September 30 2018
By: Terry L. Mathis
ProAct Safety recently completed a benchmarking study for a client who is quickly moving into the space of data analytics. Part of their strategy is to find out what others are doing and whether or not there are lessons to be learned from them. Benchmarking is a practice that has had a wide range of success across industries depending on how similar the different participants are and the methodologies used for the benchmarks.
Copying a successful safety initiative is not a sure formula for success. Organizational and cultural differences must also be considered and fitting the initiative to these realities is a must. Unfortunately, many participants in benchmarking studies have simply copied the best and hoped for great results. The better approach is to affirm which of your practices are working and looking for better ways to approach those that are not working well. This form of cherry-picking best practices and matching your overall programs to your culture and logistics has proven to be the most effective way to reach safety excellence using benchmarking.
Terry Mathis, Founder and retired CEO of ProAct Safety, has served as a consultant and advisor for top organizations the world over. A respected strategist and thought leader, Terry has authored five books, numerous articles, videos and blogs, and is known for his dynamic and engaging presentations. EHS Today has named him one of the '50 People Who Most Influenced EHS' four consecutive times. Business leaders and safety professionals seek Terry's practical insight and unique ability to introduce new perspectives that lead to real change.
