The performance excellence process facilitates self-evaluation and improvement of current processes by identifying strengths and opportunities for improvement within your organization. The evaluation criteria for this process is the same as the Baldrige National Quality Program Criteria for Performance Excellence (Baldrige Criteria), using seven categories:Leadership; Strategic Planning; Customer and market Focus; Measurement, Analysis, and knowledge Management; Human Resource Focus; Process Management; and Business Results.

The Criteria have been used for the past 15 years by thousands of organizations across the US to stay abreast of competition and improve performance. The IRPE process will help your organization, no matter what type or size, implement an integrated approach to organizational performance excellence that results in
(1) delivery of ever-improving value to customers, contributing to marketplace success;
(2) improvement of overall organizational effectiveness and capabilities; and
(3) organizational and personal learning.

Award winning applicants must provide evidence of systematic processes and continuous improvements, which are critical for sustained success.

Excellence Conference and Celebration May 3, 2012 We are now accepting session proposals for this event.  Please fill out the Call for Sessions document by Oct. 31 to be considered.
Application Writing for Baldrige Criteria Based Programs Nov. 17-18 The Baldrige framework is a proven set of criteria that can be used for multiple purposes.  An application for the national Baldrige Award, the Iowa Recognition for Performance Excellence, or AQIP accreditation are just a few examples. This one and a half day class will focus on the tools and techniques your organization can use to write an application.
Leading the Performance Excellence Journey Here is your chance to take the mystery out of using th Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence to improve your organization. This class will help you understand how these criteria can help address the unique challenges in your organization – healthcare, education, or business.
Creating a Balanced Scorecard What an organization measures is a key communication tool for the organization’s direction. A Balanced Scorecard can bring alignment and clarity to the organization. Without it, an organization can see lack of accountability and confusion.
Organizational Self Assessment This one-day class will provide your organization with the skills, tools, and techniques to perform an internal assessment using the Baldrige Criteria as an assessment framework. Participants will learn to use the Iowa Quality Center/Langford International, Baldrige "Capacity Matrix" to assess their organization and develop an action plan for improvement.