The EFQM Excellence Model, developed by EFQM and shown in the diagram above, is a management framework used by over 30 000 organisations in Europe and beyond. Often used as a diagnostic tool, the Model takes a holistic view to enable organisations, regardless of size or sector to:

• Assess where they are, helping them to understand their key strengths and potential gaps in performance across the 9 criteria
• Provide a common vocabulary and way of thinking about the organisation that facilitates the effective communication of ideas, both within and outside the organisation.
• Integrate existing and planned initiatives, removing duplication and identifying gaps.

The EFQM Excellence Model is used as a basis for self-assessment, an exercise in which an organisation grades itself against the 9 criteria. This exercise helps organisations to identify current strengths and areas for improvement against strategic goals. This gap analysis then facilitates definition and prioritisation of improvement plans to achieve sustainable growth and enhanced performance. Find out more about self-assessment here.

Is the Model prescriptive? 
No it is not. The EFQM Excellence Model is not a standard, it does not tell you what to do. However, several recognition schemes exist for organisations who successfully implement the Model. These recognitions are based on an external assessment against the EFQM Model. They provide you with valuable feedback on your performance and they create opportunities to benchmark against other leading organisations. More information on our Recognition and Awards can be found here.

Does the Model change? 
The world is changing, and so does the EFQM Excellence Model. We review the Model every 3 years, with a team of over 200 individuals, representing large organisations, academics, EFQM Partners, EFQM Assessors, and so on. Watch this video on the EFQM Model change in 2010.

How do I start? 
If you are interested to learn more or implement the EFQM Excellence Model, you can:

• Sign up for the “Start Simple – One Day Workshop” designed to help your management team with no previous experience of using the EFQM Excellence Model to take the first step.
• Join the EFQM Assessor Training and become an official internationally recognised EFQM Assessor .
• Visit our Publication shop .
• Or for more advice contact us via +32 2 775 3511, e-mail info@efqm.org or speak with one of our partners.