For example, should you choose to conduct a search on the topic of turnover, you will retrieve thousands of sources. A secondary step in the research process is to network with colleagues through professional and trade associations, chambers of commerce, etc. If you have access to the Internet, consider doing an on-line search on your topic through any of the search engines. In fact, your search will lead you to find a variety of networking opportunities to web pages for professional and trade associations, and state, federal government, and global resources. The third and final step is to consider contacting organizations.
Some organizations are willing to share data and discuss their practices.
Start by developing a list of tightly focused questions for each intended contact you either read or heard about. Call the contact and arrange a mutually convenient time for a teleconference, or a site visit. A final note, a Code of Conduct is available through The International Benchmarking Clearinghouse of the American Productivity and Quality Center. The Code of Conduct offers advice on how to engage in best practices studies ethically and effectively. In the practice of benchmarking, no standard methods or criteria exist on identifying and evaluating practices as the best.