Benchmarking in healthcare: selecting and working with partners

Area of Science:

• Business Strategy
• Organizational Management

Background:

• Benchmarking is a strategic process for improving performance by learning from others.
• Effective partner selection is critical for successful benchmarking initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the systematic process for selecting a benchmarking partner.
• To identify key information sources and preparatory steps for partner engagement.

Main Methods:

• Information gathering from diverse sources (publications, analysts, associations, employees).
• Development of a comprehensive project plan detailing organization, purpose, subject, and benefits.
• Data collection and analysis using methods like research, surveys, site visits, and consultants.

Main Results:

• A structured approach to partner identification and selection is essential.
• Thorough preparation, including a project plan and ethical considerations, facilitates successful benchmarking.
• Multiple data gathering and analysis methods can be employed.

Conclusions:

• Careful partner selection and preparation are fundamental to effective benchmarking.
• Adherence to ethical guidelines, such as those from the International Benchmarking Clearinghouse, is vital when sharing data with competitors.