Benchmarking

6. Where to Get Help

6.1 You may want to involve a consultant.

Although many benchmarking studies are conducted without external help, a consultant can help with:

• Establishing internal data and organisational processes.An external consultant may find it easier to be objective about your business.
• Identifying and contacting benchmarking partners.
• Project management.
• Overcoming resistance to change.

6.2 Business Links can provide help and information.

• Most Business Links offer a benchmark service, the UK Benchmarking Index, which provides a health check of your organisation.It can also highlight where benchmarking activity would be most beneficial to your business.
• Business Advisers are trained to take you through the process.

6.3 Other sources of information and help include:

• Your trade association (020 7395 8283).
• The Benchmark Index (08700 111143)
• The Best Practice Club (0800 435399).