Übernommen von der Website des Public Sector Benchmarking Service (PSBS),
UK:
http://members.benchmarking.gov.uk/netcomm/psbssite/about_bench/whatisit.asp,
2004-01-09
There are numerous definitions of benchmarking, but essentially it involves learning, sharing information and adopting best practices to bring about step changes in performance. So, at its simplest, benchmarking means:
"Improving ourselves by learning from others".
Most organisations tailor definitions of benchmarking to suit their own strategies and objectives. Two examples are given below.
"Benchmarking is simply about making comparisons with other organisations and then learning the lessons that those comparisons throw up".
Source: The European Benchmarking Code of Conduct
"Benchmarking is the continuous process of measuring products, services and practices against the toughest competitors or those companies recognised as industry leaders (best in class)".
Source: The Xerox Corporation
For those approaching benchmarking for the first time the plethora of definitions can be confusing, so it can help to focus on the learning and sharing that goes on during the process.
In practice, benchmarking usually encompasses:
Although benchmarking involves making comparisons of performance, it is not:
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- | Benchmarking is best undertaken
in a collaborative way. |
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- | The aim is to learn about the circumstances
and processes that underpin superior performance. |
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- | Benchmarking projects may extend over a
number of months and it is vital to repeat them periodically so as not
to fall behind as the background environment changes. |
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- | In rapidly changing circumstances, good
practices become dated very quickly. Also, the fact that others are
doing things differently does not necessarily mean they are better. |
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- | Openness and honesty are vital for
successful benchmarking. |
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- | If site visits are undertaken, they should be part of a structured programme leading to thorough analysis. |