Before any training begins, it's important to set benchmarks so you know where you started and what gains you’ve made.
What is a benchmark?
A benchmark is a snapshot of some aspect of your business at a fixed point in time that allows you to measure progress and compare results.
Why do you need benchmarks?
Without benchmarks, there is no way to confidently measure and report on the results of your workplace literacy programme.
Setting benchmarks also enables you to assess if your programme is being delivered in the most effective manner, and to make changes along the way if necessary.
Quite simply, benchmarks help you make sure you're achieving what you set out to achieve.
How to set benchmarks
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Four steps to setting benchmarks
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- Determine what you are going to measure
Take time to identify what can be improved with your workplace literacy training programme. The more specific your measurements, the more clearly you will be able to assess progress. Benchmarks need to be operational rather than strategic. For instance, you could have an objective to reduce a specific type of wastage within a particular work area. For more assistance, check out Five New Zealand Qualifications Authority questions to ask during evaluation (PDF, 152 KB).
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- Work out how to measure it
Think about how you are going to measure the business objectives you want to address with training for your employees. Be specific but not too complicated.
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- Take measurements before you start
Measure all the things you want to improve and record the measurements clearly. These measurements become the benchmarks you will use to measure progress. For more assistance, check out Measuring your programme's success (PDF, 414 KB) and Evaluation worksheet (Microsoft Word, 405 KB).
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- Repeat the same measurements
After the training is completed, measure everything in exactly the same way you did before starting the programme. This will show you the gains you have made from the training.
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Extra help
- Determine the measurements you need using our benchmark tracker.
- Work with a training provider or your in-house trainer to assess your needs, develop your benchmarks and set up your programme.
- Get input from your ITO. They may be able to advise what other employers in your industry have focused on.
- Get advice from other businesses. Read their top tips and stories.
- Sign up for regular updates, information and help.
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