Critical Look at the Baldrige Award

Abstract

In 1987, the U.S. Congress established the Baldrige Award. Since that time, the award has triggered much interest, however, many believe it has become over-exaggerated in its importance. It is clear that no other award has attained comparable status – so much that it is being copied by other countries including Mexico.

In this issue are the pros and cons of the national award. Some noted quality Gurus have pointed to the inherent dangers of “prize fever”. Philip Crosby has said, “Like most government programs, the Baldrige will have the opposite effect to the one intended”. The most strident criticism comes from W. Edwards Deming who sees the award as a forced method of striving for goals instead of improvement.

Jerry Main agrees that there are problems. “The award isn't perfect, takes loads of time and money to apply for, and won't solve all of a company's problems. Beware of a focus on winning, instead of on quality”.

Curt Reiman, the award administrator, agrees that there are problems but industry must be clear about what is and what is not the process. He points out applicants must demonstrate that they meet certain very specific criteria set up by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.