Baldrige: Core Values

The Baldrige Criteria are built upon the following set of interrelated Core Values and Concepts:

Click on any Core Value below to Hyper-Link to its description and related integration linkages

These values and concepts are described in detail when you click on them above They are embedded beliefs and behaviors found in high-performing organizations. They are the foundation for integrating key business requirements within a results-oriented framework that creates a basis for action and feedback.

Core Values

Definition

Baldrige core values are the philosophical underpinning or underlying principles for the Criteria, and are specific to each Award sector—business, education, and health care. They are embedded in the Criteria requirements.

Where to look for core values

n on page one of each Criteria booklet

n reflected in an organization's performance excellence system

Uses

n to obtain a high-level view of the underlying principles common to high performing organizations within a particular sector

n to use as an organizational framework for developing key themes comments

Do not use

n as an independent assessment dimension—in other words, do not evaluate applicants against the core values

Example of how to use a core value

n The team structure supports the applicant's focus on organizational and personal learning and demonstrates the high value it places on employees and partners.

This example illustrates the way the organization operates in a way that reflects Baldrige core values, thus it is a good example of how to use core values in organizing and constructing a key theme.

Example of how not to use a core value

n Senior leaders may lack visionary leadership in the way they set expectations and endeavor to stimulate innovation among employees.

This is not an appropriate example for using core values because in this instance the core value is being used as an independent assessment dimension.