our status as a trusted advisor.nAs a trusted advisor, we will never hide or ignore ethical issues. We understand that bringing forward badnews early allows us to be proactive and able to address an issue before it turns into a crisis.DrivenWe expect and reward personal and team initiative. Our clients experience this as a nimble, “can do”approach focused on delivering excellence at all times, with individuals and teams taking completeownership of problems and developing creative solutions. Associates who show initiative and drive havetremendous growth opportunities.Our initiative will never come at the expense of our Core Values, Standards or our ethics.4