Review processes for improving business excellence frameworks

Purpose – To examine the processes used by custodians of business excellence frameworks (BEFs) internationally to review and revise their frameworks, and to present the findings of a review of the design of the Australian business excellence framework (ABEF). Design/methodology/approach – A literature review, three surveys, and a series of focus groups and key informant interviews were conducted. The study involved input from 16 countries and was part of a larger study of how BEFs are designed, reviewed, promoted and deployed within and across nations. Findings – The role of stakeholders in business excellence model design and development, the processes involved in framework review and enhancement, and the frequency of minor and major review activities and who led them are presented. We found there was widespread support for the design of the ABEF amongst stakeholders. This review of the ABEF design and its appropriateness to the Australian business environment are discussed. Research limitations/implications – While the primary focus was on the Australian context, the findings draw upon a range of international sources and hence are of relevance to all BEF custodians. Practical implications – The findings from the project were used to redesign the ABEF, and are expected to help inform national business excellence strategies worldwide. Originality/value – The paper updates the current situation regarding the review of BE frameworks in 16 countries, with a focus on Australia.