As a publications director for a medium-sized technical company, I need to know how the current publications business world functions. I want to see how my strategies compare. Also, I know that other publications managers share similar challenges and have solved some of the problems I face. Often, their solutions are innovative and transferable. Except through occasional professional meetings, there are no focused opportunities to talk with my peers and hear what they are doing.
Benchmarks provide a forum for sharing.
When JoAnn Hackos contacted me about the benchmarking series, I knew that by being a participant I could learn more about my own operation and gain insights from the efforts of others. The benchmark team members were accomplished professionals interested in the same issues and open to further discussions and sharing. Following each benchmark, I gave a copy of the benchmark report and individualized evaluation to my Vice President. The data and the narratives provided a rich source of comparative information and ideas for improved processes and solutions. I've summarized the information and presented the results to my management team and writing groups.