Close to 1.7 million copies of the award's Criteria for Performance Excellence have been distributed worldwide, while 2,000 Baldrige information seekers visit the program's Web site each day. We don't have time, and because the feedback isn't prescriptive, we won't know what actions to take to improve. Past award recipients and applicants, however, beg to differ. The Baldrige Award will continue to evolve as quality practices take on the innovative stamp of best-practice companies. The following answers to frequently asked questions will help companies understand the award and application process as they pursue performance excellence via the Baldrige criteria.
Many organizations believe that the application process itself is beneficial.
Every applicant receives an extensive feedback report highlighting strengths and opportunities for improvement based on an independent assessment made by recognized experts. Award applicants and recipients report improved alignment in their companies' plans and processes, as well as improved communication and employee morale, after applying for the award. For the application fee, companies receive at least 300 hours of review by a minimum of 10 business and quality experts. Fees for site visits are extra. Yes, if the company intends to act on the knowledge gained to improve.