Leadership System

The term “leadership system” refers to how leadership is exercised, formally and informally, throughout the organization—the basis for and the way key decisions are made, communicated, and carried out. It includes structures and mechanisms for decision making; selection and development of leaders and managers; and reinforcement of values, ethical behavior, directions, and performance expectations.

An effective leadership system respects the capabilities and requirements of employees and other stakeholders, and it sets high expectations for performance and performance improvement. It builds loyalties and teamwork based on the organization’s vision and values and the pursuit of shared goals. It encourages and supports initiative and appropriate risk taking, subordinates organization structure to purpose and function, and avoids chains of command that require long decision paths. An effective leadership system includes mechanisms for the leaders to conduct self-examination, receive feedback, and improve.

How can the Baldrige definition for leadership system be improved?

Consider including management of suppliers, partners, and collaborators since it is not uncommon for 50% or more of an organization's total expenses (e.g., medicines, materials, equipment, design, computer hardware and software, transportation, contract work, facilities construction and maintenance, etc.) to go to external organizations.

Go to Baldrige Application Information Capture and Response Templates (click to access):

• Leadership Communication Strategy

• Organizational Values, Mission, Vision and Purpose

• Strategic Challenges

• Leadership-Driven Improvement Chronology

• Organizational Structure

• Competitive Environment

• Regulatory Environment and Requirements

• Ethics and Governance Monitoring Processes

• Stakeholder Groups

• Employee Demographics

• Key Communities Supported

• Societal Responsibility Activities

• Community Support Activities

• Community Improvement Strategy

Go to related Baldrige Best Practices (click to access):

• Total Leadership Management System

• Leadership Process

• Leadership Model Graphic

• Effective Communication

• Governance System

• Fiscal Accountability and Transparency

• Assets Management

• Succession Planning

• Priority Determination and Decision Making

• Organization Performance Management

• Total Baldrige Management System

The term "leadership system" appears in the Baldrige Criteria in the following locations:

• Item 1.1. Area 1.1a(1)

• Item 1.2, Area 1.2a(2)

• Item 7.6