SHSD uses a formal Benchmarking Process to improve performance
and introduce innovations in learning-centered and
support processes. By comparing performance in a specific
process to a similar best-in-class process in another organization,
SHSD gains an understanding of the factors enabling a
higher degree of performance excellence. The Benchmarking
Process follows the PDSA cycle (Figure 6.1-4) and includes
four key steps. In Step 1, SHSD plans the benchmarking study,
including selecting the SHSD process to be studied; defining/
flowcharting the current state of the process; and using the PMA
Process (Step 2) to identify comparative measures of performance.
In Step 2, the district conducts research to determine
who has the best performance and to prepare for the benchmarking
session. In Step 3, data are analyzed to understand how
the benchmarked process works compared to SHSD’s process
and determine the key factors enabling the benchmark organization
to have better performance. In Step 4, the district selects
the best practices in the benchmarked process and adapts them
to fit SHSD’s culture and organizational structure.