Flexible benchmarking: a new reference model

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe and propose a new way to do benchmarking. It describes an explanatory case study whereby data are collected through an internet benchmarking system with multi-criteria performance. Design/methodology/approach – The research methodology was to conduct a literature review on international journals about evolution, typology and trends of benchmarking. Through a third year case study of Internet Benchmarking and Monitoring System of Productive Arrangements System the authors describe and propose a flexible benchmarking model. Findings – The paper provides empirical insights about a new model of flexible benchmarking taking into account different demands, whereby partners’ data are collected and processed according to their needs. Research limitations/implications – For monitoring and trending analysis more data and time is needed. These three-year applications show that it takes a long time to build a database that can be meaningful for benchmarking and monitoring purposes management. It also requires management maturity, performance system and finally procedures to invite companies to collect and input online data. Practical implications – The paper describes a flexible benchmarking, detailing its features in the form of a case study. The gap analysis shows the individual and collective gaps and requirements. Examples of practical use and reports generated “online” are presented. Originality/value – The paper presents a new potential for the use of benchmarking tools. It is expected to contribute to the academic area, describing ways to achieve greater potential in the use of benchmarking tools, proposing a new way to do benchmarking.