Benchmarking Basics

Last updated:

May 20, 2026

Authored By:

APQC

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This collection contains the main items you will need to start a benchmarking initiative, including templates, tools, a glossary, APQC's Process Classification Framework, APQC's Benchmarking Code of Conduct, and other articles that explain the steps required for successful benchmarking.

Type:

Collections

Topics:

Benchmarking, Process and Performance Management, Benchmarking

Included in this Collection

What is Benchmarking?

APQC's Benchmarking Methodology

Benchmarking Fundamentals

Benchmarking: Quick Reference Guide

Inside APQC's Benchmarking Methodology: Plan Phase

Inside APQC's Benchmarking Methodology: Collect Phase

Inside APQC's Benchmarking Methodology: Analyze Phase

Inside APQC's Benchmarking Methodology: Adapt Phase

Benchmarking Dos and Don'ts

Common Benchmarking Challenges and Tips to Address Them

10 Steps to Design and Launch a Great Survey

A Guide to Conducting Primary Research for Benchmarking

APQC's Benchmarking Alignment Worksheet

APQC's Benchmarking Alignment Worksheet (Excel Template)

APQC's Benchmarking Project Plan Template

Benchmarking and Improvement Tools

Benchmarking Code of Conduct

Benchmarking Maturity Matrix

Benchmarking Partner Selection Tool

Benchmarking Scope Document Template

Benchmarking Site Visit Checklist

Guidelines for Survey Design

How to Find and Work with Trusted Benchmarking Partners

Normalizing Benchmarking Data

Organizational Readiness Assessment for Benchmarking (Excel Template)

Roles and Responsibilities of Benchmarking Team Members

Scoping a Benchmarking Study

Six Steps to Achieve Strategic Goals Through Benchmarking

Types of Benchmarking

In-Person Site Visit Guide: Template

Virtual Site Visit Guide: Template

APQC Process Classification Framework (PCF) - Cross Industry - Excel Version 7.2.1