The foundation for the ILPEx Award Program is the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. Using questions posed in the Criteria, an organization creates a self-assessment that is then analyzed by a team of ILPEx Examiners. The Panel of Judges reviews the work of the Examiners and determines the award recognition level. A comprehensive feedback report is provided which details your organization’s strengths and opportunities for improvement. Organizations use this low-cost consultation as a key input to strategic planning, with a third parties analysis
Applying for an Illinois Performance Excellence award or recognition is an effective way to energize employees, increase the focus on business results and look at your organization from a system perspective. The ILPEX Award program is open to companies and organizations throughout Illinois (out-of-state organizations may also be eligible). Whether the organization is large or small, established or start-up, the program scales to fit your organization’s unique profile.
Options for Self-Assessment
An organization first determines which self-assessment tool to use, depending on the recognition or ward level sought, and its knowledge of the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence: 1) completion of the 5-page Organizational Profile; or, 2) completion of the 5-page Organizational Profile and 50-page Multiple Assessment.
Recognition level is:
- Level 1 Interest in Excellence Recognition (beginner level)
- Completion of an Organizational Profile
The three Award Levels for organization with more exposure to the Baldrige Criteria are:
- Commitment to Excellence – Bronze Award (intermediate level)
- Progress Toward Excellence – Silver Award (advanced level)
- Achievement of Excellence – Gold Award (highest level)
The Award Process
After analyzing your self-assessment, Examiners will make a site visit to your workplace to gain a thorough understanding of your organization. Based on its finding, the Examiner team prepares a detailed feedback report and the Lead Examiner presents findings to the Panel of Judges who determine the award levels. All applicant organizations are recognized at the Recognition Ceremony Dinner held in January. During the banquet, each ILPEx applicant receives recognition based on its level of achievement. For employees of organizations that participate in the application process, the banquet is a great celebration, confirming the organization’s commitment to improving performance and results. Examiners are also recognized by the applicants and banquet attendees for their extensive review time, analysis and expertise to provide meaningful feedback reports.
Ready to Apply?
Go to the Applicant Page for the step-by-step to download applications and instructions.
