The following is an example of guidance points behind sub-criterion 1a.

 

1a.” Leaders develop the mission, visions and values and are role models of a culture of excellence.”

 

Areas that might be examined as part of this sub-criterion in the assessment of the organisation:

o         Does the organisation have a clear mission and vision and are all employees aware of them?

o         Is the performance appraisal system geared to rewarding performance that complies with the organisation’s mission?

o         Does the senior leadership of the organisation review and improve its own effectiveness and does it take account of the future needs of the organisation? Is there, for example, a clear succession plan?

o         Does the organisation give priority and funding to improvement activities? Is the leadership involved in improvement activities?

o         Is the organisation structured to encourage empowerment through funding of training, management by objectives and so on?

o         Has the organisation’s leadership developed a clear set of ethical guidelines which is followed by the organisation in its day-to-day operations?

 

The EFQM model is not a prescriptive system. Use of these guidance points is not mandatory, nor are they exhaustive lists. When developing assessment skills one will probably identify new points specific to the needs of ones’ business.