Benchmarking gets the government seal of approval

So-called e-Minister Patricia Hewett has launched a benchmarking package aimed at helping companies to improve competitive performance. The main target is SMEs - small and medium size enterprises - on the assumption that large organisations are already experienced with the process.

The package comes in two parts. An online service at www.benchmarkindex.com, though clearly suffering some initial teething problems, promises a quick check against 23 performance indicators based on data from 2000 companies. There are also explanations of benchmarking processes and benefits, as well as links to other UK and international sites.

Also available is the Applied Benchmarking CD-ROM, giving advice on best practice approaches, implementation and case studies.

Information about purchasing the CD-ROM is available at www.connectbestpractice.com.

Elliott Chase