Baldrige Assessments

Tips for A Successful Assessment

Assessments using Baldrige are a valuable tool for any organization that wishes to improve. However, there are pitfalls and many obvious, 'common sense' techniques simply don't work in practice. Here is a list of tips that will help you stay on track.

1. Conduct an assessment before trying to decide what needs to be improved
2. Understand the essential differences between awards programs and assessments
3. Match the thoroughness of the assessment to the maturity of your organization
4. Make a conscious decision whether to write an application report
5. Always orient the senior leaders and obtain their informed commitment before starting
6. Keep the training focused on those who really need it first
7. Make the process as streamlined and efficient as possible
8. Use a single, integrated assessment team
9. Learn how to tailor the questions for each interview
10. Use surveys to complement face-to-face discussion
11. Keep the scores in perspective
12. Differentiate the assessment process from a compliance audit
13. Define clearly the steps that will lead to an improvement plan
14. Use expert help to ensure that the improvement plans are successful
15. Plan to repeat the assessment process periodically